MotoGP Daily Fantasy Sports playing has gained traction among motorsports enthusiasts. This gameplay allows you to immerse yourself directly in the excitement. It enables you to pick top riders and compete in contests that are determined based on the riders’ real-life performances. MotoGP DFS is more prominent in Texas, even more so since traditional sports betting is not fully legal in the state. MotoGP DFS is considered legal in Texas because it is a game of skill. As a result, you can safely play MotoGP DFS on various reliable platforms like Underdog Fantasy.
Underdog Fantasy allows you to play contests in different formats, whether you are new or seasoned. This blog will guide you through the key steps to play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks in Texas. We will also discuss important strategies to keep your gaming sustainable and enjoyable. Let’s get right into it!
Draftkings DFS
Get 3 Tickets to Play Free for Your Shot at a Share of Millions in Prizes!
Getting started with MotoGP DFS in Texas is simple if you have an account on Underdog Fantasy. Follow the simple steps below:
Step 1: Visit the Underdog Fantasy Website
To get started with MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy, visit NXTbetsto access the official website for Underdog Fantasy. Using the NXTbets redirect link may help unlock special sign-up bonuses exclusive to new users. The Underdog Fantasy website has a sleek, intuitive, and simple interface. It allows you easy navigation and access to different contests.
On the homepage, you will see options to browse different DFS contests, including MotoGP. There is also an option for quick access to registration. You can also access Underdog Fantasy through the mobile app, which has functionality similar to the desktop version. All you need is a smartphone or a tablet.
Step 2: Create Your Account
Creating an account on Underdog Fantasy is fast and straightforward. Click the “Sign Up” button at the top right of the homepage. You will be prompted to enter your name and a valid email and select a username and password. You will also be required to provide an accurate date of birth. After doing this, ensure you check the box for verification email. Your account only becomes active once it is verified.
Do not forget to utilize available welcome bonuses or promotions for new users. Often, Underdog Fantasy offers a deposit match of up to $1000 in cash for new eligible users. Such bonuses will help you start your gaming with more flexibility and confidence.
Step 3: Verify Your Account
Underdog Fantasy verifies accounts to ensure the safety and security of players. Verification is also key to compliance with regulations and maintaining the integrity of MotoGP DFS. The process is quick and simple. Login to Underdog Fantasy. Click “Account” on the homepage on the top right. Navigate to “Get Verified” on the dashboard at the left. You will be required to provide personal information and location. Once you give these details, you will receive an email notification prompting you to confirm the verification.
Step 4: Make Your First Deposit
Once you register an account, proceed to make your first deposit. Underdog Fantasy allows various payment methods, such as credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, and online methods like PayPal. Ensure you meet the minimum deposit of $10.
Depositing your account is also effortless, and transactions are processed instantly, except for bank transfers, which take a few business days. To make a deposit, navigate to the “+” on the top right of the homepage. Select your preferred payment method and enter the amount you wish to deposit. Wait for a confirmation of your deposit. Once the money is reflected, you can enter any contest you prefer.
How to Play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy
With an active and funded account, you can browse and enter contests on Underdog Fantasy. Here’s a guide to playing MotoGP DFS on the platform:
Step 1: Choose a MotoGP DFS Contest
When you log in to your Underdog Fantasy account, proceed to the top left side with a Pick’em contest button. MotoGP DFS only offers pick’em contests where you choose whether a rider is going to finish higher/lower than the projected results.
Step 2: Make Your MotoGP Rider Picks
As you pick your MotoGP riders, consider the following factors:
Rider Form: Research the riders’ recent performances to identify those with good form.
Track Record: Check the riders’ track records by looking at the track history. Riders perform differently on different tracks.
Weather Conditions: Dry and wet conditions greatly affect riders’ performance. Heavy rains make the tracks wet and slippery and may thus influence a rider’s maneuvers and balance.
Follow the Race and Monitor Your Progress
With your entries ready, wait for race day and follow the action attentively. Underdog Fantasy provides live and real-time updates, allowing you to watch the race and track your picks’ performance throughout.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in PrizePicks in Texas
If you are in Texas, you can also play MotoGP DFS in PrizePicks. Below are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Register an Account and Claim a Bonus
Access PrizePicks using your device, either a computer or a mobile phone. The platform has a convenient mobile app available for Android and iOS users. Click “Sign Up” on the home page and provide your personal details. These include name, email address, and date of birth. Next, use our promo code “NXT” to enjoy an exclusive instant cash bonus of up to $50 for your first $5 lineup.
