MotoGP races attract over 400 million viewers worldwide every year. The sport’s high speeds, world-class riders, and strategic overtakes make it one of the most exciting motorsports to follow. But MotoGP is not just about watching the races; you can now participate directly through MotoGP DFS. This lets you predict whether an individual rider will perform better or worse than their projections. It focuses on single-event races, making it different from traditional fantasy sports involving season-long commitment and team drafting. It is also not about luck; your strategies and knowledge of the sport shape your predictions.
In this article, we will discuss how you can start playing MotoGP DFS in Oklahoma. We will guide you through registering an account on Underdog Fantasy or PrizePicks, funding it, and participating in contests. We will also look at the legality of DFS in Oklahoma and special offers for Oklahoma players. Are you ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Is MotoGP DFS Legal in Oklahoma?
When it comes to playing MotoGP DFS, most people ask if it is even legal. This question is common because DFS is often mistaken for traditional sports betting, which is restricted in most states. But the good news is that DFS is fully legal in Oklahoma. To better understand the legal framework, check out MotoGP betting laws.
Oklahoma’s Real Money Gaming Laws
Oklahoma recognizes that DFS is a game of skills, thus distinguishing it from traditional sports gambling. Unlike sports gambling, DFS involves analyzing individual riders’ performances, statistics, and other race conditions to make informed predictions. This makes DFS fully legal and accessible to Oklahoma players. Oklahoma has robust real money gaming laws that ensure DFS platforms operate legally to provide a secure and safe environment for Oklahoma residents.
Do Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks Comply?
If you are in Oklahoma, you can confidently play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy or PrizePicks. These platforms are fully compliant and protect all their users to ensure fair play. They typically verify your age and location to ensure legal compliance. They also use advanced security systems to ensure transparent transactions and personal data protection. So, whether you are just starting or are a seasoned DFS player, Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks guarantees you regulated and secure gameplay for a fruitful experience.
Before making your picks, understand the tracks! Check out this guide to see how MotoGP race tracks influence betting strategies.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in Oklahoma on Underdog Fantasy
Getting started with MotoGP DFS in Oklahoma is simple and exciting. Follow the guide below to make your debut.
Step 1: Claim Bonus & Register for an Account on Underdog Fantasy
First, you need an account with Underdog Fantasy. Head to the platform’s website or download the mobile app for convenience. This app is available for Android and iOS users. It allows you to access contests and make transactions anywhere, anytime.
Another crucial step at this stage is identity verification. Underdog Fantasy will verify that you are at least 18 and reside in Oklahoma. This is part of the legal requirement and confirms your eligibility to play MotoGP DFS in Oklahoma.
Step 2: Fund Your Account
After creating an account, log in. Click “Account,” then click the drop-down menu to find “Deposit.” Choose your preferred payment method. The platform allows debit and credit cards and online payment services like PayPal. Deposit the amount you would like, ensuring you meet the minimum deposit, typically $10.
Check for promotions like welcome bonuses or free entries available for new and eligible users. Underdog Fantasy offers up to $1000 cash bonuses for new and eligible players. These offers are crucial and can give you stronger confidence. You will be able to participate in contests without risking your money. As a result, you can gain more experience and confidence for more contests.
Step 3: Browse MotoGP Contests
Once you fund your account, browse the platform to find MotGP. Underdog Fantasy offers pick’em contests based on different sports. The contests are classified into higher/lower and rivals. In higher/lower, you predict whether a rider will perform better or worse than a benchmark. On the other hand, in rivals, you pit two riders against each other, and predict who will outperform the other.
Once you locate MotoGP, click on it to see the available contests. Contests vary in formats, entry fees, and payout structures. Take your time to review these details, focusing on higher/lower pick’em contests. Ensure you pick one that suits your skill level and interests.
Step 4: Make Your "Better/Worse" Picks
This is the climax, where you bring your strategy and knowledge of the sport into play. In MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy, you pick whether an individual rider will perform better or worse than the preset stats. For example, you may pick that Francesco Bagnaia will perform better than a 2.5 projection. This means your pick will be correct if he finishes first or second.
Underdog Fantasy allows you to make at least two picks with a Standard option. But if you choose the Flex option, you can make at least three picks and still win, even if one is incorrect. You can make a maximum of eight picks for an entry in both options. The more correct picks you make, the higher the chances of winning larger payouts.
