The 2024 MotoGP season opener in Qatar laid a solid foundation for what’s expected to be a closely contested championship. Ducati’s Pecco Bagnaia showcased his intent to chase a third title with a strong performance, while KTM’s Brad Binder and Ducati’s Jorge Martin secured podium finishes, indicating their potential to challenge the top spot. Pedro Acosta’s debut was notably impressive, hinting at a disruptive season ahead for the rookie.
As the series heads to Portugal on March 24th, the focus shifts to how the teams and riders adapt and respond to the opening race’s outcomes. Qatar revealed Ducati’s strength, with KTM closely trailing, suggesting a possible continuation of this dynamic in Portugal. However, the performance gap seen in Qatar, especially from Yamaha and Honda, poses questions about their ability to close in on the leaders.
The upcoming MotoGP Portugal event is critical for teams to either build on their Qatar momentum or address shortcomings. The circuit’s characteristics will test the riders’ skills and the bikes’ capabilities, potentially reshaping the early championship standings. With all riders having a race under their belts, strategies will be refined, making the Portugal race not just a continuation but an escalation in the 2024 MotoGP championship battle.
Place your wagers for the2024 MotoGP – Portugal Grand Prix at our partner sportsbooks.
Schedule and How to Watch the 2024 MotoGP - Portugal Grand Prix
The MotoGP 2024 Portugal Grand Prix is scheduled to take place from March 21st to 24th, culminating in the Grand Prix on the final day. The main event will rev up at 4:00 pm local time on March 21st, promising a thrilling start to the season at this iconic venue. The Portugal racetrack offers a comprehensive view of the racing action with the Portugal GP set to be a spectacular show, both for the spectators at the circuit and for viewers around the world. 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.
Best Bets and Picks for the 2024 MotoGP Portugal Grand Prix
With a range of betting options available, from Event Winner to Head-to-Head bets, bettors are presented with a wide spectrum of wagering opportunities. Here are our top picks and dark horse selections for this event:
Top Picks and Bets
Top Picks and Bets
Rider
Event Winner Odds
Payout on $20
Francesco Bagnaia
+120
$44.00
Jorge Martin
+275
$75.00
Marc Marquez
+300
$80.00
Francesco Bagnaia sits atop the odds at +120, a testament to his remarkable consistency and skill demonstrated throughout the 2023 season as well as at Qatar. His recent runner-up finish in Qatar, part of a series of podium appearances, underscores not just his ability to perform under pressure but also his strategic prowess on the track. Bagnaia’s mastery in managing race dynamics and his knack for making critical moves at decisive moments have been key to his success. Heading into Portugal, his championship lead not only marks him as the man to beat but also adds an extra layer of pressure as he aims to maintain or extend his advantage in the standings.
Jorge Martin, with odds at +275, has shown he is more than capable of challenging the top spot. His performances, marked by bold maneuvers and an aggressive racing style, have consistently put him in contention. Martin’s capability to adapt and push his machine to the limits has seen him secure vital points, keeping the championship race tightly contested. In Portugal, his recent history suggests he will be a formidable force, potentially leveraging his aggressive approach to unsettle Bagnaia and close the gap in the championship leaderboard.
Marc Marquez, priced at +300, carries a legacy of resilience and exceptional talent into Portugal. Despite a mixed bag of results in the recent past, Marquez’s capacity for spectacular comebacks and his aggressive, no-holds-barred racing style make him a perennial threat. His performances, although varied, have showcased flashes of the brilliance that once dominated MotoGP. Marquez’s strategy in Portugal will likely involve leveraging his experience and innate ability to navigate the track’s complexities, aiming to clinch a victory that could reignite his championship aspirations.
Outsider Picks
The outsider picks for the upcoming Portugal Grand Prix present a tantalizing mix of talent, experience, and unpredictable flair that could potentially upset the established order.
