Missouri legalized sports betting recently. However, it has yet to roll out despite the state lifting the ban. Missouri motorsports enthusiasts and fans wishing to deepen their engagement with MotoGP races, athletes, and events should consider Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). Fortunately, Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks operate legally within the state, allowing residents to enjoy simple, exciting DFS contests. Today may be your lucky day if you reside in Missouri— we will help you join other Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks users today for an unbeatable gaming experience.
At NXTbets, we understand how Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) has impacted sports viewership and engagement in the US. We offer a range of resources, including in-depth blogs, to help DFS players learn more about their favorite sports and enhance their experience. Join us as we explore how to play MotoGP DFS in Missouri.
Legal Considerations: Is MotoGP DFS Legal in Missouri
Let’s review Missouri’s legal DFS landscape before exploring how to begin your real-money wagering journey with the platform.
Missouri’s Legal Framework for Real Money Gaming
Missouri is among the few states explicitly legalizing Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). In 2016, it passed the Missouri Fantasy Sports Consumers Protection Act, which recognizes and regulates DFS contests. DFS platforms like Underdog Fantasy must operate according to the Act’s provisions to ensure a safe, fair, and responsible environment for Missouri fans.
Underdog Fantasy’s Compliance with Missouri’s Laws
Underdog Fantasy adheres to Missouri’s fantasy sports standards. It verifies every new user’s identity and ensures players comply with its terms of use and local regulations. Register for an Underdog Fantasy account today for a safe, secure, and regulated DFS experience.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in Missouri: Step-by-Step Guide
Missouri residents should join the growing population of DFS gamers by signing up with Underdog Fantasy. Follow the steps below to begin your MotoGP Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) journey:
Step 1: Sign Up for Underdog Fantasy Account
Visit the official Underdog Fantasy website. Alternatively, you can download the mobile application from your App Store (iOS) or Play Store (Android).
Click on sign up and create an account by entering relevant details, such as username, password, and email address. Remember to enter promo code ‘NXTBETS’ to claim the deposit bonus and review the terms of use to ascertain your eligibility.
You can verify your identity by providing additional information or uploading a government-issued ID. You may also need to turn on your phone’s location services to verify your location.
Step 2: Fund Your Account and Explore Promotions
Next, activate your account by making a qualifying deposit.
Navigate to your account’s deposit section and choose your preferred payment method. Underdog Fantasy recognizes credit/debit cards and PayPal—pick the most convenient.
Enter relevant payment information, such as your PayPal logins or credit/debit card details.
Make a qualifying deposit. Underdog Fantasy has a $10 minimum deposit bonus. Its signup bonus matches users’ initial deposits, meaning the larger the deposit, the more lucrative the offer.
The right promo code and deposit amount can earn you a deposit bonus of up to $1,000.
Step 3: Explore MotoGP Contests on Underdog Fantasy
After funding your account and claiming the deposit bonus, it’s time to focus on relevant contests.
Understand how Underdog Fantasy contests work. This will help you identify the right DFS contests.
Navigate to the Pick’em tab to access DFS contests.
Narrow your search to MotoGP contests using the right keywords.
Browse the listed contests. Consider relevant aspects like the set projections when choosing one.
Do not rush through this step. Take your time and carefully analyze every contest before choosing one.
Step 4: Making Better/Worse Predictions for MotoGP
Follow the process below after choosing the right MotoGP DFS contest:
Select riders. While contests may have different rules, you need a minimum of 3 picks per entry. Observe each contest’s minimum and maximum limits.
Make your predictions. Decide whether each rider will exceed (better) or fall below (worse) a given statistic or position. Every pick should be supported by adequate research and analysis. Consider rider performance history, track-specific conditions, and race-related factors like last-minute changes.
Step 5: Submit Your Entries and Track Your Results
It’s time to enter your chosen DFS contest by submitting entries. The following process applies:
Review your picks for accuracy. Unfortunately, Underdog Fantasy entries are somehow final. The platform rarely allows DFS players to alter their entries after submission.
Understand the payout structure. Check how the contest is prized just below your selections. Understanding your potential payout is crucial for performance evaluation.
If satisfied, submit your entries. After reviewing and confirming your picks, click the relevant button to enter the contest.
