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
Jonas Folger has been named to replace Maverick Vinales on the KTM-backed Tech3 entry for the French Grand Prix at Le Mans after test rider Dani Pedrosa declined a late call-up. KTM had hoped Pedrosa would step in following a Jerez test; Pedrosa completed 30 laps with a best time of 1:37.483, said, “My time has passed,” and reiterated he does not intend to return to full-time racing. He also turned down the role in part because test-rider contract terms were reduced and wildcard incentives were removed.
KTM turned to Folger to ensure Tech3 fields two riders under MotoGP rules after Pol Espargaro’s injury left the team obliged to find a replacement. Vinales was ruled out of Le Mans while recovering from shoulder surgery in early April to remove a screw inserted after a qualifying crash at the German Grand Prix, and he was advised to miss the French round. He is expected to return at his home Grand Prix in Barcelona on May 15–17. Tech3 ran a single entry in Vinales’s absence at recent rounds and chose not to run a replacement at the United States and Spanish Grands Prix.
Folger, who will turn 33 in August, has been cleared to compete at Le Mans as a short-term, event-specific replacement. He last raced in MotoGP in 2023 when he stood in for Pol Espargaro over six rounds, scoring nine points with a best finish of 12th at Austin and a 14th at Assen on June 25, 2023, which means he has been away from MotoGP for roughly 1,050 days. A former winner in Moto3 and Moto2 and Tech3’s only MotoGP podium finisher at his home race in 2017, Folger said he does not expect any “miracles” and that his immediate priorities are to ride the bike, get the most out of it for himself and ensure the team has a rider on track. He said he does not feel pressure from KTM. Tech3 described the move as a pragmatic, short-term replacement tied to Vinales’s medical recovery rather than a permanent roster change.
Francesco Bagnaia begins the season under heavy scrutiny after a difficult 2025, when he struggled to adapt to Ducati’s GP25 and dropped to fifth in the championship. He finished 257 points behind teammate Marc Márquez, who recorded 11 wins and eight pole positions. Bagnaia’s contract runs through the end of 2026, and pundit Carlo Pernat warned that a repeat of 2025‑level results next season would be “unthinkable.”
Inside the factory garage, team boss Davide Tardozzi said Márquez “helped and protected” Bagnaia during the toughest moments of 2025, describing protective interventions on at least two occasions. Ducati engineers pointed to recurring GP25 issues briefly solved at the Japanese Grand Prix but later resurfacing as part of the explanation for Bagnaia’s dip in form.
At Ducati’s 2026 bike launch in the Dolomites, Bagnaia pushed back against what he called excessive criticism, saying roughly “90%” of the negative commentary was unnecessary. He rejected suggestions that the factory favoured Márquez and emphasised that riders can choose equipment and that the bikes are largely similar.
Off-track, Ducati says it is not yet negotiating a contract extension with Bagnaia. At the launch, he said he felt “extremely relaxed” about his future; some observers interpreted that as openness to leaving after 2026.
Reports conflict over Márquez’s situation. Some outlets report he has agreed a new deal with Ducati, others say Honda remains interested, and some articles reference an in‑principle agreement for 2027–28. Transfer speculation also names Pedro Acosta among possible future Ducati candidates. Potential destinations mentioned, should Bagnaia depart, include VR46, Aprilia (whose CEO Massimo Rivola called Bagnaia a “tempting” candidate), Honda, and Yamaha.
How Bagnaia performs on the GP26 in 2026, the timing and outcome of any contract decisions, and continuing rider‑market activity, including developments around Márquez and Acosta, will shape his standing at Ducati beyond 2026.
Fabio Quartararo crashed at Turn 5 on the opening day of the Sepang MotoGP test, falling on his third lap and being taken to the circuit medical centre. Initial checks ruled out fractures but found abrasions to his left arm. But a later assessment revealed a broken finger on his right hand and a sore arm. He returned in the afternoon, added laps, and posted the ninth-fastest time on Yamaha’s much-changed V4 M1, but Yamaha and Quartararo ended his Sepang program after a total of 24 laps (eight in the morning, 16 in the afternoon) so the finger could heal.