Rider
Event Winner Odds
Payout on $20
Brad Binder
+700
$160.00
Luca Marini
+1000
$220.00
Alex Marquez
+1800
$380.00
Brad Binder, with odds at +700, delivered a solid performance in Qatar, underscoring his reputation as a resilient competitor capable of navigating the complexities of race day. His ability to maintain composure and secure valuable points, even when not in the lead, demonstrates a level of consistency and race intelligence that will be crucial in Portugal. Binder’s adaptability and tactical approach in Qatar suggest he could leverage any opportunities in the dynamic conditions of the Portugal Grand Prix to challenge the frontrunners.
Enea Bastianini, listed at +1000, showed glimpses of his potential in Qatar, battling amidst the highly competitive field. His performance highlighted his aggressive racing style and determination, traits that could significantly influence his approach in Portugal. Given the tight and technical nature of the Portuguese track, Bastianini’s knack for aggressive maneuvers could see him making substantial gains, capitalizing on the slightest errors of his competitors to improve his standings.
Pedro Acosta, the rookie with odds at +1800, made a remarkable debut in Qatar, showcasing his talent and adaptability to the premier class. His ability to hold his own against more experienced riders and secure a commendable finish signals a promising start to his MotoGP career. Heading into Portugal, Acosta’s performance in Qatar will undoubtedly boost his confidence, making him a wildcard entry capable of surprising the established names.
These riders represent intriguing options for bettors looking beyond the frontrunners. With their higher odds, they offer a blend of risk and reward, making the Portugal GP an exciting prospect for those seeking to place more adventurous bets.
Head-To-Head Picks
As the Portugal Grand Prix approaches, the head-to-head matchups inject an extra thrill into MotoGP betting. These confrontations highlight the riders’ skill and strategic mastery at every corner, providing bettors with a unique opportunity to dive deep into the heart of MotoGP rivalries. Each pairing unfolds as a captivating story of velocity and strategy. Don’t miss the table below for these matchups, and prepare for an enhanced level of excitement as riders go toe-to-toe on the circuit.
Matchup (Favorite in Bold)
Pedro Acosta (-160) v. Fabio Di Giannantonio (+130)
Francesco Bagnaia (-160) v. Jorge Martin (+130)
Brad Binder (-130) v. Enea Bastianini (+100)
Francesco Bagnaia (-200) v. Marc Marquez (+160)
Jorge Martin (-150) v. Marc Marquez (+120)
Aleix Espargaro (-150) v. Maverick Vinales (+120)
Expert Pick for the 2024 MotoGP - Portugal Grand Prix
Brad Binder (+700)
Our Expert Pick is Brad Binder at +700. These odds indicate a potentially lucrative payout, recognizing Binder’s solid track record and his capacity for surging performances. His recent showings, including a commendable finish in Qatar, have highlighted his resilience and ability to capitalize on race dynamics. With the competitive nature of the Portugal circuit aligning well with Binder’s aggressive yet calculated racing style, his potential for delivering a strong result is amplified. Given the combination of his competitive drive, the consistent improvement of his KTM machine, and the high payout his current odds offer, Binder stands out as an attractive bet with significant upside potential.
Where to Bet on the 2024 MotoGP - Portugal Grand Prix
Gear up for the 2024 MotoGP – Portugal 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 Portugal Grand Prix signifies a crucial juncture in the MotoGP season, offering both a showcase of racing talent and opportunities for betting enthusiasts. This event allows bettors to engage with the sport on a deeper level, where strategic bets can enhance the viewing experience. It’s important to approach betting with caution, emphasizing informed decisions to responsibly enjoy this aspect of the sport. The intersection of detailed race analysis and betting adds a dimension to the event, where understanding of the sport’s nuances becomes as crucial as the passion for racing itself.