Study riders’ recent performances, race conditions, and track history to make more informed decisions.
Step 5: Submit Your Picks and Monitor Results
Analyze your picks to ensure they conform to your budget, skill level, and preference. After that, submit your entries before the deadline. Ideally, you should submit your entries before the race begins. Underdog Fantasy allows in-play picks sometimes, but these require advanced strategies and quick decision-making.
As the race continues, follow how your picks fare through Underdog Fantasy’s live feature. Also, look out for news updates on the news update feature on the platform. At the end of the race, you should know whether your picks were correct.
Step 6: Withdraw Winnings
Underdog Fantasy will credit the winnings into your account if your predictions are successful. You can withdraw them or retain them for future contests. Should you decide to withdraw them, go to “Account” and then scroll down to Withdrawals. Select your preferred payment methods and follow the next prompts to finalize the transaction. Processing is often instant or takes a few business days.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in Oklahoma on PrizePicks
In addition to Underdog Fantasy, you can also play MotoGP DFS on PrizePicks. Just follow the simple steps below:
Step 1: Register For PrizePicks
The first step is to create an account on PrizePicks. Visit their official website on your computer or smartphone. This platform also has a mobile phone for Android and iOS devices with an intuitive interface and convenience of play.
On the home page, click the “Sign Up” button, fill in your name, date of birth, and email address, and create a secure password. For a promo code, use our code “NXT” to enjoy exclusive bonuses and other promotions.
You must verify your identity for legal compliance before going to the next step. The verification process requires your name, date of birth, and address to confirm your age and location. To complete this process, ensure you click the verification link sent via email.
Step 2: Fund Your Account
After setting up your account, you must fund it to enter contests. Simply click the “+” at the top right corner of your device or navigate to the “Deposit” page. Next, select a payment method and enter the amount you wish to deposit. PrizePicks allows Apple Pay, PayPal, Venmo, Debit/Credit cards, and online banking via Aeropay. Ensure you meet the minimum $10 deposit requirement and follow the next prompts to complete the transaction.
Step 3: Make Your Picks
With a funded account, you can enter a contest and make your picks. Browse the lobby to find MotoGP and view the upcoming events. You will also see the available riders and their projections. Choose a minimum of two and a maximum of eight riders for a single entry. If you are a beginner, start with three or five picks and gradually increase as you familiarize yourself with the platform. For every rider, select “More” or “Less” if you think the rider will perform better or worse than their projections.
After making your picks, select a contest format between Flex and Powerplay. Flex allows you to win even if one or two of your selections are wrong. However, all your selections must be accurate for you to win.
Step 4: Submit Your Lineup
Next, provide an entry fee, ensuring you meet the minimum of $1 for a single entry. Double-check your selections to ensure accuracy and alignment with your strategy. If you are satisfied, click “Submit Lineup” to lock in your entries.
Monitor the event to see how your selections perform. If you win, PrizePicks will credit your account, and you can withdraw your winnings or use them for other contests.
Offers for Oklahoma DFS Players
Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks often offer incredible promotions for Oklahoma players to enhance their experience in MotoGP DFS. The common offers include welcome bonuses, free entries, and referral bonuses. For instance, as a new user, you can qualify for a match on your first deposit of up to $1000 in cash welcome bonus on Underdog Fantasy while PrizePicks offers a $50 instant cash bonus for your first $5 lineup. These offers allow you to try MotoGP contests at different events. They also increase your chances of success by enhancing your bankroll.
These promotions are often exclusive to Oklahoma players and are time-limited. As a result, keep checking these platforms’ promotions page and utilize the offers before they expire.
Terms and Conditions of Oklahoma Offers
It is crucial to understand the terms and conditions of these promotions to make the most of them. For instance, welcome bonuses have a minimum deposit requirement that you must meet. They are also available to new and eligible users only. Referral bonuses require you to refer a friend to sign up and fund their account on Underdog Fantasy or PrizePicks so that both of you can earn rewards. Other promotions restrict the number of times you have to play before withdrawing any associated winnings. Free entries are also specific to certain MotoGP events.
Reading and understanding the fine print can help you maximize these offers and enjoy a more rewarding MotoGP DFS experience in Oklahoma.