The early exit cost Yamaha valuable test time at a session dedicated to assessing the new V4 package. Other V4-related problems emerged during the test, including Andrea Dovizioso stopping with a problem, and team principal Massimo Meregalli even suggested the team might consider benching a rider if necessary. Quartararo himself said the new V4 remained “very, very far” from where it needed to be for one-lap pace and race performance. Yamaha therefore lost on-track data and setup time that had been earmarked for refining handling, electronics, and race pace ahead of the season.
Yamaha and Quartararo prioritised recovery with the Thailand GP opener and a Buriram test (Feb 21–22) in mind. The rider confirmed he planned to skip the rest of Sepang to be fit for those next outings. The withdrawal underlined the preseason trade-off between protecting rider health and securing development mileage on radically updated machinery.
Separately, reports linking Quartararo to a Honda deal for 2027–28 were noted during the test, raising the prospect that 2026 might be his final season with Yamaha.
Moto3 practice at the Circuit of the Americas produced a rapid succession of record laps, with Máximo Quiles opening the run on Friday by setting a new all-time Moto3 lap record of 2:13.757 on a Pirelli-shod CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team KTM, breaking Matteo Bertelle’s 2025 benchmark of 2:13.939. Álvaro Carpe then lowered that mark to 2:13.190 in Saturday morning practice aboard his Pirelli-shod Red Bull KTM Ajo machine; Quiles’s 2:13.757 session also featured Guido Pini second fastest on a Leopard Racing Honda with a 2:13.929.
Carpe had earlier topped Friday morning Free Practice One with a 2:14.209 for Red Bull KTM Ajo before finishing third in Friday’s faster session with a 2:14.202.
Friday’s timing sheets showed a cluster of leading Moto3 riders in the 2:14s — Matteo Bertelle (2:14.293), Valentín Perrone (2:14.309) and Joel Esteban among them — while Saturday morning produced a tight top three of Carpe (2:13.190), Perrone (2:13.280) and Esteban (2:13.349). The practice sessions ran around the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) Circuit of the Americas with a 25-rider field, Pirelli control tires prominent among the front-runners and KTM machinery occupying many of the top positions. Final grid places will be decided in subsequent practice and qualifying sessions.
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
Related Posts
Tech3 names Jonas Folger to meet MotoGP two-rider rule
Jonas Folger has been named to replace Maverick Vinales on the KTM-backed Tech3 entry for the French Grand Prix at Le Mans after test rider Dani Pedrosa declined a late call-up. KTM had hoped Pedrosa would step in following a Jerez test; Pedrosa completed 30 laps with a best time of 1:37.483, said, “My time has passed,” and reiterated he does not intend to return to full-time racing. He also turned down the role in part because test-rider contract terms were reduced and wildcard incentives were removed.
KTM turned to Folger to ensure Tech3 fields two riders under MotoGP rules after Pol Espargaro’s injury left the team obliged to find a replacement. Vinales was ruled out of Le Mans while recovering from shoulder surgery in early April to remove a screw inserted after a qualifying crash at the German Grand Prix, and he was advised to miss the French round. He is expected to return at his home Grand Prix in Barcelona on May 15–17. Tech3 ran a single entry in Vinales’s absence at recent rounds and chose not to run a replacement at the United States and Spanish Grands Prix.
Folger, who will turn 33 in August, has been cleared to compete at Le Mans as a short-term, event-specific replacement. He last raced in MotoGP in 2023 when he stood in for Pol Espargaro over six rounds, scoring nine points with a best finish of 12th at Austin and a 14th at Assen on June 25, 2023, which means he has been away from MotoGP for roughly 1,050 days. A former winner in Moto3 and Moto2 and Tech3’s only MotoGP podium finisher at his home race in 2017, Folger said he does not expect any “miracles” and that his immediate priorities are to ride the bike, get the most out of it for himself and ensure the team has a rider on track. He said he does not feel pressure from KTM. Tech3 described the move as a pragmatic, short-term replacement tied to Vinales’s medical recovery rather than a permanent roster change.
Bagnaia’s Job at Ducati Uncertain After GP25 Struggles
Francesco Bagnaia begins the season under heavy scrutiny after a difficult 2025, when he struggled to adapt to Ducati’s GP25 and dropped to fifth in the championship. He finished 257 points behind teammate Marc Márquez, who recorded 11 wins and eight pole positions. Bagnaia’s contract runs through the end of 2026, and pundit Carlo Pernat warned that a repeat of 2025‑level results next season would be “unthinkable.”
