California is among the few states in the United States yet to legalize gambling. However, if you are a motorsports enthusiast in California looking for a better way to engage with MotoGP, we recommend Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). It is often classified as a game of skill rather than chance, hence allowed even in regions prohibiting sports betting. Platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks operate legally in California, allowing players to enjoy Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) contests.
At NXTbets, we take great pride in being a trusted source for MotoGP data, insights, and picks. We also provide safe gaming resources for DFS participants so they can have a safe and enjoyable experience. Join us as we discuss how to play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks in California and a few strategies to guarantee success.
How to Register for Underdog Fantasy in California
To enjoy MotoGP DFS, create an account with Underdog Fantasy, known for its user-friendly interface and various DFS contests. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to create such an account:
Step 1: Visit the Underdog Fantasy Website
The first step to an exciting MotoGP DFS experience is to visit the Underdog Fantasy website or download its mobile application. Both are well-designed and easy to navigate, saving you time and effort. The home page showcases the featured contests, current promotions, and other exciting features.
Step 2: Create a New Account
This is where you open a new Underdog Fantasy account using the following steps:
Enter a promo code, if any. Check NXTbets for amazing promos and signup bonuses.
Agree to the terms and conditions: The legal age requirement for California DFS participants is 18 years or older.
Note: Underdog Fantasy offerssignup bonuses or promotionsfor new DFS participants. Check the platform’s home page or NXTbets’ website before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Make Your First Deposit
The next step is to fund your account. While Underdog Fantasy does not offer several deposit options, you can make your first deposit through bank transfers, PayPal, or credit/bank cards. Remember, the platform mostly offers a deposit match-up bonus for first-time users, i.e., the more you deposit, the higher your deposit bonus will be. Once you understand the relevant signup bonus, deposit an amount that can help you maximize your rewards.
Step 4: Complete Account Verification
The fourth and last step is to verify your account. Underdog Fantasy requires new members to verify their accounts for security purposes and ensure they comply with legal regulations. The platform may require that you submit proof of identity and residency, such as your proof of address, passport, or government-issued ID. Always provide the required information quickly to secure your deposits and withdrawals.
How to Play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy
Now that you have an active Underdog Fantasy account, it’s time to enter your first contest. While the process may be simple, you must plan strategically. Here are the applicable steps:
Step 1: Choose a MotoGP Contest
Underdog Fantasy offers three main contests. However, only pick’em contests are available in MotoGP DFS gaming. In this contest, participants predict whether a rider will meet or fail to meet certain limits or achievements during the match or race. It can be easily adapted for MotoGP by targeting metrics such as finishing positions. You predict whether a rider will finish higher or lower than a certain position.
Step 2: Build Your DFS Playslip
A strong DFS lineup will increase your chances of winning DFS contests. For a great lineup:
Study Rider Performance: Analyze rider statistics, including historical success on specific tracks, recent race performance, and team dynamics.
Consider Race Conditions: Weather and track conditions often affect rider performance.
Step 3: Monitor Your Contest Performance
Once you have prepared a lineup and entered into a contest, it’s time to monitor your performance. Fortunately, Underdog Fantasy offers real-time updates on contest standings and rider performance, allowing you to track their progress throughout the event. Monitor factors likely to affect your MotoGP DFS score, such as the laps led, finishing position, and fastest laps.
Note: Underdog Fantasy does not allow you to alter your lineup once the race begins. Therefore, always counter check your picks before submitting them or entering a contest.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing MotoGP DFS on PrizePicks in California
Like NXTbets, PrizePicks also has competitive MotoGP DFS contests. Follow the steps below to play:
1. Create an Account Using a Valid Email
The first step is to register for PrizePicks as follows:
Click on sign-up and enter relevant details: Tap the sign-up button on the official website or mobile application: it will reveal various fields. Enter a valid email address, username, date of birth, and password.
Enter a Promo Code: Besides the above details, provide a valid promo code when signing up with PrizePicks. Enter “NXT” to qualify for $50 on your first $5 entry.
Confirm if your details are correct and submit them. Providing the right information is crucial for the next step.
2. Complete Identity Verification
Next, confirm you meet PrizePicks’ user requirements and eligibility by verifying your identity. The process below applies:
Provide accurate personal information: Correctly enter the required information in the right fields.