After creating an account, navigate to the identity verification page and provide your personal details again. Wait for an email confirmation from PrizePicks and ensure you click the link to set up your account fully.
Step 2: Deposit Money into Your Account
Proceed to the “Deposit” page or click the green “+” button at the top right corner of your device to fund your account. Select your preferred payment option. You can use Venmo, Apple Pay, Credit/Debit cards, or online banking via Aeropay.
Enter the amount you wish to deposit, ensuring you meet the minimum requirements. Proceed with the subsequent prompts to complete the transaction.
Step 3: Build Your Lineup
The next step is to build your lineup for the contest. At the lobby, select MotoGP to see the upcoming events and available riders. Choose at least two up to six riders to build your lineup. Every rider has a projection from which you must select “More” or “Less.”
After building the lineup, choose a contest format you wish to participate in. The platform offers Pick’em contests with the option of Power Play or Flex. Power Play allows you to win only if all of your selections are accurate. However, you may still win in Flex even if one or two of your selections are inaccurate.
Step 4: Submit Your Lineup
Once you are satisfied with your lineup, enter your entry fee. The platform has a default entry fee of $20, but you can edit and enter the amount you wish to. After that, click “Submit Lineup” to lock in your entries for the contest.
Best MotoGP DFS Strategy Tips for Texas Players
Success in MotoGP DFS is not about luck. Applying effective strategies can increase your chances of success. Consider the following practical tips:
Research Riders
Research and analysis are among the best strategies in MotoGP DFS. Researching and analyzing rider statistics and track history is crucial. Some riders perform exceptionally well on other tracks than elsewhere. Riders prone to injuries and penalties may not be the best picks. For instance, a rider like Marc Marquez might have an incredible record at Circuit of the Americas but struggle on tighter tracks like Misano. Team dynamics also shape the overall race outcomes and must be considered.
Track Conditions Matter
Track conditions always matter in MotoGP DFS. Riders perform differently on tracks with smooth and rugged terrains. Smooth tracks may favor riders who excel at high speeds. Weather conditions also impact track conditions and influence the outcome of the race. Rainy conditions may make tracks wet and slippery, making balancing and cornering difficult. Dry conditions may also increase heat and make riders uncomfortable.
Bankroll Management
Managing your bankroll is also essential for long-term success in MotoGP DFS. To effectively manage your bankroll, set a clear budget and stick to it. It is easy to get carried away in the excitement and may be tempted to go beyond your budget. Remember to deposit the amount you can afford to lose so that you do not suffer financial strain.
Why Use Underdog Fantasy or PrizePicks for MotoGP DFS in Texas?
These platforms are friendly to new users. Their designs are simple at best. They are also sleek and intuitive, allowing you to resgiter easily, access contests, and track progress through the live feature.
Security is another hook with these plaforms. First, they verify accounts to ensure compliance with regulations. They also uses advanced encryption technology to protect your financial and personal data, guaranteeing safe deposits and withdrawals.
Both of these platforms have a convenient mobile app with features similar to the desktop version. The apps are available for Android and iOS users. Whether you are using the mobile app or the desktop version, you get access to all available bonuses and promotions. For instance, Underdog Fantasy offers new eligible users up to $1000 in cash prizes while PrizePick offers a $50 instant cash bonus for the first $5 lineup.
To get started with, visit NXTbets today. Do not forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more updates and exciting news about MotoGP DFS!
Draftkings DFS
Get 3 Tickets to Play Free for Your Shot at a Share of Millions in Prizes!
Can I play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy from my mobile phone?
Yes, Underdog Fantasy has a mobile app available for both iOS and Android devices. The app has features and functionality similar to those of the desktop version.
Can I edit my MotoGP DFS lineup after the race starts?
No, you can only edit your lineup before the race begins. Once the race starts, the lineup is locked. Therefore, ensure you review your lineup properly before the race begins.