Draftkings DFS
Get 3 Tickets to Play Free for Your Shot at a Share of Millions in Prizes!
Stay updated with NXTbets by subscribing to our newsletter to enhance your gameplay. We bring you real-time updates, expert analyses, key insights, and responsible gaming resources to help you make informed picks. Do not just rely on luck; build a strong strategy to optimize your selections and increase your chances of success. If you are ready to get started, sign up today and claim a bonus!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is MotoGP Real Money Gaming (DFS) Legal In Oklahoma?
Yes, MotoGP DFS falls under the category of skill-based games and is legal and regulated in Oklahoma.
How Do I Sign Up For Underdog Fantasy In Oklahoma?
Visit the Underdog Fantasy website or app
Create an account
Verify your age (18+) and location
What Types Of MotoGP Contests Are Available On Underdog Fantasy?
Underdog Fantasy offers Pick’em contests where you predict whether a specific rider will perform better or worse than their projected stats.
Can I Withdraw My Winnings Easily In Oklahoma?
Yes, withdrawals are straightforward. Go to Withdrawals under “Account” and use the supported payment methods like credit/debit cards or e-wallets like PayPal to transfer winnings securely.
What Strategies Can Help Me Win In MotoGP Real Money Gaming?
Research rider statistics and recent performances.
Research rack conditions
Manage your bankroll effective
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
The roar of engines and the thrill of competition reached a crescendo at the Malaysian Grand Prix, where Ducati’s Enea Bastianini seized a triumphant victory, marking his first win of the season. This victory was not just a testament to Bastianini’s resilience and skill, having overcome physical setbacks earlier in the season, but also a …
Pecco Bagnaia failed to reach Q2 after posting the 15th-fastest time in Friday practice at Buriram and was the only GP26 rider to miss the top group. He blamed a rushed approach and the wrong setup, saying “I just worked bad” and “I’m in Q1 because of my own fault, I was in too much of a hurry and messed up,” and cited a degraded new setup, a hurried tire change when rain threatened, and a tailwind on the back straight as compounding factors.
He nevertheless praised aspects of the GP26, noting later braking and greater stability in the morning, and confirmed he stayed with the 2024 fairing rather than the 2025 aerodynamic package for the event. Bagnaia vowed to push on Saturday to return to Q2 and “give it 100%,” as the team planned overnight changes and further setup work ahead of qualifying.
Fabio Di Giannantonio, by contrast, finished third in the opening practice and reported he had “everything in place,” praising the GP26’s race pace and a more honest front end while confirming he was running the factory aerodynamics package. He said his best lap was almost half a second off Marco Bezzecchi’s benchmark but that the team had margin to improve; both riders acknowledged Bezzecchi and Aprilia looked quick in Thailand, and the combined takeaway was that Ducati must refine setup and aerodynamic strategy for mixed and changing conditions to recover in qualifying and realize the bike’s potential on race day.
Day 1 at the Sepang shakedown produced a busy opening to the 2026 MotoGP pre-season. Honda’s Aleix Espargaro topped the day with a provisional 1:58.091, roughly half a second clear of the field. Pramac Yamaha’s Toprak Razgatlioglu made a high‑profile MotoGP debut as the fastest rookie and fourth overall with 1:59.647. LCR rookie Diogo Moreira overcame an early mechanical issue to finish inside the top ten in 2:00.894 (some sources vary on his exact placing). Next, KTM’s Pol Espargaro and KTM test rider Dani Pedrosa ran prominently near the front. Yamaha test riders showed strong top speed, as Augusto Fernández recorded 327.3 km/h, while Ducati test rider Michele Pirro was the last into the 1:59s. Teams evaluated new aero and components in the pitlane; visual updates included Ducati’s new Lenovo livery and several Yamaha M1s fitted with rear aero.
On Day 2, the pace tightened. Aleix Espargaro improved in the morning running to a provisional 1:58.066 on the RC213V, about 0.512 seconds clear of Pol Espargaro. Toprak was third, 1.079 seconds off the morning benchmark and roughly half a second quicker than his Day‑1 time. Jack Miller completed his first laps of the year, while Moreira remained about 2.8 seconds adrift of the leader. Ducati and Aprilia continued to log laps through their test riders. Pirro was 4.934s off the leader, and Lorenzo Savadori 9.972s adrift, as the session, scheduled from 10 am to 6 pm, ran with limited live timing, so times remained provisional.