Remember to monitor your picks during the race. Fortunately, Underdog Fantasy has a live tracking feature that updates users on their results. Stay composed, trust your strategy, and make wise decisions.
Step 6: Withdraw Winnings
You can win or lose your DFS contest like in any other competition. Underdog Fantasy will credit the accrued payout to your Underdog Fantasy account if you win and retain your entry fees if you lose. Use the steps below to access your winnings:
Navigate to your account’s withdrawal section and review the relevant options.
Choose the most convenient withdrawal method. You can either use PayPal or bank transfer.
Follow subsequent instructions to claim your winnings.
Alternatively, you can boost your bankroll or reinvest your winnings by retaining part (or all) of them. Do not feel defeated if you lose. Instead, review your performance, picks, and strategy and adjust for future success.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing MotoGP DFS on PrizePicks in Missouri
Alternatively, Missouri residents can play MotoGP DFS on PrizePicks. Below are the relevant steps:
1. Create an Account and Verify Eligibility
The first step is to create an account and verify your eligibility. The following process applies:
Sign up with the platform: Click the sign-up button on the official website or mobile application and enter the relevant details. Besides your personal information, remember to include an applicable promo code (enter “NXT” for $50 for your first $5 entry). Review the information for accuracy before submitting it.
Verify your eligibility: Like Underdog Fantasy, PrizePicks verifies every new user’s identity and eligibility for regulatory compliance and to uphold user and data privacy. Provide the required information promptly and upload the requested legal ID.
2. Fund Your Account with $10+
The next step is to activate your account through a qualifying deposit. The following apply:
Choose a payment method: Tap the sign-up button (+) on the top right corner and choose a deposit method. You can load your account through PayPal, credit/debit cards, online banking, and Venmo. Choose what works for you.
Make the deposit: Input the relevant payment details and select the deposit amount. Remember, PrizePicks has a $10 initial deposit limit.
3. Choose MotoGP
Like Underdog Fantasy, PrizePicks offers Daily Fantasy Sports contests on several sports. Therefore:
Check out the listed sports at the upper part of the page.
Choose MotoGP to access upcoming races or contests.
4. Select 2–6 Rider Stat Lines
Unlike Underdog Fantasy, PrizePicks only offers one type of Pick’em contest: betting on player stat lines. For this fourth step:
Choose an upcoming race and review the included player stats. Alternatively, use the search bar if looking for a specific player’s stats.
Pick 2-6 stats: You can minimize risks by choosing 2-3 stats or maximize your payout potential by selecting more. However, consider your experience and skill level.
5. Predict Possible Outcomes
Once you have selected your player lines, it’s time to make predictions. Follow the steps below:
Conduct extensive research: Consider and research every factor likely to affect rider performance.
Predict outcomes: Based on your research, predict whether the driver will exceed or fall below the stat projections.
Click on the three dots/lines next to every rider’s projection to see their performance and averages in the last five games.
6. Submit Picks with Chosen Play Type
Before submitting your DFS picks:
Select a play type: Choose between Power or Flex Play. Pick Power Play if you are confident enough, as all your picks must be accurate to win. Both the risk and payout are high. If you are not sure about some of your picks, choose Flex Play. You will still receive a payout even if 1 or 2 are inaccurate.
Select the entry fee: Choose how much you want to spend on the contest, subject to your budget or spending limits. Remember, PrizsePicks has a $1 minimum spending limit.
Review your selections: Ensure your picks are accurate. Feel free to make necessary adjustments based on relevant news and updates.
Monitor your performance once you submit your picks. You can watch the race, chat with other DFS players on the platform’s Discord channel, or check out NXTbets’ real-time sports updates.
DFS Offers for Missouri Residents
DFS platforms offer regular promos to entice new and existing users. Always claim relevant offers to improve your bankroll and maximize your profitability.
Promotions for Missouri Players
Here are a few promos Missouri players should consider to enhance their Underdog DFS experience:
Welcome bonuses: New eligible Underdog Fantasy users can earn a deposit match of up to $1,000. To claim this deposit bonus, enter a valid promo code when signing up and then make a qualifying deposit.
Ongoing promos: Existing Underdog Fantasy users enjoy regular promos like free contests, Pick’em rescues, and discount player promos. Check out NXTbets or your Underdog Fantasy’s promotions page for these bonuses.
