The 2024 MotoGP season continues to deliver heart-pounding action and unpredictable results. Last weekend’s French Grand Prix saw a thrilling battle between Jorge Martin, Francesco Bagnaia, and a resurgent Marc Marquez. Martin held his nerve to secure victory despite immense pressure, extending his championship lead to 38 points over Bagnaia. Marquez’s stunning ride from 13th to 2nd further proved the eight-time world champion is back to his brilliant best.
As the series heads to Barcelona for the Catalan Grand Prix, the stakes are higher than ever. Will Martin further solidify his grip on the title race? Can Bagnaia bounce back and close the gap? Might Marquez secure his first win of 2024 at a track he’s historically dominated? Let’s dive into the data, odds and expert analysis to find out.
The MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix takes place this weekend, May 24-26, at the iconic Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The 4.7 km track features a mix of fast straights, technical sections and elevation changes that challenge riders. Qualifying begins Saturday at 1:50am PDT with the race on Sunday at 5:00am PDT. For a detailed view of the weekend’s events, refer to the official schedule.
For enthusiasts who can’t be at the venue in person, be sure to check the official MotoGP website for viewing options. (Note: While live broadcasts might be limited in certain regions, including the US, you can still catch comprehensive race highlights and updates on the website!) If betting is on your agenda, don’t forget to follow the live action and keep an eye on NXTbets for updates on odds and prices.
Odds Subject to Change
Please note, the odds provided herein reflect the raw probability odds for this analysis and are based on the information available at the time of publishing. Different sportsbooks may adjust these odds based on market conditions, bettor behaviors, and other factors that could influence the betting landscape. For a deeper understanding of why odds for alternative sports betting change and how it might affect your betting strategy, we encourage you to read our detailed article:Why Do Alternative Sports Betting Odds Change?. Make informed decisions and always check the latest odds with your sportsbook before placing bets.
Best Bets and Picks for the French Grand Prix
Top Picks and Bets
Rider
Event Winner
Payout on $20
Podium
Payout on $20
Jorge Martin
+175
$55.00
-286
$26.99
Francesco Bagnaia
+250
$70.00
-225
$28.89
Marc Marquez
+450
$110.00
-118
$36.95
Jorge Martin (+175 Event Winner, -286 Podium): The rising MotoGP sensation has been tearing it up this season, showcasing blistering speed, tactical genius, and ice-cold composure. His scintillating rides, like the masterclass performance to claim his third win amid intense pressure in France, have marked Martin as the man to beat heading into Barcelona. Shrugging off relentless attacks from rivals like Bagnaia and late charges from Márquez, the Pramac Ducati rider has proven he can deliver under the most intense circumstances. Martin rolls into Barcelona with this scorching form, making him the overwhelming favorite across all sessions as he looks to tighten his grip on the championship lead. Adding fuel to the fire, the #89 has a podium in 2023 and a fourth-place result in 2022 at the Catalan circuit, evidence that he knows how to get the job done here. With red-hot current form and a proven track record in Barcelona, Martin shapes up as an exceptional bet to take the win this weekend.
Francesco Bagnaia (+250 Event Winner, -225 Podium): The reigning champion heads to Barcelona with a point to prove after narrowly missing out on victory in France. Bagnaia’s performance at Le Mans, where he led for 20 laps and pushed Martin to the absolute limit, underscored his never-say-die attitude and relentless consistency. The Ducati rider’s record at the Catalan GP is exceptional, with three podium finishes in the last four years, including a dominant win in 2022 where he showcased his unrivaled late-braking prowess. Bagnaia’s ability to extract the maximum from the Ducati GP24, particularly in the hard-braking zones and fast direction changes that characterize the Barcelona layout, will be crucial. While the 38-point deficit to Martin looms large, Bagnaia’s rock-solid consistency, mental fortitude, and sublime tire management skills make him a constant threat to the championship leader. Expect Pecco to be in the hunt for pole and the race win, as he aims to reignite his title defense and rekindle his rivalry with the in-form Martin.
Marc Márquez (+450 Event Winner, -118 Podium): The eight-time world champion’s resurgence continued apace in France, as he claimed his third consecutive podium finish with a brilliant second place. Márquez’s performance at Le Mans, where he scythed through the field from 13th on the grid and executed a stunning last-lap overtake on Bagnaia, evoked memories of his dominant years and served notice that the “Marquez Magic” is well and truly back. With a record-breaking six victories at the Catalan GP and a seamless click between his aggressive riding style and the demands of the Barcelona circuit, the eight-time world champion is a genuine contender for victory and a significant threat to the championship leaders.