How does Underdog Fantasy handle ties in MotoGP DFS contests?
The prize pool will be divided among the tied participants should there be a tie. This ensures fairness in the distribution of winnings.
What is the minimum age requirement to play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy in Texas?
The Minimum legal age to play fantasy sports in Texas is 18 or older. Most DFS platforms allow only users who are 18 or older to register an account.
Can I Submit My Lineup in PrizePicks After the Event Begins?
No. You must submit your lineup before the start of the event to participate in the contest.
What Is The Minimum Stake on a Single Lineup in PrizePicks?
The minimum entry fee in this platform is $1 whether you use credit or promo funds. However, the maximum entry fee may vary depending on the stat, sport, or member type.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Ducati’s hopes at the Thai MotoGP in Buriram were derailed by mechanical problems and an unexpectedly poor team showing that left the factory without a podium. The result ended a long run of Ducati podiums — reported as an 88-race streak that began in 2021 — though sources differ on the precise race it began (reports cite the 2021 British GP and Aragon 2021). Aprilia dominated the opener, turning what had been a pre-race expectation of Ducati strength into a difficult weekend for the Italian marque.
The most dramatic failure came when Marc Márquez, who had begun the race on the front row and was contesting a podium, ran over the Turn 4 curb on lap 21 and suffered a deformed rear rim that caused an immediate loss of tire pressure and forced his retirement with six laps remaining. Ducati team boss Davide Tardozzi said “the rim exploded,” and technical lead Piero Taramasso said rim damage had been visible all weekend amid extreme heat and an aggressive curb design. Márquez called the failure “very strange” and “unlucky,” said he did not believe Michelin or the track surface were to blame, and insisted there was “no panic” at Ducati. Tardozzi added the failure likely cost Márquez at least a third-place finish and warned it complicates his championship bid.
Other Ducati riders also suffered setbacks. Fabio di Giannantonio, the top Ducati finisher, recovered to sixth after a mysterious technical fault on lap six that he said produced overheating, reduced his pace and forced him to back off; he ruled out a direct tire failure but declined to specify the issue and said he believed he could have challenged for a podium. Franco Morbidelli finished eighth and Francesco Bagnaia ninth after a weekend of struggles; Alex Márquez and Marc Márquez both retired, Michele Pirro finished last as a replacement rider, and team members were left searching for explanations as engineers tried to understand why the bikes felt different from testing. With Ducati stunned and Aprilia celebrating a dominant day, team figures urged calm while investigations into the wheel and bike issues continued.
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.
Álvaro Carpe claimed pole for the Moto3 U.S. Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas with a lap of 2:12.107, putting him at the head of the grid set for Saturday’s race. Casey O’Gorman qualified second (2:12.519) and Valentin Perrone third (2:12.526); Veda Pratama was fourth (2:12.813) and Guido Pini fifth (2:12.837). Joel Esteban (2:12.869), Adrian Fernandez (2:12.917), Max Quiles (2:12.996), Rico Salmela (2:13.005) and Scott Ogden (2:13.244) completed the top ten, with Joel Kelso and Zen Mitani 11th and 12th respectively. Hakim Danish did not set a time during qualifying.
The 14-lap Moto3 race was won by Guido Pini, who claimed his maiden grand prix victory aboard a Pirelli-shod Leopard Racing Honda. A late four-rider breakaway of Max Quiles, Guido Pini, Valentin Perrone and Álvaro Carpe shaped the finish; Quiles led for much of the race before Pini — fourth down the back straight on the final lap — made a decisive pass at Turn 13 to move into the lead. Pini finished 0.056 seconds ahead of Quiles, with Carpe third (0.254 seconds behind Pini).
Álvaro Carpe attempted a late overtake on Perrone at the final corner, ran wide, recovered to third and publicly apologized to Perrone. Adrian Fernandez, who led early, slipped back to fifth. The top ten finishers were: 1) Guido Pini, 2) Max Quiles, 3) Álvaro Carpe, 4) Valentin Perrone, 5) Adrian Fernandez, 6) Adrian Cruces, 7) Rico Salmela, 8) Brian Uriarte, 9) Matteo Bertelle, 10) Scott Ogden. The result preserved Quiles’ position as championship leader; Quiles left COTA with 65 points, Carpe had 42 and Perrone 38, Quiles sitting 23 points clear of Carpe.