Understanding the Terms and Conditions of Missouri DFS Offers
To maximize your DFS bonus, you should review the accompanying terms and conditions. Here are some:
Minimum deposit requirement: New Underdog Fantasy users must deposit at least $10 to qualify for the platform’s sign-up bonus.
Eligibility: Some offers, especially free entries, apply to specific sports or contests.
Wagering requirements: Check the applicable requirements before claiming an Underdog Fantasy bonus. You can only access your bonus winnings after meeting wagering requirements
Conclusion
Are you a MotoGP fan in Missouri looking for a new or more exciting experience? Look no further— Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is freely available within the state. To begin your DFS journey, sign up with Underdog Fantasy or PrizePicks, verify your identity, fund your account, and explore relevant contests. Remember toplay responsibly for a successful, sustainable, or long-term experience.
What Types of Contests Can I Enter for MotoGP on Underdog Fantasy?
Enter the right Pick’em contest on Underdog Fantasy to participate in MotoGP DFS. Underdog’s DFS format requires users to choose whether select athletes will perform “better” or “worse” than set stats or projections.
How Do I Make a Better/Worse Prediction for MotoGP Events?
Better/worse predictions are quite straightforward. All you need to do is choose riders and predict whether their performance will exceed (better) or fall below (lower) certain benchmarks. For informed predictions, analyze riders’ historical performance (including on specific tracks), track conditions, and relevant race-related factors.
Can I Withdraw My Winnings from Underdog Fantasy in Missouri?
Yes. Once the platform credits your account, you can withdraw your Underdog Fantasy winnings in Missouri. Navigate to the withdrawal page, choose a payment method, and follow subsequent instructions to withdraw your funds. Underdog Fantasy uses PayPal or bank transfers to process withdrawals. Use PayPal for faster withdrawals.
Are There Any Special Promotions for Missouri Residents on Underdog Fantasy?
Underdog Fantasy often offers enticing bonuses to attract new users and keep existing ones engaged. Missouri residents and MotoGP fans should check out its deposit bonus and free entries.
How Many Picks Do I Need to Make for a MotoGP DFS Contest?
While some contests have specific rules and requirements, Underdog Fantasy players mostly need 3-8 picks per entry. Check out the applicable contest rules for an accurate number.
What Strategies Should I Use to Increase My Chances of Winning?
Unlike sports betting, most states regard Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) as skill-based, which explains its unique classification. Players need tact and thoughtful strategies for enhanced success. To increase their chances of success, base their predictions on relevant rider stats, track conditions, and performance trends.
Is Formula 1 DFS Legal in Kentucky?
Yes. Kentucky state law does not inhibit DFS gaming. You can enjoy Formula 1 DFS contests if you sign up with Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks.
What is the Best Way to Pick Formula 1 DFS Drivers?
For a successful Formula 1 DFS game on Underdog Fantasy, study recent driver performance and circuit history, choose value picks, and balance your plays with top performers and high-potential underdogs.For PrizePicks, review the integrated stats and averages with other relevant factors.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Ducati’s recent slump — centered on worsening front-end and braking performance — has become a clear wake-up call that has forced urgent setup and development work, team and industry figures said. Factory general manager Gigi Dall’Igna described the lackluster weekend in Austin as a wake-up call and warned the team must work hard on setup and development to regain winning form.
Engineers and riders pointed to a loss of front-end grip and weaker braking and corner-entry performance versus the Aprilia RS-GP; those problems have cost Ducati tire life and race pace and have materially affected early 2026 results.
Marc Márquez’s future in MotoGP is uncertain as he balances recovery from repeated, serious injuries with ongoing contract negotiations. He has said, “I know I’ll be ending my sporting career on two wheels,” described himself as being in his “final dance,” and acknowledged he is “limited more by my body than by my mind.” He also says renewal talks with Ducati “are going well,” but there is no concrete news; reports say his current deal is expiring, he has requested a one-plus-one contract rather than a long-term deal, and he plans to wait until he is fully recovered before deciding.
Márquez’s caution is rooted in a difficult medical history. He underwent four major operations over two years after a 2020 right humerus fracture. In 2025 he suffered a season-ending shoulder problem — including a coracoid fracture, ligament damage and a broken collarbone — after being taken out at Mandalika by Marco Bezzecchi; that incident required surgery in October. He returned to a MotoGP machine at the Sepang test in February and made his racing comeback at the Thailand Grand Prix, where he finished second in the sprint before a tire failure ended a Grand Prix podium bid. He continues extra training and physiotherapy.