Across both days, the shakedown functioned more as a technical preview than a definitive performance order. Manufacturers tested aero variations, new engine hardware, and multiple chassis configurations; Yamaha’s V4 program and rear‑aero packages drew particular attention. Several teams ran expanded bike counts. The return of KTM test rider Mika Kallio and planned LCR livery unveilings added visual cues, as teams used long runs and component evaluations to prepare for the official early‑February Sepang test. The shakedown established early benchmarks and highlighted items to monitor as teams moved into the main preseason program.
Marc Marquez swept the Japanese Grand Prix weekend at Motegi, winning both the sprint and Sunday’s race to take the full 37 points and cut Jorge Martin’s championship lead to two points with six rounds left. The Ducati rider also delivered the brand’s 100th premier-class MotoGP victory under Gigi Dall’Igna, a milestone the team marked with a sticker on Marquez’s bike in parc fermé. Marquez said he felt “sweet” on the bike, especially on the hard Michelin tire, and described the title fight as a three-way battle that also includes Aprilia riders Martin and Marco Bezzecchi.
Martin finished second on Sunday after starting from pole, with Bezzecchi third to give Aprilia a double podium at a track where the team had struggled. Marquez said he was trying to conserve energy and avoid emotional swings during the weekend after changes to his training and race-weekend routine following multiple arm operations and recent shoulder surgery. He also drew a reprimand after skipping the pre-race kart event and sending a body double in his place, saying he needed to stay focused on the championship fight.
Enea Bastianini emerged as one of the weekend’s surprise performers for Tech3 KTM, qualifying seventh, taking a sprint penalty for track limits and then finishing fourth in the Grand Prix, less than a tenth behind Bezzecchi. Bastianini said he had “rediscovered a feeling,” credited better tire feel and a strong adaptation from Friday through race day, and said it was too early to say he was back to his old level.
Honda and Yamaha had mixed weekends at home. Honda’s Luca Marini led the brand in 10th, while wildcard Takaaki Nakagami crashed in damp conditions and broke his collarbone. Toprak Razgatlioglu and Francesco Bagnaia also had difficult races, both struggling with braking and rear-grip problems.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in Oklahoma
MotoGP races attract over 400 million viewers worldwide every year. The sport’s high speeds, world-class riders, and strategic overtakes make it one of the most exciting motorsports to follow. But MotoGP is not just about watching the races; you can now participate directly through MotoGP DFS. This lets you predict whether an individual rider will perform better or worse than their projections. It focuses on single-event races, making it different from traditional fantasy sports involving season-long commitment and team drafting. It is also not about luck; your strategies and knowledge of the sport shape your predictions.
In this article, we will discuss how you can start playing MotoGP DFS in Oklahoma. We will guide you through registering an account on Underdog Fantasy or PrizePicks, funding it, and participating in contests. We will also look at the legality of DFS in Oklahoma and special offers for Oklahoma players. Are you ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Is MotoGP DFS Legal in Oklahoma?
When it comes to playing MotoGP DFS, most people ask if it is even legal. This question is common because DFS is often mistaken for traditional sports betting, which is restricted in most states. But the good news is that DFS is fully legal in Oklahoma. To better understand the legal framework, check out MotoGP betting laws.
Oklahoma’s Real Money Gaming Laws
Oklahoma recognizes that DFS is a game of skills, thus distinguishing it from traditional sports gambling. Unlike sports gambling, DFS involves analyzing individual riders’ performances, statistics, and other race conditions to make informed predictions. This makes DFS fully legal and accessible to Oklahoma players. Oklahoma has robust real money gaming laws that ensure DFS platforms operate legally to provide a secure and safe environment for Oklahoma residents.
Do Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks Comply?
If you are in Oklahoma, you can confidently play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy or PrizePicks. These platforms are fully compliant and protect all their users to ensure fair play. They typically verify your age and location to ensure legal compliance. They also use advanced security systems to ensure transparent transactions and personal data protection. So, whether you are just starting or are a seasoned DFS player, Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks guarantees you regulated and secure gameplay for a fruitful experience.