21+ Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
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 …
Toprak Razgatlioglu’s adaptation to the Yamaha M1 has been hampered by rear-tyre issues; he called the Michelin tyres the “real problem” slowing his switch from World Superbikes, highlighting rear grip and acceleration as his main challenges after Brazil. He said the M1’s greater power, aerodynamics and electronics make familiar tracks feel different. Razgatlioglu has improved since Thailand but is still searching for a narrow performance window on the rear tyre and warned that Michelin’s use of a stiffer carcass in Thailand and Brazil, and the planned reversion to the standard carcass for the US GP at COTA, will complicate his learning. Tyre management and suspension/setup choices will be central at Austin, where bumps and a physical first sector may require a softer setup to protect rear grip.
Results in the opening rounds underlined those difficulties: Razgatlioglu failed to score points in Thailand and Brazil, with best race finishes of 17th in both grands prix. He crashed in the Buriram sprint, finished 18th in the Goiânia sprint and was 17th in the Brazilian GP after reaching Q2 and qualifying 12th. He said the sequence of results left him “really down” after Saturday in Brazil. Razgatlioglu has prior experience at COTA — he first raced the circuit in the Red Bull Rookies Cup in 2013 and rode it last year on BMW’s M1000RR — but he said the M1 changes how the track feels.
Support staff and industry figures say the start is technically understandable and that he is improving. Coach Sylvain Guintoli said Razgatlioglu was “getting the hang of” the Yamaha M1 after pre-qualifying at COTA: Razgatlioglu posted a 2:02.373 lap to finish 18th overall and was the third-fastest Yamaha behind Fabio Quartararo and Jack Miller, while Ducati’s Marc Márquez topped the session with a 2:00.927. Guintoli pointed to Friday race simulations as evidence Razgatlioglu is learning to manage throttle inputs, “hook the bike up” and improve traction, while stressing that track temperature and overall tyre grip remain key variables. Ducati test rider Michele Pirro said Razgatlioglu’s difficult start “makes me smile,” noting the switch to the V4 YZR‑M1 requires learning ride‑height devices, increased aerodynamics and running Michelins instead of Pirellis. Pirro warned that being seven to eight tenths off the pace effectively places a rider at the back and that gains often come in small fractions — sometimes half a tenth per corner — but expressed confidence Razgatlioglu can improve as he gains experience with the bike, the Michelin tyres and MotoGP fine‑tuning.
Christian Horner made an unannounced visit to the MotoGP paddock at Jerez, attending the final practice session with Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. He visited Honda’s garage, spoke with HRC CEO Koji Watanabe, described himself as “a big fan,” and said MotoGP was going through “a really interesting time” under new Liberty Media ownership. Horner ran Red Bull’s F1 team from 2005 until he left in mid-2025.
The visit prompted reporting that speculated about a possible move into MotoGP ownership. Those reports pointed to Liberty Media’s €4.2 billion acquisition of Dorna in 2025, which placed MotoGP under the same corporate umbrella as F1, and to a new commercial contract due in 2027 that has attracted investor interest. Journalists highlighted recent crossovers from F1, Guenther Steiner’s €20 million purchase of Tech3, and MotoGP’s satellite-team model and factory-built machinery as factors that lower the barriers to entry compared with F1.
Horner’s ties to Honda, whose engines helped power Red Bull to multiple drivers’ and teams’ titles in the 2020s, together with his conversations at Jerez and public comments, fueled industry rumours. He made no announcement and declined to outline any specific plans. Reporting said he reiterated his desire to return to F1, likely by buying equity in an existing team, with Alpine floated as a potential target, and articles also noted his recent controversies, including a 2024 investigation. Overall, the visit prompted speculation rather than confirming any recruitment or purchase.
At Sepang’s first preseason test, Ducati’s Francesco Bagnaia reported an immediate improvement on the new GP26, citing notably better braking and corner-entry confidence after a difficult 2025 season. He ran a radical aerodynamic fairing that showed both advantages and drawbacks but produced lap times broadly similar to the older bodywork, giving the team useful comparative data for ongoing development. Bagnaia and Alex Márquez spent much of the day on long runs with used tires to assess race pace, and the squad planned a sprint simulation the next day, followed by a full race simulation on day three. The opening work built on an encouraging Valencia post-season test and left Bagnaia cautiously optimistic while warning against reading too much into a single day.