Submit valid legal identification: Upload a qualifying government-issued ID document to confirm the information above.
Contact customer support if you encounter any issues during the ID verification process.
3. Deposit at Least $10 Using Your Preferred Method
Fund your account to activate it and play. Use the steps below:
Tap the deposit button: It is the green ‘+’ symbol next to the account balance (in the top right corner). Alternatively, you can visit the platform’s deposit page.
Select the preferred payment method: Which method suits you? PrizePicks accepts credit/debit cards (American Express, VISA, Discover, and MasterCard), online banking, Venmo, and Apple Pay.
Enter relevant details: Input accurate payment details depending on your chosen method (card number, official mobile number, or online wallet details). Submit them to complete the transaction.
Some payment methods, like debit/credit cards, have instant deposits.
4. Choose MotoGP Contests
You can now officially begin playing MotoGP DFS. For the relevant contest:
Find and select upcoming MotoGP games: Review PrizePicks’ sports offerings and select MotoGP. Next, identify an upcoming game or event that interests you.
Use the search button to save time: If you have a specific player whose performance you would like to predict, use the search bar to find them quickly.
5. Pick 2–6 Rider Stats and Predict Performance
Unlike Underdig Fantasy, a PrizePick contest needs 2-6 picks. The process below applies:
Review and choose applicable stats: Check the available MotoGP rider statistics and select 2-6 options.
Predict performance: Based on updated information, choose whether the riders will exceed or fall below the set thresholds. Click on the three dots next to their projections or visit our MotoGP page for the latest updates, data, and insights.
Like NXTbets, PrizePicks allows you to insure your DFS predictions using its Flex Play mode. It is a safer alternative as the platform pays you even if one or two picks are incorrect. Alternatively, you can choose the Power Play option if you are confident enough. All your picks must be correct to enjoy a Power Play payout.
6. Submit Your Entry and Track Results
Observe DFS deadlines to avoid being locked out. To submit your entry:
Choose the entry fees: PrizePicks has a $1 minimum fee. While keeping within your budget or a predetermined spending limit, select the entry fees, review your potential payout, and make necessary fee adjustments, if any.
Review your selections: Review your selections once more and adjust them based on changing occurrences or relevant updates.
Submit your picks: If you are sure of your picks, enter the MotoGP DFS contest before you run out of time.
Track Results: You can watch the race or chat with other players on the platform’s Discord channel. You can also check your account occasionally for live score updates.
Effective Strategies for MotoGP DFS in California
DFS success requires strategic gameplay. You should analyze rider and track data, examine track conditions, and effectively manage your bankroll, as explained below:
Analyze Rider and Track Data
When building a lineup or entering a contest, you need accurate, in-depth data (for informed decision-making). Therefore:
Research and consider a rider’s performance history when creating a lineup: Your picks should feature consistent performers.
Research the rider’s performance at specific tracks: Some riders perform better in certain circuits or excel in particular weather conditions.
Using data-driven insights can help you make smart decisions.
Focus on Track Conditions
Weather and track conditions significantly influence MotoGP race outcomes, as explained below:
Rainy weather conditions affect grip, favoring riders experienced in competing in wet conditions.
Tracks differ in features and structures: Riders may perform differently in straight or technical tracks as both require varying abilities.
To be safe, check the race-day weather forecasts and adjust your lineup accordingly. Tracking drivers’ past performance records in similar weather conditions may help.
Manage Your Bankroll
Bankroll management is the cornerstone for safe gaming. Therefore:
Set a budget for DFS contests: Your budget should be based on your financial ability and risk tolerance.
Avoid overspending on a single contest or tournament: Set a fixed amount for every competition or tournament (based on your budget) for sustainable gaming.
Effective bankroll management allows you to participate in several contests without risking your entire bankroll on a single contest.
Conclusion
MotoGP DFS offers a legally-acceptable way for California MotoGP fans to enjoy races and events. All you need to do is register with a safe, regulated platform like Underdog DFS or PrizePicks and enter relevant contests based on your preferences. We urge you to research extensively and observe safe gaming practices when engaging in DFS contests. At NXTbets, we promise to furnish you with all the necessary data and insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for expert sports gaming insights, exclusive offers, and legal updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is MotoGP DFS Legal in California?