Before making your picks, understand the tracks! Check out this guide to see how MotoGP race tracks influence betting strategies.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in Oklahoma on Underdog Fantasy
Getting started with MotoGP DFS in Oklahoma is simple and exciting. Follow the guide below to make your debut.
Step 1: Claim Bonus & Register for an Account on Underdog Fantasy
First, you need an account with Underdog Fantasy. Head to the platform’s website or download the mobile app for convenience. This app is available for Android and iOS users. It allows you to access contests and make transactions anywhere, anytime.
Next, click “Sign Up” at the top right of the home page. Provide your username, secure password, date of birth, valid email address, and promo code ‘NXTBETS’ to claim a 50% deposit match up to $1,000!
Another crucial step at this stage is identity verification. Underdog Fantasy will verify that you are at least 18 and reside in Oklahoma. This is part of the legal requirement and confirms your eligibility to play MotoGP DFS in Oklahoma.
Step 2: Fund Your Account
After creating an account, log in. Click “Account,” then click the drop-down menu to find “Deposit.” Choose your preferred payment method. The platform allows debit and credit cards and online payment services like PayPal. Deposit the amount you would like, ensuring you meet the minimum deposit, typically $10.
Check for promotions like welcome bonuses or free entries available for new and eligible users. Underdog Fantasy offers up to $1000 cash bonuses for new and eligible players. These offers are crucial and can give you stronger confidence. You will be able to participate in contests without risking your money. As a result, you can gain more experience and confidence for more contests.
Step 3: Browse MotoGP Contests
Once you fund your account, browse the platform to find MotGP. Underdog Fantasy offers pick’em contests based on different sports. The contests are classified into higher/lower and rivals. In higher/lower, you predict whether a rider will perform better or worse than a benchmark. On the other hand, in rivals, you pit two riders against each other, and predict who will outperform the other.
Once you locate MotoGP, click on it to see the available contests. Contests vary in formats, entry fees, and payout structures. Take your time to review these details, focusing on higher/lower pick’em contests. Ensure you pick one that suits your skill level and interests.
Step 4: Make Your "Better/Worse" Picks
This is the climax, where you bring your strategy and knowledge of the sport into play. In MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy, you pick whether an individual rider will perform better or worse than the preset stats. For example, you may pick that Francesco Bagnaia will perform better than a 2.5 projection. This means your pick will be correct if he finishes first or second.
Underdog Fantasy allows you to make at least two picks with a Standard option. But if you choose the Flex option, you can make at least three picks and still win, even if one is incorrect. You can make a maximum of eight picks for an entry in both options. The more correct picks you make, the higher the chances of winning larger payouts.
Study riders’ recent performances, race conditions, and track history to make more informed decisions.
Step 5: Submit Your Picks and Monitor Results
Analyze your picks to ensure they conform to your budget, skill level, and preference. After that, submit your entries before the deadline. Ideally, you should submit your entries before the race begins. Underdog Fantasy allows in-play picks sometimes, but these require advanced strategies and quick decision-making.
As the race continues, follow how your picks fare through Underdog Fantasy’s live feature. Also, look out for news updates on the news update feature on the platform. At the end of the race, you should know whether your picks were correct.
Step 6: Withdraw Winnings
Underdog Fantasy will credit the winnings into your account if your predictions are successful. You can withdraw them or retain them for future contests. Should you decide to withdraw them, go to “Account” and then scroll down to Withdrawals. Select your preferred payment methods and follow the next prompts to finalize the transaction. Processing is often instant or takes a few business days.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in Oklahoma on PrizePicks
In addition to Underdog Fantasy, you can also play MotoGP DFS on PrizePicks. Just follow the simple steps below:
Step 1: Register For PrizePicks
The first step is to create an account on PrizePicks. Visit their official website on your computer or smartphone. This platform also has a mobile phone for Android and iOS devices with an intuitive interface and convenience of play.
On the home page, click the “Sign Up” button, fill in your name, date of birth, and email address, and create a secure password. For a promo code, use our code “NXT” to enjoy exclusive bonuses and other promotions.
You must verify your identity for legal compliance before going to the next step. The verification process requires your name, date of birth, and address to confirm your age and location. To complete this process, ensure you click the verification link sent via email.