Marc Márquez set the early benchmark with a 1:57.018 while managing limits as he recovers from a right-shoulder issue, and Bagnaia ultimately placed eighth, roughly seven-tenths off that time. Ducati’s focus in Sepang was clearly on usable setup and tire feedback rather than outright sheet positions, with Bagnaia emphasizing that the team needs to better understand how new parts behave before converting test pace into race advantage. The broader test painted a mixed picture across the paddock. Yamaha’s V4 was reported to be short on power, turning, traction, and electronics, and Fabio Quartararo was later ruled out of part of the program with a finger injury. On the contrary, Alex Rins and Jack Miller struck a more positive tone about Yamaha development. Early signs from Aprilia, KTM, and Honda were encouraging through riders such as Lorenzo Savadori, Pedro Acosta, Luca Marini, and Joan Mir, even as rookies and regulars worked through setups and recoveries.
Off-track, the opening test intensified contract-year and transfer speculation. Bagnaia is in a 2027 contract year and acknowledged that impending regulation changes have helped create a lively market. Reports linked Ducati with interest in Pedro Acosta for a factory seat and indicated the factory is close to finalizing a new deal with Marc Márquez, developments that feed uncertainty around other riders’ futures. Several pieces of coverage noted that a strong return to consistent podium form by Bagnaia would complicate any premature assumptions about incoming stars, and Ducati will use the remainder of preseason testing to firm up the GP26’s setup and aerodynamic package. Overall, the Sepang opener left Ducati with encouraging technical signs and a clearer roadmap for evaluation, even as the paddock begins to reshuffle around the new rules.
Best Bets: 2024 MotoGP Portugal Grand Prix Pre-Event Odds
The 2024 MotoGP season opener in Qatar laid a solid foundation for what’s expected to be a closely contested championship. Ducati’s Pecco Bagnaia showcased his intent to chase a third title with a strong performance, while KTM’s Brad Binder and Ducati’s Jorge Martin secured podium finishes, indicating their potential to challenge the top spot. Pedro Acosta’s debut was notably impressive, hinting at a disruptive season ahead for the rookie.
As the series heads to Portugal on March 24th, the focus shifts to how the teams and riders adapt and respond to the opening race’s outcomes. Qatar revealed Ducati’s strength, with KTM closely trailing, suggesting a possible continuation of this dynamic in Portugal. However, the performance gap seen in Qatar, especially from Yamaha and Honda, poses questions about their ability to close in on the leaders.
The upcoming MotoGP Portugal event is critical for teams to either build on their Qatar momentum or address shortcomings. The circuit’s characteristics will test the riders’ skills and the bikes’ capabilities, potentially reshaping the early championship standings. With all riders having a race under their belts, strategies will be refined, making the Portugal race not just a continuation but an escalation in the 2024 MotoGP championship battle.
Place your wagers for the2024 MotoGP – Portugal Grand Prix at our partner sportsbooks.
Schedule and How to Watch the 2024 MotoGP - Portugal Grand Prix
The MotoGP 2024 Portugal Grand Prix is scheduled to take place from March 21st to 24th, culminating in the Grand Prix on the final day. The main event will rev up at 4:00 pm local time on March 21st, promising a thrilling start to the season at this iconic venue. The Portugal racetrack offers a comprehensive view of the racing action with the Portugal GP set to be a spectacular show, both for the spectators at the circuit and for viewers around the world. 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.