Yes. Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is legal in California, but not gambling or traditional sports betting. DFS operates under a different legal framework, allowing California residents to participate in enjoyable contests.
How Do I Sign Up For Underdog Fantasy in California?
Signing up for Underdog Fantasy is a relaxed process that shouldn’t take much of your time. Just visit the Underdog Fantasy website, register, make your first deposit, and verify your account. Then, you will be ready to go. The signup process won’t take much of your time as the platform has a user-friendly design.
What Deposit Methods Are Available for California Users?
Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks offer secure and easy-to-use deposit methods, i.e., PayPal, bank transfers, and credit/ debit cards.
How Can I Improve My Chances of Winning MotoGP DFS?
You can improve your chances of winning MotoGP DFS by combining your MotoGP knowledge with analyzing rider and track data, managing your bankroll effectively, and monitoring weather conditions.
Does Underdog Fantasy Offer Promotions for New Users in California?
Yes. Underdog Fantasy offers signup promotions, such as deposit matches, for new users. Ensure you enter relevant promotional codes during registration to qualify for the platform’s generous offers. Additionally, stay put for ongoing promotions and bonuses.
Is There a Mobile App for Underdog Fantasy in California?
Yes. Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks have mobile applications applications for both Android and iOS users. Download the relevant application to register, create lineups, enter contests, and track your DFS performance.
How Do I Withdraw Winnings from Underdog Fantasy?
To withdraw winnings from Underdog Fantasy contests, locate the platform’s Withdrawal section and choose your preferred method. The withdrawal duration differs from one method to the next, so choose PayPal for timely withdrawals.
What Should I Do If I Have Issues with My Account?
You can contact Underdog Fantasy’s customer support team through email or live chat for withdrawal, deposit, and account verification issues. You can also check the FAQ section for common concerns.
Victoria’s Allan Labor Government formally rejected a request from MotoGP Sports Entertainment (formerly Dorna Sports, also referred to as MotoGP Sports Entertainment SL) to move the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix from Phillip Island to Melbourne’s Albert Park, and tied extra state funding to keeping the race at Phillip Island beyond 2026. The government said the event was “synonymous with Phillip Island,” and framed the Grand Prix as vital for tourism, local businesses and jobs. It conditioned any additional cash to upgrade facilities on MotoGP committing to keep the event at Phillip Island, a move that has effectively closed off an immediate relocation to Albert Park.
The decision came as the existing contract between Dorna and the state is due to expire at the end of 2026. Dorna had argued Phillip Island did not meet current World Championship infrastructure standards, and reports in late 2025 showed the promoter was keen to relocate. Attendance weakened in 2025, with the Australian round among five grands prix that had weekend crowds under 100,000, and supporters launched a petition in late 2025 to keep the race at Phillip Island. The government’s backing included references to a proposed cash injection — the pledged amount and whether it was accepted were not confirmed in reports — and Phillip Island has hosted the Australian MotoGP 29 times.
Local politicians and officials welcomed the decision. Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos called Phillip Island the “home of the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix,” Bass Coast Mayor Rochelle Halstead said she hoped any investment would be directed toward facility upgrades to meet standards, and Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said Labor would defend the Bass Coast’s interests. The announcement kept the current contract timeline intact while signaling Victoria’s willingness to upgrade and financially back the race so long as it remains at Phillip Island, even as other jurisdictions such as South Australia and the Bend motorsport complex have been reported as interested in hosting the event in the future.
Yamaha’s new V4 engine suffered unexpected failures at the Sepang pre-season test, forcing a safety-first shutdown of factory running and disrupting the team’s program. An unforeseen fault first appeared on one of Fabio Quartararo’s bikes after his opening-day crash and was followed by a separate engine breakage on Toprak Razgatlioglu’s machine. Yamaha described the problem as something “we never had,” halting Wednesday’s running while engineers investigated, and kept garage doors closed as a precaution.