Step 2: Fund Your Account
After setting up your account, you must fund it to enter contests. Simply click the “+” at the top right corner of your device or navigate to the “Deposit” page. Next, select a payment method and enter the amount you wish to deposit. PrizePicks allows Apple Pay, PayPal, Venmo, Debit/Credit cards, and online banking via Aeropay. Ensure you meet the minimum $10 deposit requirement and follow the next prompts to complete the transaction.
Step 3: Make Your Picks
With a funded account, you can enter a contest and make your picks. Browse the lobby to find MotoGP and view the upcoming events. You will also see the available riders and their projections. Choose a minimum of two and a maximum of eight riders for a single entry. If you are a beginner, start with three or five picks and gradually increase as you familiarize yourself with the platform. For every rider, select “More” or “Less” if you think the rider will perform better or worse than their projections.
After making your picks, select a contest format between Flex and Powerplay. Flex allows you to win even if one or two of your selections are wrong. However, all your selections must be accurate for you to win.
Step 4: Submit Your Lineup
Next, provide an entry fee, ensuring you meet the minimum of $1 for a single entry. Double-check your selections to ensure accuracy and alignment with your strategy. If you are satisfied, click “Submit Lineup” to lock in your entries.
Monitor the event to see how your selections perform. If you win, PrizePicks will credit your account, and you can withdraw your winnings or use them for other contests.
Offers for Oklahoma DFS Players
Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks often offer incredible promotions for Oklahoma players to enhance their experience in MotoGP DFS. The common offers include welcome bonuses, free entries, and referral bonuses. For instance, as a new user, you can qualify for a match on your first deposit of up to $1000 in cash welcome bonus on Underdog Fantasy while PrizePicks offers a $50 instant cash bonus for your first $5 lineup. These offers allow you to try MotoGP contests at different events. They also increase your chances of success by enhancing your bankroll.
These promotions are often exclusive to Oklahoma players and are time-limited. As a result, keep checking these platforms’ promotions page and utilize the offers before they expire.
Terms and Conditions of Oklahoma Offers
It is crucial to understand the terms and conditions of these promotions to make the most of them. For instance, welcome bonuses have a minimum deposit requirement that you must meet. They are also available to new and eligible users only. Referral bonuses require you to refer a friend to sign up and fund their account on Underdog Fantasy or PrizePicks so that both of you can earn rewards. Other promotions restrict the number of times you have to play before withdrawing any associated winnings. Free entries are also specific to certain MotoGP events.
Reading and understanding the fine print can help you maximize these offers and enjoy a more rewarding MotoGP DFS experience in Oklahoma.
Playing MotoGP DFS With NXTbets
Stay updated with NXTbets by subscribing to our newsletter to enhance your gameplay. We bring you real-time updates, expert analyses, key insights, and responsible gaming resources to help you make informed picks. Do not just rely on luck; build a strong strategy to optimize your selections and increase your chances of success. If you are ready to get started, sign up today and claim a bonus!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, MotoGP DFS falls under the category of skill-based games and is legal and regulated in Oklahoma.
Underdog Fantasy offers Pick’em contests where you predict whether a specific rider will perform better or worse than their projected stats.
Yes, withdrawals are straightforward. Go to Withdrawals under “Account” and use the supported payment methods like credit/debit cards or e-wallets like PayPal to transfer winnings securely.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
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The roar of engines and the thrill of competition reached a crescendo at the Malaysian Grand Prix, where Ducati’s Enea Bastianini seized a triumphant victory, marking his first win of the season. This victory was not just a testament to Bastianini’s resilience and skill, having overcome physical setbacks earlier in the season, but also a …
Bagnaia faults rushed setup after missing Q2 in Buriram
Pecco Bagnaia failed to reach Q2 after posting the 15th-fastest time in Friday practice at Buriram and was the only GP26 rider to miss the top group. He blamed a rushed approach and the wrong setup, saying “I just worked bad” and “I’m in Q1 because of my own fault, I was in too much of a hurry and messed up,” and cited a degraded new setup, a hurried tire change when rain threatened, and a tailwind on the back straight as compounding factors.
He nevertheless praised aspects of the GP26, noting later braking and greater stability in the morning, and confirmed he stayed with the 2024 fairing rather than the 2025 aerodynamic package for the event. Bagnaia vowed to push on Saturday to return to Q2 and “give it 100%,” as the team planned overnight changes and further setup work ahead of qualifying.