Reports varied from one source that named David Alonso as the winner at COTA for the CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team, but the majority of race reports cited above record Guido Pini as the race winner and provide the finishing order and margins described here.
MotoGP has enacted new pit-lane entry rules to close a loophole exposed by Marc Márquez’s rain-affected Jerez sprint in April. Márquez crashed at the final corner of the sprint, cut across grass and the pit-entry white lines to reach the pit lane, switched to a wet-setup Ducati and went on to win the sprint without receiving a penalty. Race Direction and members of the paddock judged the maneuver to fall into a regulatory grey area because existing weekend guidance only prohibited crossing the inner pit line, and Márquez had not exceeded pit-lane speed limits, ignored marshals, or stopped a non-running bike.
The FIM Grand Prix Commission and MotoGP race authorities moved the Pit Lane Procedures from interim guidance into the formal regulations, a change adopted at the Commission meeting in Balaton Park and brought into force from the Hungarian Grand Prix. Race Direction had issued interim clarifying guidance ahead of the French Grand Prix at Le Mans, and the formal wording was aligned with Race Direction protocol.
The revised rule requires all pit-lane entries and exits to use the designated entry and exit point and the route defined by the broken white line and the official pit-lane access road, and it mandates that riders cross the official pit-lane entry timing point when entering or exiting. The regulation explicitly forbids crossing the solid white lines at pit entry and exit. Stewards are empowered to penalize riders who fail to cross the broken line, do not use the pit-lane entry road in its entirety, or miss the timing point. MotoGP said the change is intended to close the Jerez loophole, restore fairness in pit procedures and provide clearer, enforceable guidance to teams, riders and officials moving forward.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in Texas
MotoGP Daily Fantasy Sports playing has gained traction among motorsports enthusiasts. This gameplay allows you to immerse yourself directly in the excitement. It enables you to pick top riders and compete in contests that are determined based on the riders’ real-life performances. MotoGP DFS is more prominent in Texas, even more so since traditional sports betting is not fully legal in the state. MotoGP DFS is considered legal in Texas because it is a game of skill. As a result, you can safely play MotoGP DFS on various reliable platforms like Underdog Fantasy.
Underdog Fantasy allows you to play contests in different formats, whether you are new or seasoned. This blog will guide you through the key steps to play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks in Texas. We will also discuss important strategies to keep your gaming sustainable and enjoyable. Let’s get right into it!
How to Sign Up for Underdog Fantasy in Texas
Getting started with MotoGP DFS in Texas is simple if you have an account on Underdog Fantasy. Follow the simple steps below:
Step 1: Visit the Underdog Fantasy Website
To get started with MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy, visit NXTbets to access the official website for Underdog Fantasy. Using the NXTbets redirect link may help unlock special sign-up bonuses exclusive to new users. The Underdog Fantasy website has a sleek, intuitive, and simple interface. It allows you easy navigation and access to different contests.
On the homepage, you will see options to browse different DFS contests, including MotoGP. There is also an option for quick access to registration. You can also access Underdog Fantasy through the mobile app, which has functionality similar to the desktop version. All you need is a smartphone or a tablet.
Step 2: Create Your Account
Creating an account on Underdog Fantasy is fast and straightforward. Click the “Sign Up” button at the top right of the homepage. You will be prompted to enter your name and a valid email and select a username and password. You will also be required to provide an accurate date of birth. After doing this, ensure you check the box for verification email. Your account only becomes active once it is verified.
Do not forget to utilize available welcome bonuses or promotions for new users. Often, Underdog Fantasy offers a deposit match of up to $1000 in cash for new eligible users. Such bonuses will help you start your gaming with more flexibility and confidence.
Step 3: Verify Your Account
Underdog Fantasy verifies accounts to ensure the safety and security of players. Verification is also key to compliance with regulations and maintaining the integrity of MotoGP DFS. The process is quick and simple. Login to Underdog Fantasy. Click “Account” on the homepage on the top right. Navigate to “Get Verified” on the dashboard at the left. You will be required to provide personal information and location. Once you give these details, you will receive an email notification prompting you to confirm the verification.