Outsider Picks
Rider
Event Winner
Payout on $20
Podium
Payout on $20
Maverick Vinales
+500
$120.00
+100
$40.00
Aleix Espargaro
+800
$180.00
+150
$50.00
Enea Bastianini
+1800
$380.00
+400
$100.00
Maverick Viñales (+500 Event Winner, +100 Podium): Despite a subdued showing in France, Viñales’ smooth riding style, corner speed mastery, and tire conservation skills make him a serious podium contender in Barcelona. With multiple rostrum finishes at the Circuit de Catalunya, including a commanding victory in 2017, the Aprilia rider is an attractive proposition for bettors seeking value beyond the top three favorites.
Aleix Espargaró (+800 Event Winner, +150 Podium): The home hero will be chomping at the bit to repeat his stunning 2023 Catalan GP victory in front of his adoring fans. Espargaró’s aggressive cornering technique, late-braking expertise, and ability to exploit the RS-GP’s superior aerodynamics and braking stability make him a serious podium threat on the hard-braking Barcelona layout. At odds of +800 for the win and +150 for a podium, the Aprilia rider offers excellent value for bettors.
Enea Bastianini (+1800 Event Winner, +400 Podium): Bastianini’s impressive fourth-place finish in France, despite serving a long-lap penalty, underscored his growing confidence on the factory Ducati and his potential to consistently challenge for podiums. With a solid record at the Catalan GP, including a podium finish in the Moto2 class and a top-six result in his rookie MotoGP season, the Beast’s aggressive style, late-braking prowess, and intelligent tire management make him an intriguing long-shot option for risk-tolerant bettors.
Expert Pick for the French Grand Prix
Our money is on Jorge Martin to extend his championship lead with a victory in Barcelona. While we expect fierce challenges from the likes of Bagnaia, Márquez, and the Aprilia duo of Espargaró and Viñales, Martin’s unparalleled ability to string together consistently fast laps and his cool-headed approach under pressure give him the edge. A win for the #89 would not only bolster his title credentials but also send a resounding message to his rivals that he is the force to be reckoned with in 2024.
MotoGP Championship Futures Update
Rider
Champion Odds
Payout on $20
Jorge Martin
-125
$36.00
Marc Marquez
+250
$70.00
Francesco Bagnaia
+260
$72.00
Enea Bastianini
+1000
$220.00
Maverick Vinales
+1600
$340.00
As the season approaches its midpoint, the championship futures market is heating up, reflecting the shifting momentum and the emergence of new title contenders. Despite his commanding lead, Jorge Martin‘s odds of -125 still offer value for bettors confident in the Spaniard’s ability to maintain his form and consistency. Marc Márquez‘s resurgence sees him priced at an attractive +250, reflecting his growing momentum, undeniable class, and peerless record at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Francesco Bagnaia, the reigning champion, finds himself at +260, reflecting the significant ground he needs to make up to catch Martin, but his consistency and proven ability to mount a second-half charge make him an enticing option. Enea Bastianini (+1000) and Maverick Viñales (+1600) remain intriguing long-shot options for risk-tolerant bettors, with both riders showing flashes of speed and the potential for a surprise championship challenge.
Where to Bet on the 2024 MotoGP French Grand Prix
Gear up for the 2024 MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix! Get the latest odds and exclusive offers at our partnered sportsbooks to place your bets. Don’t forget to delve into NXTbets’ official MotoGP Betting Guidefor comprehensive insights and tips.
The French Grand Prix promises to be a critical juncture in the 2024 MotoGP championship. With the top riders separated by the smallest of margins, a strong result in Le Mans could provide a springboard for a title challenge. Can Bagnaia double down on his Jerez triumph, or will Martín and Márquez strike back? Will the likes of Viñales, Acosta, and Bastianini spring a surprise? Tune in this weekend to find out, and remember, in the unpredictable world of MotoGP, fortune favors the brave.
21+ Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
James Deane is ready to release the clutch pedal and start the 2025 season in Long Beach California this weekend. The Irishman leads the Formula Drift The Streets of Long Beach pre-event odds as he goes in search of his title defense, both in the series and at the Californian venue. Looking to elevate …
KTM has unveiled its 2026 MotoGP liveries and confirmed Red Bull title backing for both its factory team and Tech3 satellite outfit, while keeping the factory pairing of Pedro Acosta and Brad Binder and retaining Maverick Viñales and Enea Bastianini at Tech3.