Engineers initially could not find the cause, but later identified the issue and allowed limited on-track activity, running the V4s with reduced power and rev limits to protect riders and equipment. The team removed long 60-70 lap runs and focused on ergonomics and sprint work. Yamaha intends to bring replacement engines ahead of the next two-day pre-season test at Buriram on February 21-22 to verify fixes and assess whether the imposed limits can be lifted, and warned that ambient temperatures above 30°C may exacerbate the faults.
The engine problems, combined with Quartararo’s crash, intensified scrutiny around the test. Spanish reports that Quartararo has decided not to renew with Yamaha, and instead reached an agreement with Honda, remain unconfirmed. The French rider has publicly denied signing for Honda while acknowledging he is in discussions. Team director Massimo Meregalli said the Sepang interruption was an unexpected delay that pushed some evaluations and contract talks toward the next test rather than changing decisions about Quartararo’s future. Alex Rins, the only factory Yamaha rider present, said the issue appeared under control and still managed his quickest laps of the test.
Multiple reports say Pramac and Yamaha are preparing to promote Moto2 rider Izan Guevara to MotoGP for 2027. The move is described as provisional but close to being signed and is expected to be finalized before the summer break. Federico Zamagni reported Guevara’s Blu Cru contract contains a clause that could allow or compel a move to Pramac if he delivers “the right result” at the Catalan Grand Prix, a threshold Zamagni describes as securing the points needed to take the Moto2 championship lead. If activated, that scenario would likely displace Jack Miller at Pramac and leave Miller’s immediate future uncertain.
Reports give Guevara’s age as either 21, turning 22 next month, or 22. He extended his Yamaha contract through the end of 2027 and has built momentum on track: he won the 2025 Valencia Moto2 Grand Prix, and this season he has taken three podiums in the opening five rounds including a victory at Le Mans, leaving him second in the Moto2 riders’ standings. An impressive private test on a Yamaha M1, earlier Yamaha YZR-M1 testing and his involvement in Yamaha’s Moto2 project, backed by Pramac manager Gino Borsoi, are cited as factors behind the planned promotion.
Coverage of Yamaha’s intended 2027 reshuffle, reportedly overseen by managing director Paolo Pavesio, says Guevara would join Pramac alongside Toprak Razgatlioglu, with Jorge Martin and Ai Ogura in factory Yamaha seats. Some reports add that Alex Rins could leave and former factory rider Fabio Quartararo might move to Honda. That coverage also notes Jack Miller’s dip in competitiveness, no wins since 2022, currently last among full-time riders and outscored 5-0 by rookie teammate Toprak, though Miller posted one of his strongest Friday practice sessions at Catalonia and said, “I’m sick and f**king tired of being at the back.”
Pedro Acosta demanded answers from KTM after repeated technical failures at the Czech Grand Prix in Brno left him with nothing to show for a weekend that began with promising pace. Acosta said the team needed to send the bike back to the factory to find out why the same problem kept happening, and the run of issues ended his streak of scoring in every race so far this season.
The trouble started in Friday practice, when his KTM broke down. On Saturday, a problem with the rear holeshot device on his bike distracted him through the Sprint, and Acosta said he crashed on lap 6 while trying to free it. He started the race from eighth and said his pace was still good enough to fight for a top-five finish, before apologizing to the team and calling the problem a mechanical-sport issue that needed analysis.
Acosta said the Sunday failure was the same as the Friday issue. He was running in fifth place and managing front tire pressure by dropping behind Fabio Di Giannantonio and then Joan Mir before his KTM RC16 cut out on the final lap at Turn 1. Acosta said the race lasted one lap too long and insisted KTM should provide answers. Earlier on Friday, after finishing sixth as the top KTM rider, he had also criticized the team’s one-bike setup as a safety concern if a crash or mechanical problem happened during practice.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in California
California is among the few states in the United States yet to legalize gambling. However, if you are a motorsports enthusiast in California looking for a better way to engage with MotoGP, we recommend Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). It is often classified as a game of skill rather than chance, hence allowed even in regions prohibiting sports betting. Platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks operate legally in California, allowing players to enjoy Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) contests.
At NXTbets, we take great pride in being a trusted source for MotoGP data, insights, and picks. We also provide safe gaming resources for DFS participants so they can have a safe and enjoyable experience. Join us as we discuss how to play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks in California and a few strategies to guarantee success.