Step 4: Make Your First Deposit
Once you register an account, proceed to make your first deposit. Underdog Fantasy allows various payment methods, such as credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, and online methods like PayPal. Ensure you meet the minimum deposit of $10.
Depositing your account is also effortless, and transactions are processed instantly, except for bank transfers, which take a few business days. To make a deposit, navigate to the “+” on the top right of the homepage. Select your preferred payment method and enter the amount you wish to deposit. Wait for a confirmation of your deposit. Once the money is reflected, you can enter any contest you prefer.
How to Play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy
With an active and funded account, you can browse and enter contests on Underdog Fantasy. Here’s a guide to playing MotoGP DFS on the platform:
Step 1: Choose a MotoGP DFS Contest
When you log in to your Underdog Fantasy account, proceed to the top left side with a Pick’em contest button. MotoGP DFS only offers pick’em contests where you choose whether a rider is going to finish higher/lower than the projected results.
Step 2: Make Your MotoGP Rider Picks
As you pick your MotoGP riders, consider the following factors:
Follow the Race and Monitor Your Progress
With your entries ready, wait for race day and follow the action attentively. Underdog Fantasy provides live and real-time updates, allowing you to watch the race and track your picks’ performance throughout.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in PrizePicks in Texas
If you are in Texas, you can also play MotoGP DFS in PrizePicks. Below are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Register an Account and Claim a Bonus
Access PrizePicks using your device, either a computer or a mobile phone. The platform has a convenient mobile app available for Android and iOS users. Click “Sign Up” on the home page and provide your personal details. These include name, email address, and date of birth. Next, use our promo code “NXT” to enjoy an exclusive instant cash bonus of up to $50 for your first $5 lineup.
After creating an account, navigate to the identity verification page and provide your personal details again. Wait for an email confirmation from PrizePicks and ensure you click the link to set up your account fully.
Step 2: Deposit Money into Your Account
Proceed to the “Deposit” page or click the green “+” button at the top right corner of your device to fund your account. Select your preferred payment option. You can use Venmo, Apple Pay, Credit/Debit cards, or online banking via Aeropay.
Enter the amount you wish to deposit, ensuring you meet the minimum requirements. Proceed with the subsequent prompts to complete the transaction.
Step 3: Build Your Lineup
The next step is to build your lineup for the contest. At the lobby, select MotoGP to see the upcoming events and available riders. Choose at least two up to six riders to build your lineup. Every rider has a projection from which you must select “More” or “Less.”
After building the lineup, choose a contest format you wish to participate in. The platform offers Pick’em contests with the option of Power Play or Flex. Power Play allows you to win only if all of your selections are accurate. However, you may still win in Flex even if one or two of your selections are inaccurate.
Step 4: Submit Your Lineup
Once you are satisfied with your lineup, enter your entry fee. The platform has a default entry fee of $20, but you can edit and enter the amount you wish to. After that, click “Submit Lineup” to lock in your entries for the contest.
Best MotoGP DFS Strategy Tips for Texas Players
Success in MotoGP DFS is not about luck. Applying effective strategies can increase your chances of success. Consider the following practical tips:
Research Riders
Research and analysis are among the best strategies in MotoGP DFS. Researching and analyzing rider statistics and track history is crucial. Some riders perform exceptionally well on other tracks than elsewhere. Riders prone to injuries and penalties may not be the best picks. For instance, a rider like Marc Marquez might have an incredible record at Circuit of the Americas but struggle on tighter tracks like Misano. Team dynamics also shape the overall race outcomes and must be considered.
Track Conditions Matter
Track conditions always matter in MotoGP DFS. Riders perform differently on tracks with smooth and rugged terrains. Smooth tracks may favor riders who excel at high speeds. Weather conditions also impact track conditions and influence the outcome of the race. Rainy conditions may make tracks wet and slippery, making balancing and cornering difficult. Dry conditions may also increase heat and make riders uncomfortable.
Bankroll Management
Managing your bankroll is also essential for long-term success in MotoGP DFS. To effectively manage your bankroll, set a clear budget and stick to it. It is easy to get carried away in the excitement and may be tempted to go beyond your budget. Remember to deposit the amount you can afford to lose so that you do not suffer financial strain.