Tech3 is under new ownership led by Guenther Steiner, with Richard Coleman appointed team boss. KTM also detailed key crew moves for 2026. Enea Bastianini will work with Andrés Madrid, Phil Marron will move into Brad Binder’s garage, and former Bastianini crew chief Alberto Giribuola has switched to Pramac.
The announcement followed a financially destabilising winter for KTM’s 2025 programme, which influenced personnel decisions and the early confirmations of lineups.
Looking back at 2025, KTM finished third in the Constructors’ standings and its factory entry was fourth in the Teams’ standings, becoming the highest-ranked non‑Ducati-powered team after overtaking Aprilia. Pedro Acosta emerged as the squad’s on-track leader, adopted setup elements from Maverick Viñales, took KTM’s first official podium of the year at Brno, and closed the year fourth in the world championship. He described the season as “a wasted year” despite personal progress. Brad Binder finished 11th overall without a podium. Tech3 endured a turbulent season. Viñales had a strong result in Qatar, chalked off for a tyre-pressure infringement, and was sidelined time with a serious shoulder injury at Sachsenring. Enea Bastianini scored a Grand Prix and Sprint podium midseason but faded after losing Giribuola, and substitute Pol Espargaró provided stability with four top-10s in five starts.
Contract positions and longer-term planning remain unresolved. Media reports say all four riders are out of contract at the end of the season, and Acosta has been linked with a potential move to a Ducati-run team. Coverage described KTM as weighing roster choices while preparing for the 2027 regulations and surveying the wider MotoGP market for options rather than relying on an obvious in-house successor. Some outlets named long-shot possibilities such as Francesco Bagnaia and Fabio Quartararo, but presented those as unlikely.
Alex Marquez was handed a double long-lap penalty for Sunday’s Japanese Grand Prix at Motegi after causing a multi-rider crash on the opening lap of the sprint. FIM stewards said the Turn 3 incident was a first-lap, multiple-rider dangerous situation and said the double long-lap penalty was the appropriate punishment for Marquez’s first offense of the season. He kept fifth on the grid for Sunday’s race despite the penalty.
The crash unfolded as Marquez attacked Fabio Di Giannantonio for sixth place. Pedro Acosta had been forced wide by Enea Bastianini, and Marquez lost the front while trying to slow down. He clipped Acosta and then collected Di Giannantonio, sending all three riders down and ending the races of Acosta and Di Giannantonio in the sprint.
Marc Marquez won the sprint at Motegi, leading every lap and beating title rival Jorge Martin by 2.466 seconds. Martin and Enea Bastianini were later penalized for exceeding track limits, which promoted Diogo Moreira to second, his best MotoGP result. Marc Marquez’s win also cut Martin’s championship lead before Sunday’s grand prix.
MotoGP officials confirmed a major calendar overhaul as Liberty Media, MotoGP’s new owners, will replace Phillip Island with a planned Adelaide circuit as part of a push for more city-center events. Liberty announced Phillip Island will no longer host the Australian Grand Prix, though reports differ on the timing — the announcement cites a change “from 2027,” while some reports say Phillip Island was removed from the 2026 calendar. Some outlets suggested Adelaide could take the season-finale slot while Valencia moves into the middle of the season.
The move provoked widespread criticism from riders, commentators and fans; commentator Keith Huewen called the loss “tragic.” Organizers acknowledged the decision has created uncertainty for local communities and supporters.
Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta defended the overhaul on safety grounds, saying “safety comes first,” and citing an increased number of accidents at Phillip Island and persistent wind and rain concerns. He said safety — not location alone — will determine which venues remain on the calendar, warning that Madrid’s IFEMA layout lacked required safety conditions and that Suzuka, while “a beautiful circuit,” could not remain under current safety standards. Organizers and circuit designer Jarno Zaffelli described the planned Adelaide layout as urban but not a true street circuit: Ezpeleta called it a “safe, non-street race,” and Zaffelli said it would not be a “true street circuit.” Liberty Media has signaled further calendar changes as it modernizes and globalizes MotoGP’s schedule, identifying at least one other unnamed circuit for removal; the dispute frames a broader clash between a push for more city-center events (and some street-style proposals) and defenders of traditional high-speed venues, with venue design and safety at the center of the debate.