Outside observers differ on how long Márquez will continue. Former rider Alex Barros suggested Márquez could consider retirement even if he defends the 2026 title, citing lingering shoulder issues and the potential arrival of Pedro Acosta at Ducati in 2027, while framing that view as speculation. Promoter and pundit Carlo Pernat said he saw “fear” in Márquez’s eyes after recent injuries but predicted he would race “another year or two,” noting the rider remains fast enough to beat most rivals while warning that rising talents such as Acosta could reshape the rivalry ahead. Despite the setbacks, Márquez remains competitive for Ducati, having secured his seventh MotoGP title in 2025 and becoming the oldest rider to claim the championship.
Marco Bezzecchi produced a lights-to-flag masterclass at the 2026 MotoGP United States Grand Prix in Austin, but the race’s defining moment came on the opening lap when he and Pedro Acosta made contact exiting Turn 11 while fighting for the lead. Bezzecchi emerged from the clash ahead despite chunks of bodywork and rear aero damage, and race stewards chose not to open an investigation. Both riders downplayed the incident as hard, competitive racing—Acosta calling it “hard racing” and pointing to gusting wind and having run wide as contributory factors—and neither assigned blame.
Bezzecchi led every lap to claim his fifth straight premier-class victory and reclaimed the championship lead, with teammate Jorge Martin recovering to finish second and complete an Aprilia 1-2 at COTA. Pedro Acosta recovered to third for Red Bull KTM and remained the top non-Aprilia rider; after the weekend Bezzecchi sat on 81 points to Martin’s 77 and Acosta on 60. Bezzecchi won by roughly two seconds (Martin finishing about 2.036s back), and the result shifted momentum at the front of the 2026 title fight.
The Italian had started fourth, muscled past early leader Acosta on lap one and then upped his pace from around lap six to open a gap of more than a second as he controlled the race to the flag. He had topped the brief warm-up earlier in the day and had crashed out of the Sprint while running second, underlining how close he had been to the limit over the weekend. Several reports credited Bezzecchi with setting a modern-era mark for consecutive laps led—citing 121 laps and noting he surpassed Jorge Lorenzo’s previous benchmark—though one account attributed that 121-figure to Acosta, so sources vary on which rider holds that specific tally.
MotoGP returns to Mugello for the Brembo GP of Italy this weekend. Ducati Lenovo said Marc Marquez has been medically cleared to race but will be reassessed after FP1 to confirm he can continue, following a right-foot fracture and surgery earlier this month and a recent operation to remove a loose screw from his right shoulder. Luca Marini said he is fit and ready after missing the 2025 Mugello with a testing injury and rejected Ducati’s suggestion he become a test rider, saying, “Right now, being a test rider isn’t what I want.” Jorge Martín said he feels ready to tackle Mugello but not fully recovered after several crashes in Barcelona, adding, “At Mugello, you’ve got to show your attributes!”
The championship picture raises the stakes. Marco Bezzecchi leads the standings by 15 points over teammate Jorge Martín after Barcelona, with Aprilia running four bikes inside the top six overall. Fabio Di Giannantonio arrives off his second MotoGP win in Barcelona. Francesco Bagnaia is a three-time Mugello winner (2022–24) and finished third in Barcelona. Pedro Acosta took pole in Barcelona, narrowly missed the Sprint win and was taken out on Sunday, but remains within striking distance of the title.
Injury absences and lineup changes continue to affect the grid. Alex Marquez fractured his C7 vertebra in the Catalan incident and will be replaced in Italy by test rider Michele Pirro. Johann Zarco suffered knee ligament damage in the same crash and will miss Mugello; Cal Crutchlow will step in for Italy. Zarco will also miss the Suzuka 8 Hours and be replaced there by Somkiat Chantra. Marini plans to start the Mugello weekend on a setup similar to his Barcelona configuration, aiming to reach the top ten in pre-qualifying and shift the weekend’s momentum. He prefers dry conditions while acknowledging Honda’s strengths in the wet, and he has a Safety Commission meeting scheduled with other riders, including Bagnaia and Bezzecchi, to discuss rider representation.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in Missouri
Missouri legalized sports betting recently. However, it has yet to roll out despite the state lifting the ban. Missouri motorsports enthusiasts and fans wishing to deepen their engagement with MotoGP races, athletes, and events should consider Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). Fortunately, Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks operate legally within the state, allowing residents to enjoy simple, exciting DFS contests. Today may be your lucky day if you reside in Missouri— we will help you join other Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks users today for an unbeatable gaming experience.