Fabio Di Giannantonio, by contrast, finished third in the opening practice and reported he had “everything in place,” praising the GP26’s race pace and a more honest front end while confirming he was running the factory aerodynamics package. He said his best lap was almost half a second off Marco Bezzecchi’s benchmark but that the team had margin to improve; both riders acknowledged Bezzecchi and Aprilia looked quick in Thailand, and the combined takeaway was that Ducati must refine setup and aerodynamic strategy for mixed and changing conditions to recover in qualifying and realize the bike’s potential on race day.
Aleix Espargaro Tops Sepang Shakedown with 1:58.066
Day 1 at the Sepang shakedown produced a busy opening to the 2026 MotoGP pre-season. Honda’s Aleix Espargaro topped the day with a provisional 1:58.091, roughly half a second clear of the field. Pramac Yamaha’s Toprak Razgatlioglu made a high‑profile MotoGP debut as the fastest rookie and fourth overall with 1:59.647. LCR rookie Diogo Moreira overcame an early mechanical issue to finish inside the top ten in 2:00.894 (some sources vary on his exact placing). Next, KTM’s Pol Espargaro and KTM test rider Dani Pedrosa ran prominently near the front. Yamaha test riders showed strong top speed, as Augusto Fernández recorded 327.3 km/h, while Ducati test rider Michele Pirro was the last into the 1:59s. Teams evaluated new aero and components in the pitlane; visual updates included Ducati’s new Lenovo livery and several Yamaha M1s fitted with rear aero.
On Day 2, the pace tightened. Aleix Espargaro improved in the morning running to a provisional 1:58.066 on the RC213V, about 0.512 seconds clear of Pol Espargaro. Toprak was third, 1.079 seconds off the morning benchmark and roughly half a second quicker than his Day‑1 time. Jack Miller completed his first laps of the year, while Moreira remained about 2.8 seconds adrift of the leader. Ducati and Aprilia continued to log laps through their test riders. Pirro was 4.934s off the leader, and Lorenzo Savadori 9.972s adrift, as the session, scheduled from 10 am to 6 pm, ran with limited live timing, so times remained provisional.
Across both days, the shakedown functioned more as a technical preview than a definitive performance order. Manufacturers tested aero variations, new engine hardware, and multiple chassis configurations; Yamaha’s V4 program and rear‑aero packages drew particular attention. Several teams ran expanded bike counts. The return of KTM test rider Mika Kallio and planned LCR livery unveilings added visual cues, as teams used long runs and component evaluations to prepare for the official early‑February Sepang test. The shakedown established early benchmarks and highlighted items to monitor as teams moved into the main preseason program.
Marquez wins Japan GP double, delivers Ducati’s 100th
Marc Marquez swept the Japanese Grand Prix weekend at Motegi, winning both the sprint and Sunday’s race to take the full 37 points and cut Jorge Martin’s championship lead to two points with six rounds left. The Ducati rider also delivered the brand’s 100th premier-class MotoGP victory under Gigi Dall’Igna, a milestone the team marked with a sticker on Marquez’s bike in parc fermé. Marquez said he felt “sweet” on the bike, especially on the hard Michelin tire, and described the title fight as a three-way battle that also includes Aprilia riders Martin and Marco Bezzecchi.
Martin finished second on Sunday after starting from pole, with Bezzecchi third to give Aprilia a double podium at a track where the team had struggled. Marquez said he was trying to conserve energy and avoid emotional swings during the weekend after changes to his training and race-weekend routine following multiple arm operations and recent shoulder surgery. He also drew a reprimand after skipping the pre-race kart event and sending a body double in his place, saying he needed to stay focused on the championship fight.
Enea Bastianini emerged as one of the weekend’s surprise performers for Tech3 KTM, qualifying seventh, taking a sprint penalty for track limits and then finishing fourth in the Grand Prix, less than a tenth behind Bezzecchi. Bastianini said he had “rediscovered a feeling,” credited better tire feel and a strong adaptation from Friday through race day, and said it was too early to say he was back to his old level.
Honda and Yamaha had mixed weekends at home. Honda’s Luca Marini led the brand in 10th, while wildcard Takaaki Nakagami crashed in damp conditions and broke his collarbone. Toprak Razgatlioglu and Francesco Bagnaia also had difficult races, both struggling with braking and rear-grip problems.