Best Bets: 2024 MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix Pre-Event Odds Analysis
The 2024 MotoGP season continues to deliver heart-pounding action and unpredictable results. Last weekend’s French Grand Prix saw a thrilling battle between Jorge Martin, Francesco Bagnaia, and a resurgent Marc Marquez. Martin held his nerve to secure victory despite immense pressure, extending his championship lead to 38 points over Bagnaia. Marquez’s stunning ride from 13th to 2nd further proved the eight-time world champion is back to his brilliant best.
As the series heads to Barcelona for the Catalan Grand Prix, the stakes are higher than ever. Will Martin further solidify his grip on the title race? Can Bagnaia bounce back and close the gap? Might Marquez secure his first win of 2024 at a track he’s historically dominated? Let’s dive into the data, odds and expert analysis to find out.
Place your wagers for the Catalan Grand Prix at our partner sportsbooks.
Schedule and How to Watch the Catalan Grand Prix
The MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix takes place this weekend, May 24-26, at the iconic Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The 4.7 km track features a mix of fast straights, technical sections and elevation changes that challenge riders. Qualifying begins Saturday at 1:50am PDT with the race on Sunday at 5:00am PDT. For a detailed view of the weekend’s events, refer to the official schedule.
For enthusiasts who can’t be at the venue in person, be sure to check the official MotoGP website for viewing options. (Note: While live broadcasts might be limited in certain regions, including the US, you can still catch comprehensive race highlights and updates on the website!) If betting is on your agenda, don’t forget to follow the live action and keep an eye on NXTbets for updates on odds and prices.
Odds Subject to Change
Please note, the odds provided herein reflect the raw probability odds for this analysis and are based on the information available at the time of publishing. Different sportsbooks may adjust these odds based on market conditions, bettor behaviors, and other factors that could influence the betting landscape. For a deeper understanding of why odds for alternative sports betting change and how it might affect your betting strategy, we encourage you to read our detailed article: Why Do Alternative Sports Betting Odds Change?. Make informed decisions and always check the latest odds with your sportsbook before placing bets.
Best Bets and Picks for the French Grand Prix
Top Picks and Bets
Rider
Event Winner
Payout on $20
Podium
Payout on $20
Jorge Martin
+175
$55.00
-286
$26.99
Francesco Bagnaia
+250
$70.00
-225
$28.89
Marc Marquez
+450
$110.00
-118
$36.95
Jorge Martin (+175 Event Winner, -286 Podium): The rising MotoGP sensation has been tearing it up this season, showcasing blistering speed, tactical genius, and ice-cold composure. His scintillating rides, like the masterclass performance to claim his third win amid intense pressure in France, have marked Martin as the man to beat heading into Barcelona. Shrugging off relentless attacks from rivals like Bagnaia and late charges from Márquez, the Pramac Ducati rider has proven he can deliver under the most intense circumstances. Martin rolls into Barcelona with this scorching form, making him the overwhelming favorite across all sessions as he looks to tighten his grip on the championship lead. Adding fuel to the fire, the #89 has a podium in 2023 and a fourth-place result in 2022 at the Catalan circuit, evidence that he knows how to get the job done here. With red-hot current form and a proven track record in Barcelona, Martin shapes up as an exceptional bet to take the win this weekend.
Francesco Bagnaia (+250 Event Winner, -225 Podium): The reigning champion heads to Barcelona with a point to prove after narrowly missing out on victory in France. Bagnaia’s performance at Le Mans, where he led for 20 laps and pushed Martin to the absolute limit, underscored his never-say-die attitude and relentless consistency. The Ducati rider’s record at the Catalan GP is exceptional, with three podium finishes in the last four years, including a dominant win in 2022 where he showcased his unrivaled late-braking prowess. Bagnaia’s ability to extract the maximum from the Ducati GP24, particularly in the hard-braking zones and fast direction changes that characterize the Barcelona layout, will be crucial. While the 38-point deficit to Martin looms large, Bagnaia’s rock-solid consistency, mental fortitude, and sublime tire management skills make him a constant threat to the championship leader. Expect Pecco to be in the hunt for pole and the race win, as he aims to reignite his title defense and rekindle his rivalry with the in-form Martin.
Marc Márquez (+450 Event Winner, -118 Podium): The eight-time world champion’s resurgence continued apace in France, as he claimed his third consecutive podium finish with a brilliant second place. Márquez’s performance at Le Mans, where he scythed through the field from 13th on the grid and executed a stunning last-lap overtake on Bagnaia, evoked memories of his dominant years and served notice that the “Marquez Magic” is well and truly back. With a record-breaking six victories at the Catalan GP and a seamless click between his aggressive riding style and the demands of the Barcelona circuit, the eight-time world champion is a genuine contender for victory and a significant threat to the championship leaders.