How to Register for Underdog Fantasy in California
To enjoy MotoGP DFS, create an account with Underdog Fantasy, known for its user-friendly interface and various DFS contests. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to create such an account:
Step 1: Visit the Underdog Fantasy Website
The first step to an exciting MotoGP DFS experience is to visit the Underdog Fantasy website or download its mobile application. Both are well-designed and easy to navigate, saving you time and effort. The home page showcases the featured contests, current promotions, and other exciting features.
Step 2: Create a New Account
This is where you open a new Underdog Fantasy account using the following steps:
Note: Underdog Fantasy offers signup bonuses or promotions for new DFS participants. Check the platform’s home page or NXTbets’ website before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Make Your First Deposit
The next step is to fund your account. While Underdog Fantasy does not offer several deposit options, you can make your first deposit through bank transfers, PayPal, or credit/bank cards. Remember, the platform mostly offers a deposit match-up bonus for first-time users, i.e., the more you deposit, the higher your deposit bonus will be. Once you understand the relevant signup bonus, deposit an amount that can help you maximize your rewards.
Step 4: Complete Account Verification
The fourth and last step is to verify your account. Underdog Fantasy requires new members to verify their accounts for security purposes and ensure they comply with legal regulations. The platform may require that you submit proof of identity and residency, such as your proof of address, passport, or government-issued ID. Always provide the required information quickly to secure your deposits and withdrawals.
How to Play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy
Now that you have an active Underdog Fantasy account, it’s time to enter your first contest. While the process may be simple, you must plan strategically. Here are the applicable steps:
Step 1: Choose a MotoGP Contest
Underdog Fantasy offers three main contests. However, only pick’em contests are available in MotoGP DFS gaming. In this contest, participants predict whether a rider will meet or fail to meet certain limits or achievements during the match or race. It can be easily adapted for MotoGP by targeting metrics such as finishing positions. You predict whether a rider will finish higher or lower than a certain position.
Step 2: Build Your DFS Playslip
A strong DFS lineup will increase your chances of winning DFS contests. For a great lineup:
Step 3: Monitor Your Contest Performance
Once you have prepared a lineup and entered into a contest, it’s time to monitor your performance. Fortunately, Underdog Fantasy offers real-time updates on contest standings and rider performance, allowing you to track their progress throughout the event. Monitor factors likely to affect your MotoGP DFS score, such as the laps led, finishing position, and fastest laps.
Note: Underdog Fantasy does not allow you to alter your lineup once the race begins. Therefore, always counter check your picks before submitting them or entering a contest.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing MotoGP DFS on PrizePicks in California
Like NXTbets, PrizePicks also has competitive MotoGP DFS contests. Follow the steps below to play:
1. Create an Account Using a Valid Email
The first step is to register for PrizePicks as follows:
Confirm if your details are correct and submit them. Providing the right information is crucial for the next step.
2. Complete Identity Verification
Next, confirm you meet PrizePicks’ user requirements and eligibility by verifying your identity. The process below applies:
Contact customer support if you encounter any issues during the ID verification process.
3. Deposit at Least $10 Using Your Preferred Method
Fund your account to activate it and play. Use the steps below:
Some payment methods, like debit/credit cards, have instant deposits.
4. Choose MotoGP Contests
You can now officially begin playing MotoGP DFS. For the relevant contest:
5. Pick 2–6 Rider Stats and Predict Performance
Unlike Underdig Fantasy, a PrizePick contest needs 2-6 picks. The process below applies:
Like NXTbets, PrizePicks allows you to insure your DFS predictions using its Flex Play mode. It is a safer alternative as the platform pays you even if one or two picks are incorrect. Alternatively, you can choose the Power Play option if you are confident enough. All your picks must be correct to enjoy a Power Play payout.
6. Submit Your Entry and Track Results
Observe DFS deadlines to avoid being locked out. To submit your entry:
Effective Strategies for MotoGP DFS in California
DFS success requires strategic gameplay. You should analyze rider and track data, examine track conditions, and effectively manage your bankroll, as explained below:
Analyze Rider and Track Data
When building a lineup or entering a contest, you need accurate, in-depth data (for informed decision-making). Therefore:
Using data-driven insights can help you make smart decisions.