At NXTbets, we understand how Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) has impacted sports viewership and engagement in the US. We offer a range of resources, including in-depth blogs, to help DFS players learn more about their favorite sports and enhance their experience. Join us as we explore how to play MotoGP DFS in Missouri.
Legal Considerations: Is MotoGP DFS Legal in Missouri
Let’s review Missouri’s legal DFS landscape before exploring how to begin your real-money wagering journey with the platform.
Missouri’s Legal Framework for Real Money Gaming
Missouri is among the few states explicitly legalizing Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). In 2016, it passed the Missouri Fantasy Sports Consumers Protection Act, which recognizes and regulates DFS contests. DFS platforms like Underdog Fantasy must operate according to the Act’s provisions to ensure a safe, fair, and responsible environment for Missouri fans.
Underdog Fantasy’s Compliance with Missouri’s Laws
Underdog Fantasy adheres to Missouri’s fantasy sports standards. It verifies every new user’s identity and ensures players comply with its terms of use and local regulations. Register for an Underdog Fantasy account today for a safe, secure, and regulated DFS experience.
For a more comprehensive understanding of the legal framework, explore MotoGP betting laws.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in Missouri: Step-by-Step Guide
Missouri residents should join the growing population of DFS gamers by signing up with Underdog Fantasy. Follow the steps below to begin your MotoGP Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) journey:
Step 1: Sign Up for Underdog Fantasy Account
Step 2: Fund Your Account and Explore Promotions
Next, activate your account by making a qualifying deposit.
The right promo code and deposit amount can earn you a deposit bonus of up to $1,000.
Step 3: Explore MotoGP Contests on Underdog Fantasy
After funding your account and claiming the deposit bonus, it’s time to focus on relevant contests.
Do not rush through this step. Take your time and carefully analyze every contest before choosing one.
Step 4: Making Better/Worse Predictions for MotoGP
Follow the process below after choosing the right MotoGP DFS contest:
Use reputable platforms like NXTbets to obtain comprehensive MotoGP data, insights, and picks.
Step 5: Submit Your Entries and Track Your Results
It’s time to enter your chosen DFS contest by submitting entries. The following process applies:
Remember to monitor your picks during the race. Fortunately, Underdog Fantasy has a live tracking feature that updates users on their results. Stay composed, trust your strategy, and make wise decisions.
Step 6: Withdraw Winnings
You can win or lose your DFS contest like in any other competition. Underdog Fantasy will credit the accrued payout to your Underdog Fantasy account if you win and retain your entry fees if you lose. Use the steps below to access your winnings:
Alternatively, you can boost your bankroll or reinvest your winnings by retaining part (or all) of them. Do not feel defeated if you lose. Instead, review your performance, picks, and strategy and adjust for future success.
Also, explore this comprehensive guide on MotoGP betting. Check out this ultimate guide on how to bet on MotoGP.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing MotoGP DFS on PrizePicks in Missouri
Alternatively, Missouri residents can play MotoGP DFS on PrizePicks. Below are the relevant steps:
1. Create an Account and Verify Eligibility
The first step is to create an account and verify your eligibility. The following process applies:
2. Fund Your Account with $10+
The next step is to activate your account through a qualifying deposit. The following apply:
3. Choose MotoGP
Like Underdog Fantasy, PrizePicks offers Daily Fantasy Sports contests on several sports. Therefore:
4. Select 2–6 Rider Stat Lines
Unlike Underdog Fantasy, PrizePicks only offers one type of Pick’em contest: betting on player stat lines. For this fourth step:
5. Predict Possible Outcomes
Once you have selected your player lines, it’s time to make predictions. Follow the steps below:
Click on the three dots/lines next to every rider’s projection to see their performance and averages in the last five games.