Best Bets and Picks for the 2024 MotoGP Portugal Grand Prix
With a range of betting options available, from Event Winner to Head-to-Head bets, bettors are presented with a wide spectrum of wagering opportunities. Here are our top picks and dark horse selections for this event:
Top Picks and Bets
Top Picks and Bets
Rider
Event Winner Odds
Payout on $20
Francesco Bagnaia
+120
$44.00
Jorge Martin
+275
$75.00
Marc Marquez
+300
$80.00
Francesco Bagnaia sits atop the odds at +120, a testament to his remarkable consistency and skill demonstrated throughout the 2023 season as well as at Qatar. His recent runner-up finish in Qatar, part of a series of podium appearances, underscores not just his ability to perform under pressure but also his strategic prowess on the track. Bagnaia’s mastery in managing race dynamics and his knack for making critical moves at decisive moments have been key to his success. Heading into Portugal, his championship lead not only marks him as the man to beat but also adds an extra layer of pressure as he aims to maintain or extend his advantage in the standings.
Jorge Martin, with odds at +275, has shown he is more than capable of challenging the top spot. His performances, marked by bold maneuvers and an aggressive racing style, have consistently put him in contention. Martin’s capability to adapt and push his machine to the limits has seen him secure vital points, keeping the championship race tightly contested. In Portugal, his recent history suggests he will be a formidable force, potentially leveraging his aggressive approach to unsettle Bagnaia and close the gap in the championship leaderboard.
Marc Marquez, priced at +300, carries a legacy of resilience and exceptional talent into Portugal. Despite a mixed bag of results in the recent past, Marquez’s capacity for spectacular comebacks and his aggressive, no-holds-barred racing style make him a perennial threat. His performances, although varied, have showcased flashes of the brilliance that once dominated MotoGP. Marquez’s strategy in Portugal will likely involve leveraging his experience and innate ability to navigate the track’s complexities, aiming to clinch a victory that could reignite his championship aspirations.
Outsider Picks
The outsider picks for the upcoming Portugal Grand Prix present a tantalizing mix of talent, experience, and unpredictable flair that could potentially upset the established order.
Rider
Event Winner Odds
Payout on $20
Brad Binder
+700
$160.00
Luca Marini
+1000
$220.00
Alex Marquez
+1800
$380.00
Brad Binder, with odds at +700, delivered a solid performance in Qatar, underscoring his reputation as a resilient competitor capable of navigating the complexities of race day. His ability to maintain composure and secure valuable points, even when not in the lead, demonstrates a level of consistency and race intelligence that will be crucial in Portugal. Binder’s adaptability and tactical approach in Qatar suggest he could leverage any opportunities in the dynamic conditions of the Portugal Grand Prix to challenge the frontrunners.
Enea Bastianini, listed at +1000, showed glimpses of his potential in Qatar, battling amidst the highly competitive field. His performance highlighted his aggressive racing style and determination, traits that could significantly influence his approach in Portugal. Given the tight and technical nature of the Portuguese track, Bastianini’s knack for aggressive maneuvers could see him making substantial gains, capitalizing on the slightest errors of his competitors to improve his standings.
Pedro Acosta, the rookie with odds at +1800, made a remarkable debut in Qatar, showcasing his talent and adaptability to the premier class. His ability to hold his own against more experienced riders and secure a commendable finish signals a promising start to his MotoGP career. Heading into Portugal, Acosta’s performance in Qatar will undoubtedly boost his confidence, making him a wildcard entry capable of surprising the established names.
These riders represent intriguing options for bettors looking beyond the frontrunners. With their higher odds, they offer a blend of risk and reward, making the Portugal GP an exciting prospect for those seeking to place more adventurous bets.
Head-To-Head Picks
As the Portugal Grand Prix approaches, the head-to-head matchups inject an extra thrill into MotoGP betting. These confrontations highlight the riders’ skill and strategic mastery at every corner, providing bettors with a unique opportunity to dive deep into the heart of MotoGP rivalries. Each pairing unfolds as a captivating story of velocity and strategy. Don’t miss the table below for these matchups, and prepare for an enhanced level of excitement as riders go toe-to-toe on the circuit.