Focus on Track Conditions
Weather and track conditions significantly influence MotoGP race outcomes, as explained below:
To be safe, check the race-day weather forecasts and adjust your lineup accordingly. Tracking drivers’ past performance records in similar weather conditions may help.
Manage Your Bankroll
Bankroll management is the cornerstone for safe gaming. Therefore:
Effective bankroll management allows you to participate in several contests without risking your entire bankroll on a single contest.
Conclusion
MotoGP DFS offers a legally-acceptable way for California MotoGP fans to enjoy races and events. All you need to do is register with a safe, regulated platform like Underdog DFS or PrizePicks and enter relevant contests based on your preferences. We urge you to research extensively and observe safe gaming practices when engaging in DFS contests. At NXTbets, we promise to furnish you with all the necessary data and insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for expert sports gaming insights, exclusive offers, and legal updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is legal in California, but not gambling or traditional sports betting. DFS operates under a different legal framework, allowing California residents to participate in enjoyable contests.
Signing up for Underdog Fantasy is a relaxed process that shouldn’t take much of your time. Just visit the Underdog Fantasy website, register, make your first deposit, and verify your account. Then, you will be ready to go. The signup process won’t take much of your time as the platform has a user-friendly design.
Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks offer secure and easy-to-use deposit methods, i.e., PayPal, bank transfers, and credit/ debit cards.
You can improve your chances of winning MotoGP DFS by combining your MotoGP knowledge with analyzing rider and track data, managing your bankroll effectively, and monitoring weather conditions.
Yes. Underdog Fantasy offers signup promotions, such as deposit matches, for new users. Ensure you enter relevant promotional codes during registration to qualify for the platform’s generous offers. Additionally, stay put for ongoing promotions and bonuses.
Yes. Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks have mobile applications applications for both Android and iOS users. Download the relevant application to register, create lineups, enter contests, and track your DFS performance.
To withdraw winnings from Underdog Fantasy contests, locate the platform’s Withdrawal section and choose your preferred method. The withdrawal duration differs from one method to the next, so choose PayPal for timely withdrawals.
You can contact Underdog Fantasy’s customer support team through email or live chat for withdrawal, deposit, and account verification issues. You can also check the FAQ section for common concerns.
Related Posts
Labor Links Venue Funding to MotoGP at Phillip Island
Victoria’s Allan Labor Government formally rejected a request from MotoGP Sports Entertainment (formerly Dorna Sports, also referred to as MotoGP Sports Entertainment SL) to move the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix from Phillip Island to Melbourne’s Albert Park, and tied extra state funding to keeping the race at Phillip Island beyond 2026. The government said the event was “synonymous with Phillip Island,” and framed the Grand Prix as vital for tourism, local businesses and jobs. It conditioned any additional cash to upgrade facilities on MotoGP committing to keep the event at Phillip Island, a move that has effectively closed off an immediate relocation to Albert Park.
The decision came as the existing contract between Dorna and the state is due to expire at the end of 2026. Dorna had argued Phillip Island did not meet current World Championship infrastructure standards, and reports in late 2025 showed the promoter was keen to relocate. Attendance weakened in 2025, with the Australian round among five grands prix that had weekend crowds under 100,000, and supporters launched a petition in late 2025 to keep the race at Phillip Island. The government’s backing included references to a proposed cash injection — the pledged amount and whether it was accepted were not confirmed in reports — and Phillip Island has hosted the Australian MotoGP 29 times.
Local politicians and officials welcomed the decision. Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos called Phillip Island the “home of the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix,” Bass Coast Mayor Rochelle Halstead said she hoped any investment would be directed toward facility upgrades to meet standards, and Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said Labor would defend the Bass Coast’s interests. The announcement kept the current contract timeline intact while signaling Victoria’s willingness to upgrade and financially back the race so long as it remains at Phillip Island, even as other jurisdictions such as South Australia and the Bend motorsport complex have been reported as interested in hosting the event in the future.