6. Submit Picks with Chosen Play Type
Before submitting your DFS picks:
Monitor your performance once you submit your picks. You can watch the race, chat with other DFS players on the platform’s Discord channel, or check out NXTbets’ real-time sports updates.
DFS Offers for Missouri Residents
DFS platforms offer regular promos to entice new and existing users. Always claim relevant offers to improve your bankroll and maximize your profitability.
Promotions for Missouri Players
Here are a few promos Missouri players should consider to enhance their Underdog DFS experience:
Understanding the Terms and Conditions of Missouri DFS Offers
To maximize your DFS bonus, you should review the accompanying terms and conditions. Here are some:
Conclusion
Are you a MotoGP fan in Missouri looking for a new or more exciting experience? Look no further— Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is freely available within the state. To begin your DFS journey, sign up with Underdog Fantasy or PrizePicks, verify your identity, fund your account, and explore relevant contests. Remember to play responsibly for a successful, sustainable, or long-term experience.
NXTbets is a leading platform for real-time MotoGP data, insights, picks, and expert Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) resources. As you explore the thrill of Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS), subscribe to our newsletter for timely updates, exclusive offers, and expert insights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Enter the right Pick’em contest on Underdog Fantasy to participate in MotoGP DFS. Underdog’s DFS format requires users to choose whether select athletes will perform “better” or “worse” than set stats or projections.
Better/worse predictions are quite straightforward. All you need to do is choose riders and predict whether their performance will exceed (better) or fall below (lower) certain benchmarks. For informed predictions, analyze riders’ historical performance (including on specific tracks), track conditions, and relevant race-related factors.
Yes. Once the platform credits your account, you can withdraw your Underdog Fantasy winnings in Missouri. Navigate to the withdrawal page, choose a payment method, and follow subsequent instructions to withdraw your funds. Underdog Fantasy uses PayPal or bank transfers to process withdrawals. Use PayPal for faster withdrawals.
Underdog Fantasy often offers enticing bonuses to attract new users and keep existing ones engaged. Missouri residents and MotoGP fans should check out its deposit bonus and free entries.
While some contests have specific rules and requirements, Underdog Fantasy players mostly need 3-8 picks per entry. Check out the applicable contest rules for an accurate number.
Unlike sports betting, most states regard Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) as skill-based, which explains its unique classification. Players need tact and thoughtful strategies for enhanced success. To increase their chances of success, base their predictions on relevant rider stats, track conditions, and performance trends.
Yes. Kentucky state law does not inhibit DFS gaming. You can enjoy Formula 1 DFS contests if you sign up with Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks.
For a successful Formula 1 DFS game on Underdog Fantasy, study recent driver performance and circuit history, choose value picks, and balance your plays with top performers and high-potential underdogs.For PrizePicks, review the integrated stats and averages with other relevant factors.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Related Posts
Austin slump forces Ducati into urgent setup push
Ducati’s recent slump — centered on worsening front-end and braking performance — has become a clear wake-up call that has forced urgent setup and development work, team and industry figures said. Factory general manager Gigi Dall’Igna described the lackluster weekend in Austin as a wake-up call and warned the team must work hard on setup and development to regain winning form.
Engineers and riders pointed to a loss of front-end grip and weaker braking and corner-entry performance versus the Aprilia RS-GP; those problems have cost Ducati tire life and race pace and have materially affected early 2026 results.
Marc Márquez Weighs Retirement Amid Injuries, Ducati Talks
Marc Márquez’s future in MotoGP is uncertain as he balances recovery from repeated, serious injuries with ongoing contract negotiations. He has said, “I know I’ll be ending my sporting career on two wheels,” described himself as being in his “final dance,” and acknowledged he is “limited more by my body than by my mind.” He also says renewal talks with Ducati “are going well,” but there is no concrete news; reports say his current deal is expiring, he has requested a one-plus-one contract rather than a long-term deal, and he plans to wait until he is fully recovered before deciding.
Márquez’s caution is rooted in a difficult medical history. He underwent four major operations over two years after a 2020 right humerus fracture. In 2025 he suffered a season-ending shoulder problem — including a coracoid fracture, ligament damage and a broken collarbone — after being taken out at Mandalika by Marco Bezzecchi; that incident required surgery in October. He returned to a MotoGP machine at the Sepang test in February and made his racing comeback at the Thailand Grand Prix, where he finished second in the sprint before a tire failure ended a Grand Prix podium bid. He continues extra training and physiotherapy.