Inside the factory garage, team boss Davide Tardozzi said Márquez “helped and protected” Bagnaia during the toughest moments of 2025, describing protective interventions on at least two occasions. Ducati engineers pointed to recurring GP25 issues briefly solved at the Japanese Grand Prix but later resurfacing as part of the explanation for Bagnaia’s dip in form.
At Ducati’s 2026 bike launch in the Dolomites, Bagnaia pushed back against what he called excessive criticism, saying roughly “90%” of the negative commentary was unnecessary. He rejected suggestions that the factory favoured Márquez and emphasised that riders can choose equipment and that the bikes are largely similar.
Off-track, Ducati says it is not yet negotiating a contract extension with Bagnaia. At the launch, he said he felt “extremely relaxed” about his future; some observers interpreted that as openness to leaving after 2026.
Reports conflict over Márquez’s situation. Some outlets report he has agreed a new deal with Ducati, others say Honda remains interested, and some articles reference an in‑principle agreement for 2027–28. Transfer speculation also names Pedro Acosta among possible future Ducati candidates. Potential destinations mentioned, should Bagnaia depart, include VR46, Aprilia (whose CEO Massimo Rivola called Bagnaia a “tempting” candidate), Honda, and Yamaha.
How Bagnaia performs on the GP26 in 2026, the timing and outcome of any contract decisions, and continuing rider‑market activity, including developments around Márquez and Acosta, will shape his standing at Ducati beyond 2026.
Quartararo Breaks Finger, Ending Yamaha Sepang Test
Fabio Quartararo crashed at Turn 5 on the opening day of the Sepang MotoGP test, falling on his third lap and being taken to the circuit medical centre. Initial checks ruled out fractures but found abrasions to his left arm. But a later assessment revealed a broken finger on his right hand and a sore arm. He returned in the afternoon, added laps, and posted the ninth-fastest time on Yamaha’s much-changed V4 M1, but Yamaha and Quartararo ended his Sepang program after a total of 24 laps (eight in the morning, 16 in the afternoon) so the finger could heal.
The early exit cost Yamaha valuable test time at a session dedicated to assessing the new V4 package. Other V4-related problems emerged during the test, including Andrea Dovizioso stopping with a problem, and team principal Massimo Meregalli even suggested the team might consider benching a rider if necessary. Quartararo himself said the new V4 remained “very, very far” from where it needed to be for one-lap pace and race performance. Yamaha therefore lost on-track data and setup time that had been earmarked for refining handling, electronics, and race pace ahead of the season.
Yamaha and Quartararo prioritised recovery with the Thailand GP opener and a Buriram test (Feb 21–22) in mind. The rider confirmed he planned to skip the rest of Sepang to be fit for those next outings. The withdrawal underlined the preseason trade-off between protecting rider health and securing development mileage on radically updated machinery.
Separately, reports linking Quartararo to a Honda deal for 2027–28 were noted during the test, raising the prospect that 2026 might be his final season with Yamaha.
Álvaro Carpe lowers Moto3 lap record at COTA to 2:13.190
Moto3 practice at the Circuit of the Americas produced a rapid succession of record laps, with Máximo Quiles opening the run on Friday by setting a new all-time Moto3 lap record of 2:13.757 on a Pirelli-shod CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team KTM, breaking Matteo Bertelle’s 2025 benchmark of 2:13.939. Álvaro Carpe then lowered that mark to 2:13.190 in Saturday morning practice aboard his Pirelli-shod Red Bull KTM Ajo machine; Quiles’s 2:13.757 session also featured Guido Pini second fastest on a Leopard Racing Honda with a 2:13.929.
Carpe had earlier topped Friday morning Free Practice One with a 2:14.209 for Red Bull KTM Ajo before finishing third in Friday’s faster session with a 2:14.202.
Friday’s timing sheets showed a cluster of leading Moto3 riders in the 2:14s — Matteo Bertelle (2:14.293), Valentín Perrone (2:14.309) and Joel Esteban among them — while Saturday morning produced a tight top three of Carpe (2:13.190), Perrone (2:13.280) and Esteban (2:13.349). The practice sessions ran around the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) Circuit of the Americas with a 25-rider field, Pirelli control tires prominent among the front-runners and KTM machinery occupying many of the top positions. Final grid places will be decided in subsequent practice and qualifying sessions.