Yamaha Finds V4 Fault at Sepang, Limits Power in Testing
Yamaha’s new V4 engine suffered unexpected failures at the Sepang pre-season test, forcing a safety-first shutdown of factory running and disrupting the team’s program. An unforeseen fault first appeared on one of Fabio Quartararo’s bikes after his opening-day crash and was followed by a separate engine breakage on Toprak Razgatlioglu’s machine. Yamaha described the problem as something “we never had,” halting Wednesday’s running while engineers investigated, and kept garage doors closed as a precaution.
Engineers initially could not find the cause, but later identified the issue and allowed limited on-track activity, running the V4s with reduced power and rev limits to protect riders and equipment. The team removed long 60-70 lap runs and focused on ergonomics and sprint work. Yamaha intends to bring replacement engines ahead of the next two-day pre-season test at Buriram on February 21-22 to verify fixes and assess whether the imposed limits can be lifted, and warned that ambient temperatures above 30°C may exacerbate the faults.
The engine problems, combined with Quartararo’s crash, intensified scrutiny around the test. Spanish reports that Quartararo has decided not to renew with Yamaha, and instead reached an agreement with Honda, remain unconfirmed. The French rider has publicly denied signing for Honda while acknowledging he is in discussions. Team director Massimo Meregalli said the Sepang interruption was an unexpected delay that pushed some evaluations and contract talks toward the next test rather than changing decisions about Quartararo’s future. Alex Rins, the only factory Yamaha rider present, said the issue appeared under control and still managed his quickest laps of the test.
Guevara poised to join Pramac as Yamaha maps 2027 lineup
Multiple reports say Pramac and Yamaha are preparing to promote Moto2 rider Izan Guevara to MotoGP for 2027. The move is described as provisional but close to being signed and is expected to be finalized before the summer break. Federico Zamagni reported Guevara’s Blu Cru contract contains a clause that could allow or compel a move to Pramac if he delivers “the right result” at the Catalan Grand Prix, a threshold Zamagni describes as securing the points needed to take the Moto2 championship lead. If activated, that scenario would likely displace Jack Miller at Pramac and leave Miller’s immediate future uncertain.
Reports give Guevara’s age as either 21, turning 22 next month, or 22. He extended his Yamaha contract through the end of 2027 and has built momentum on track: he won the 2025 Valencia Moto2 Grand Prix, and this season he has taken three podiums in the opening five rounds including a victory at Le Mans, leaving him second in the Moto2 riders’ standings. An impressive private test on a Yamaha M1, earlier Yamaha YZR-M1 testing and his involvement in Yamaha’s Moto2 project, backed by Pramac manager Gino Borsoi, are cited as factors behind the planned promotion.
Coverage of Yamaha’s intended 2027 reshuffle, reportedly overseen by managing director Paolo Pavesio, says Guevara would join Pramac alongside Toprak Razgatlioglu, with Jorge Martin and Ai Ogura in factory Yamaha seats. Some reports add that Alex Rins could leave and former factory rider Fabio Quartararo might move to Honda. That coverage also notes Jack Miller’s dip in competitiveness, no wins since 2022, currently last among full-time riders and outscored 5-0 by rookie teammate Toprak, though Miller posted one of his strongest Friday practice sessions at Catalonia and said, “I’m sick and f**king tired of being at the back.”
Acosta says KTM must send bike back after repeated failures
Pedro Acosta demanded answers from KTM after repeated technical failures at the Czech Grand Prix in Brno left him with nothing to show for a weekend that began with promising pace. Acosta said the team needed to send the bike back to the factory to find out why the same problem kept happening, and the run of issues ended his streak of scoring in every race so far this season.
The trouble started in Friday practice, when his KTM broke down. On Saturday, a problem with the rear holeshot device on his bike distracted him through the Sprint, and Acosta said he crashed on lap 6 while trying to free it. He started the race from eighth and said his pace was still good enough to fight for a top-five finish, before apologizing to the team and calling the problem a mechanical-sport issue that needed analysis.
Acosta said the Sunday failure was the same as the Friday issue. He was running in fifth place and managing front tire pressure by dropping behind Fabio Di Giannantonio and then Joan Mir before his KTM RC16 cut out on the final lap at Turn 1. Acosta said the race lasted one lap too long and insisted KTM should provide answers. Earlier on Friday, after finishing sixth as the top KTM rider, he had also criticized the team’s one-bike setup as a safety concern if a crash or mechanical problem happened during practice.