Outside observers differ on how long Márquez will continue. Former rider Alex Barros suggested Márquez could consider retirement even if he defends the 2026 title, citing lingering shoulder issues and the potential arrival of Pedro Acosta at Ducati in 2027, while framing that view as speculation. Promoter and pundit Carlo Pernat said he saw “fear” in Márquez’s eyes after recent injuries but predicted he would race “another year or two,” noting the rider remains fast enough to beat most rivals while warning that rising talents such as Acosta could reshape the rivalry ahead. Despite the setbacks, Márquez remains competitive for Ducati, having secured his seventh MotoGP title in 2025 and becoming the oldest rider to claim the championship.
Bezzecchi reclaims championship lead after Austin win, 81-77
Marco Bezzecchi produced a lights-to-flag masterclass at the 2026 MotoGP United States Grand Prix in Austin, but the race’s defining moment came on the opening lap when he and Pedro Acosta made contact exiting Turn 11 while fighting for the lead. Bezzecchi emerged from the clash ahead despite chunks of bodywork and rear aero damage, and race stewards chose not to open an investigation. Both riders downplayed the incident as hard, competitive racing—Acosta calling it “hard racing” and pointing to gusting wind and having run wide as contributory factors—and neither assigned blame.
Bezzecchi led every lap to claim his fifth straight premier-class victory and reclaimed the championship lead, with teammate Jorge Martin recovering to finish second and complete an Aprilia 1-2 at COTA. Pedro Acosta recovered to third for Red Bull KTM and remained the top non-Aprilia rider; after the weekend Bezzecchi sat on 81 points to Martin’s 77 and Acosta on 60. Bezzecchi won by roughly two seconds (Martin finishing about 2.036s back), and the result shifted momentum at the front of the 2026 title fight.
The Italian had started fourth, muscled past early leader Acosta on lap one and then upped his pace from around lap six to open a gap of more than a second as he controlled the race to the flag. He had topped the brief warm-up earlier in the day and had crashed out of the Sprint while running second, underlining how close he had been to the limit over the weekend. Several reports credited Bezzecchi with setting a modern-era mark for consecutive laps led—citing 121 laps and noting he surpassed Jorge Lorenzo’s previous benchmark—though one account attributed that 121-figure to Acosta, so sources vary on which rider holds that specific tally.
Marquez cleared for Mugello but to be reassessed after FP1
MotoGP returns to Mugello for the Brembo GP of Italy this weekend. Ducati Lenovo said Marc Marquez has been medically cleared to race but will be reassessed after FP1 to confirm he can continue, following a right-foot fracture and surgery earlier this month and a recent operation to remove a loose screw from his right shoulder. Luca Marini said he is fit and ready after missing the 2025 Mugello with a testing injury and rejected Ducati’s suggestion he become a test rider, saying, “Right now, being a test rider isn’t what I want.” Jorge Martín said he feels ready to tackle Mugello but not fully recovered after several crashes in Barcelona, adding, “At Mugello, you’ve got to show your attributes!”
The championship picture raises the stakes. Marco Bezzecchi leads the standings by 15 points over teammate Jorge Martín after Barcelona, with Aprilia running four bikes inside the top six overall. Fabio Di Giannantonio arrives off his second MotoGP win in Barcelona. Francesco Bagnaia is a three-time Mugello winner (2022–24) and finished third in Barcelona. Pedro Acosta took pole in Barcelona, narrowly missed the Sprint win and was taken out on Sunday, but remains within striking distance of the title.
Injury absences and lineup changes continue to affect the grid. Alex Marquez fractured his C7 vertebra in the Catalan incident and will be replaced in Italy by test rider Michele Pirro. Johann Zarco suffered knee ligament damage in the same crash and will miss Mugello; Cal Crutchlow will step in for Italy. Zarco will also miss the Suzuka 8 Hours and be replaced there by Somkiat Chantra. Marini plans to start the Mugello weekend on a setup similar to his Barcelona configuration, aiming to reach the top ten in pre-qualifying and shift the weekend’s momentum. He prefers dry conditions while acknowledging Honda’s strengths in the wet, and he has a Safety Commission meeting scheduled with other riders, including Bagnaia and Bezzecchi, to discuss rider representation.