Matchup (Favorite in Bold)
Pedro Acosta (-160) v. Fabio Di Giannantonio (+130)
Francesco Bagnaia (-160) v. Jorge Martin (+130)
Brad Binder (-130) v. Enea Bastianini (+100)
Francesco Bagnaia (-200) v. Marc Marquez (+160)
Jorge Martin (-150) v. Marc Marquez (+120)
Aleix Espargaro (-150) v. Maverick Vinales (+120)
Expert Pick for the 2024 MotoGP - Portugal Grand Prix
Brad Binder (+700)
Our Expert Pick is Brad Binder at +700. These odds indicate a potentially lucrative payout, recognizing Binder’s solid track record and his capacity for surging performances. His recent showings, including a commendable finish in Qatar, have highlighted his resilience and ability to capitalize on race dynamics. With the competitive nature of the Portugal circuit aligning well with Binder’s aggressive yet calculated racing style, his potential for delivering a strong result is amplified. Given the combination of his competitive drive, the consistent improvement of his KTM machine, and the high payout his current odds offer, Binder stands out as an attractive bet with significant upside potential.
Where to Bet on the 2024 MotoGP - Portugal Grand Prix
Gear up for the 2024 MotoGP – Portugal 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 Portugal Grand Prix signifies a crucial juncture in the MotoGP season, offering both a showcase of racing talent and opportunities for betting enthusiasts. This event allows bettors to engage with the sport on a deeper level, where strategic bets can enhance the viewing experience. It’s important to approach betting with caution, emphasizing informed decisions to responsibly enjoy this aspect of the sport. The intersection of detailed race analysis and betting adds a dimension to the event, where understanding of the sport’s nuances becomes as crucial as the passion for racing itself.
21+ Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
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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 …
Michelin carcass switch hinders Razgatlioglu at COTA
Toprak Razgatlioglu’s adaptation to the Yamaha M1 has been hampered by rear-tyre issues; he called the Michelin tyres the “real problem” slowing his switch from World Superbikes, highlighting rear grip and acceleration as his main challenges after Brazil. He said the M1’s greater power, aerodynamics and electronics make familiar tracks feel different. Razgatlioglu has improved since Thailand but is still searching for a narrow performance window on the rear tyre and warned that Michelin’s use of a stiffer carcass in Thailand and Brazil, and the planned reversion to the standard carcass for the US GP at COTA, will complicate his learning. Tyre management and suspension/setup choices will be central at Austin, where bumps and a physical first sector may require a softer setup to protect rear grip.
Results in the opening rounds underlined those difficulties: Razgatlioglu failed to score points in Thailand and Brazil, with best race finishes of 17th in both grands prix. He crashed in the Buriram sprint, finished 18th in the Goiânia sprint and was 17th in the Brazilian GP after reaching Q2 and qualifying 12th. He said the sequence of results left him “really down” after Saturday in Brazil. Razgatlioglu has prior experience at COTA — he first raced the circuit in the Red Bull Rookies Cup in 2013 and rode it last year on BMW’s M1000RR — but he said the M1 changes how the track feels.
Support staff and industry figures say the start is technically understandable and that he is improving. Coach Sylvain Guintoli said Razgatlioglu was “getting the hang of” the Yamaha M1 after pre-qualifying at COTA: Razgatlioglu posted a 2:02.373 lap to finish 18th overall and was the third-fastest Yamaha behind Fabio Quartararo and Jack Miller, while Ducati’s Marc Márquez topped the session with a 2:00.927. Guintoli pointed to Friday race simulations as evidence Razgatlioglu is learning to manage throttle inputs, “hook the bike up” and improve traction, while stressing that track temperature and overall tyre grip remain key variables. Ducati test rider Michele Pirro said Razgatlioglu’s difficult start “makes me smile,” noting the switch to the V4 YZR‑M1 requires learning ride‑height devices, increased aerodynamics and running Michelins instead of Pirellis. Pirro warned that being seven to eight tenths off the pace effectively places a rider at the back and that gains often come in small fractions — sometimes half a tenth per corner — but expressed confidence Razgatlioglu can improve as he gains experience with the bike, the Michelin tyres and MotoGP fine‑tuning.