Outsider Picks
Rider
Event Winner
Payout on $20
Podium
Payout on $20
Maverick Vinales
+500
$120.00
+100
$40.00
Aleix Espargaro
+800
$180.00
+150
$50.00
Enea Bastianini
+1800
$380.00
+400
$100.00
Maverick Viñales (+500 Event Winner, +100 Podium): Despite a subdued showing in France, Viñales’ smooth riding style, corner speed mastery, and tire conservation skills make him a serious podium contender in Barcelona. With multiple rostrum finishes at the Circuit de Catalunya, including a commanding victory in 2017, the Aprilia rider is an attractive proposition for bettors seeking value beyond the top three favorites.
Aleix Espargaró (+800 Event Winner, +150 Podium): The home hero will be chomping at the bit to repeat his stunning 2023 Catalan GP victory in front of his adoring fans. Espargaró’s aggressive cornering technique, late-braking expertise, and ability to exploit the RS-GP’s superior aerodynamics and braking stability make him a serious podium threat on the hard-braking Barcelona layout. At odds of +800 for the win and +150 for a podium, the Aprilia rider offers excellent value for bettors.
Enea Bastianini (+1800 Event Winner, +400 Podium): Bastianini’s impressive fourth-place finish in France, despite serving a long-lap penalty, underscored his growing confidence on the factory Ducati and his potential to consistently challenge for podiums. With a solid record at the Catalan GP, including a podium finish in the Moto2 class and a top-six result in his rookie MotoGP season, the Beast’s aggressive style, late-braking prowess, and intelligent tire management make him an intriguing long-shot option for risk-tolerant bettors.
Expert Pick for the French Grand Prix
Our money is on Jorge Martin to extend his championship lead with a victory in Barcelona. While we expect fierce challenges from the likes of Bagnaia, Márquez, and the Aprilia duo of Espargaró and Viñales, Martin’s unparalleled ability to string together consistently fast laps and his cool-headed approach under pressure give him the edge. A win for the #89 would not only bolster his title credentials but also send a resounding message to his rivals that he is the force to be reckoned with in 2024.
MotoGP Championship Futures Update
Rider
Champion Odds
Payout on $20
Jorge Martin
-125
$36.00
Marc Marquez
+250
$70.00
Francesco Bagnaia
+260
$72.00
Enea Bastianini
+1000
$220.00
Maverick Vinales
+1600
$340.00
As the season approaches its midpoint, the championship futures market is heating up, reflecting the shifting momentum and the emergence of new title contenders. Despite his commanding lead, Jorge Martin‘s odds of -125 still offer value for bettors confident in the Spaniard’s ability to maintain his form and consistency. Marc Márquez‘s resurgence sees him priced at an attractive +250, reflecting his growing momentum, undeniable class, and peerless record at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Francesco Bagnaia, the reigning champion, finds himself at +260, reflecting the significant ground he needs to make up to catch Martin, but his consistency and proven ability to mount a second-half charge make him an enticing option. Enea Bastianini (+1000) and Maverick Viñales (+1600) remain intriguing long-shot options for risk-tolerant bettors, with both riders showing flashes of speed and the potential for a surprise championship challenge.
Where to Bet on the 2024 MotoGP French Grand Prix
Gear up for the 2024 MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix! Get the latest odds and exclusive offers at our partnered sportsbooks to place your bets. Don’t forget to delve into NXTbets’ official MotoGP Betting Guide for comprehensive insights and tips.
The French Grand Prix promises to be a critical juncture in the 2024 MotoGP championship. With the top riders separated by the smallest of margins, a strong result in Le Mans could provide a springboard for a title challenge. Can Bagnaia double down on his Jerez triumph, or will Martín and Márquez strike back? Will the likes of Viñales, Acosta, and Bastianini spring a surprise? Tune in this weekend to find out, and remember, in the unpredictable world of MotoGP, fortune favors the brave.
21+ Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
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Best Bets: Formula Drift The Streets of Long Beach Pre-Event Odds Analysis
James Deane is ready to release the clutch pedal and start the 2025 season in Long Beach California this weekend. The Irishman leads the Formula Drift The Streets of Long Beach pre-event odds as he goes in search of his title defense, both in the series and at the Californian venue. Looking to elevate …
KTM Secures Red Bull Backing; Steiner-Led Tech3 Reboot
KTM has unveiled its 2026 MotoGP liveries and confirmed Red Bull title backing for both its factory team and Tech3 satellite outfit, while keeping the factory pairing of Pedro Acosta and Brad Binder and retaining Maverick Viñales and Enea Bastianini at Tech3.