Horner’s Jerez Visit Sparks MotoGP Ownership Rumors
Christian Horner made an unannounced visit to the MotoGP paddock at Jerez, attending the final practice session with Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. He visited Honda’s garage, spoke with HRC CEO Koji Watanabe, described himself as “a big fan,” and said MotoGP was going through “a really interesting time” under new Liberty Media ownership. Horner ran Red Bull’s F1 team from 2005 until he left in mid-2025.
The visit prompted reporting that speculated about a possible move into MotoGP ownership. Those reports pointed to Liberty Media’s €4.2 billion acquisition of Dorna in 2025, which placed MotoGP under the same corporate umbrella as F1, and to a new commercial contract due in 2027 that has attracted investor interest. Journalists highlighted recent crossovers from F1, Guenther Steiner’s €20 million purchase of Tech3, and MotoGP’s satellite-team model and factory-built machinery as factors that lower the barriers to entry compared with F1.
Horner’s ties to Honda, whose engines helped power Red Bull to multiple drivers’ and teams’ titles in the 2020s, together with his conversations at Jerez and public comments, fueled industry rumours. He made no announcement and declined to outline any specific plans. Reporting said he reiterated his desire to return to F1, likely by buying equity in an existing team, with Alpine floated as a potential target, and articles also noted his recent controversies, including a 2024 investigation. Overall, the visit prompted speculation rather than confirming any recruitment or purchase.
Bagnaia Reports Brake Boost, Confidence on Ducati GP26
At Sepang’s first preseason test, Ducati’s Francesco Bagnaia reported an immediate improvement on the new GP26, citing notably better braking and corner-entry confidence after a difficult 2025 season. He ran a radical aerodynamic fairing that showed both advantages and drawbacks but produced lap times broadly similar to the older bodywork, giving the team useful comparative data for ongoing development. Bagnaia and Alex Márquez spent much of the day on long runs with used tires to assess race pace, and the squad planned a sprint simulation the next day, followed by a full race simulation on day three. The opening work built on an encouraging Valencia post-season test and left Bagnaia cautiously optimistic while warning against reading too much into a single day.
Marc Márquez set the early benchmark with a 1:57.018 while managing limits as he recovers from a right-shoulder issue, and Bagnaia ultimately placed eighth, roughly seven-tenths off that time. Ducati’s focus in Sepang was clearly on usable setup and tire feedback rather than outright sheet positions, with Bagnaia emphasizing that the team needs to better understand how new parts behave before converting test pace into race advantage. The broader test painted a mixed picture across the paddock. Yamaha’s V4 was reported to be short on power, turning, traction, and electronics, and Fabio Quartararo was later ruled out of part of the program with a finger injury. On the contrary, Alex Rins and Jack Miller struck a more positive tone about Yamaha development. Early signs from Aprilia, KTM, and Honda were encouraging through riders such as Lorenzo Savadori, Pedro Acosta, Luca Marini, and Joan Mir, even as rookies and regulars worked through setups and recoveries.
Off-track, the opening test intensified contract-year and transfer speculation. Bagnaia is in a 2027 contract year and acknowledged that impending regulation changes have helped create a lively market. Reports linked Ducati with interest in Pedro Acosta for a factory seat and indicated the factory is close to finalizing a new deal with Marc Márquez, developments that feed uncertainty around other riders’ futures. Several pieces of coverage noted that a strong return to consistent podium form by Bagnaia would complicate any premature assumptions about incoming stars, and Ducati will use the remainder of preseason testing to firm up the GP26’s setup and aerodynamic package. Overall, the Sepang opener left Ducati with encouraging technical signs and a clearer roadmap for evaluation, even as the paddock begins to reshuffle around the new rules.