Tech3 is under new ownership led by Guenther Steiner, with Richard Coleman appointed team boss. KTM also detailed key crew moves for 2026. Enea Bastianini will work with Andrés Madrid, Phil Marron will move into Brad Binder’s garage, and former Bastianini crew chief Alberto Giribuola has switched to Pramac.
The announcement followed a financially destabilising winter for KTM’s 2025 programme, which influenced personnel decisions and the early confirmations of lineups.
Looking back at 2025, KTM finished third in the Constructors’ standings and its factory entry was fourth in the Teams’ standings, becoming the highest-ranked non‑Ducati-powered team after overtaking Aprilia. Pedro Acosta emerged as the squad’s on-track leader, adopted setup elements from Maverick Viñales, took KTM’s first official podium of the year at Brno, and closed the year fourth in the world championship. He described the season as “a wasted year” despite personal progress. Brad Binder finished 11th overall without a podium. Tech3 endured a turbulent season. Viñales had a strong result in Qatar, chalked off for a tyre-pressure infringement, and was sidelined time with a serious shoulder injury at Sachsenring. Enea Bastianini scored a Grand Prix and Sprint podium midseason but faded after losing Giribuola, and substitute Pol Espargaró provided stability with four top-10s in five starts.
Contract positions and longer-term planning remain unresolved. Media reports say all four riders are out of contract at the end of the season, and Acosta has been linked with a potential move to a Ducati-run team. Coverage described KTM as weighing roster choices while preparing for the 2027 regulations and surveying the wider MotoGP market for options rather than relying on an obvious in-house successor. Some outlets named long-shot possibilities such as Francesco Bagnaia and Fabio Quartararo, but presented those as unlikely.
Stewards Hand Marquez Double Long-Lap Penalty
Alex Marquez was handed a double long-lap penalty for Sunday’s Japanese Grand Prix at Motegi after causing a multi-rider crash on the opening lap of the sprint. FIM stewards said the Turn 3 incident was a first-lap, multiple-rider dangerous situation and said the double long-lap penalty was the appropriate punishment for Marquez’s first offense of the season. He kept fifth on the grid for Sunday’s race despite the penalty.
The crash unfolded as Marquez attacked Fabio Di Giannantonio for sixth place. Pedro Acosta had been forced wide by Enea Bastianini, and Marquez lost the front while trying to slow down. He clipped Acosta and then collected Di Giannantonio, sending all three riders down and ending the races of Acosta and Di Giannantonio in the sprint.
Marc Marquez won the sprint at Motegi, leading every lap and beating title rival Jorge Martin by 2.466 seconds. Martin and Enea Bastianini were later penalized for exceeding track limits, which promoted Diogo Moreira to second, his best MotoGP result. Marc Marquez’s win also cut Martin’s championship lead before Sunday’s grand prix.
Liberty Media drops Phillip Island for Adelaide circuit
MotoGP officials confirmed a major calendar overhaul as Liberty Media, MotoGP’s new owners, will replace Phillip Island with a planned Adelaide circuit as part of a push for more city-center events. Liberty announced Phillip Island will no longer host the Australian Grand Prix, though reports differ on the timing — the announcement cites a change “from 2027,” while some reports say Phillip Island was removed from the 2026 calendar. Some outlets suggested Adelaide could take the season-finale slot while Valencia moves into the middle of the season.
The move provoked widespread criticism from riders, commentators and fans; commentator Keith Huewen called the loss “tragic.” Organizers acknowledged the decision has created uncertainty for local communities and supporters.
Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta defended the overhaul on safety grounds, saying “safety comes first,” and citing an increased number of accidents at Phillip Island and persistent wind and rain concerns. He said safety — not location alone — will determine which venues remain on the calendar, warning that Madrid’s IFEMA layout lacked required safety conditions and that Suzuka, while “a beautiful circuit,” could not remain under current safety standards. Organizers and circuit designer Jarno Zaffelli described the planned Adelaide layout as urban but not a true street circuit: Ezpeleta called it a “safe, non-street race,” and Zaffelli said it would not be a “true street circuit.” Liberty Media has signaled further calendar changes as it modernizes and globalizes MotoGP’s schedule, identifying at least one other unnamed circuit for removal; the dispute frames a broader clash between a push for more city-center events (and some street-style proposals) and defenders of traditional high-speed venues, with venue design and safety at the center of the debate.