Why Use Underdog Fantasy or PrizePicks for MotoGP DFS in Texas?
These platforms are friendly to new users. Their designs are simple at best. They are also sleek and intuitive, allowing you to resgiter easily, access contests, and track progress through the live feature.
Security is another hook with these plaforms. First, they verify accounts to ensure compliance with regulations. They also uses advanced encryption technology to protect your financial and personal data, guaranteeing safe deposits and withdrawals.
Both of these platforms have a convenient mobile app with features similar to the desktop version. The apps are available for Android and iOS users. Whether you are using the mobile app or the desktop version, you get access to all available bonuses and promotions. For instance, Underdog Fantasy offers new eligible users up to $1000 in cash prizes while PrizePick offers a $50 instant cash bonus for the first $5 lineup.
To get started with, visit NXTbets today. Do not forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more updates and exciting news about MotoGP DFS!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, Underdog Fantasy has a mobile app available for both iOS and Android devices. The app has features and functionality similar to those of the desktop version.
No, you can only edit your lineup before the race begins. Once the race starts, the lineup is locked. Therefore, ensure you review your lineup properly before the race begins.
The prize pool will be divided among the tied participants should there be a tie. This ensures fairness in the distribution of winnings.
The Minimum legal age to play fantasy sports in Texas is 18 or older. Most DFS platforms allow only users who are 18 or older to register an account.
No. You must submit your lineup before the start of the event to participate in the contest.
The minimum entry fee in this platform is $1 whether you use credit or promo funds. However, the maximum entry fee may vary depending on the stat, sport, or member type.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Related Posts
Rim failure likely cost Márquez podium, harms Ducati bid
Ducati’s hopes at the Thai MotoGP in Buriram were derailed by mechanical problems and an unexpectedly poor team showing that left the factory without a podium. The result ended a long run of Ducati podiums — reported as an 88-race streak that began in 2021 — though sources differ on the precise race it began (reports cite the 2021 British GP and Aragon 2021). Aprilia dominated the opener, turning what had been a pre-race expectation of Ducati strength into a difficult weekend for the Italian marque.
The most dramatic failure came when Marc Márquez, who had begun the race on the front row and was contesting a podium, ran over the Turn 4 curb on lap 21 and suffered a deformed rear rim that caused an immediate loss of tire pressure and forced his retirement with six laps remaining. Ducati team boss Davide Tardozzi said “the rim exploded,” and technical lead Piero Taramasso said rim damage had been visible all weekend amid extreme heat and an aggressive curb design. Márquez called the failure “very strange” and “unlucky,” said he did not believe Michelin or the track surface were to blame, and insisted there was “no panic” at Ducati. Tardozzi added the failure likely cost Márquez at least a third-place finish and warned it complicates his championship bid.
Other Ducati riders also suffered setbacks. Fabio di Giannantonio, the top Ducati finisher, recovered to sixth after a mysterious technical fault on lap six that he said produced overheating, reduced his pace and forced him to back off; he ruled out a direct tire failure but declined to specify the issue and said he believed he could have challenged for a podium. Franco Morbidelli finished eighth and Francesco Bagnaia ninth after a weekend of struggles; Alex Márquez and Marc Márquez both retired, Michele Pirro finished last as a replacement rider, and team members were left searching for explanations as engineers tried to understand why the bikes felt different from testing. With Ducati stunned and Aprilia celebrating a dominant day, team figures urged calm while investigations into the wheel and bike issues continued.
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.
Pini overtakes Quiles at Turn 13 to win by 0.056s
Álvaro Carpe claimed pole for the Moto3 U.S. Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas with a lap of 2:12.107, putting him at the head of the grid set for Saturday’s race. Casey O’Gorman qualified second (2:12.519) and Valentin Perrone third (2:12.526); Veda Pratama was fourth (2:12.813) and Guido Pini fifth (2:12.837). Joel Esteban (2:12.869), Adrian Fernandez (2:12.917), Max Quiles (2:12.996), Rico Salmela (2:13.005) and Scott Ogden (2:13.244) completed the top ten, with Joel Kelso and Zen Mitani 11th and 12th respectively. Hakim Danish did not set a time during qualifying.
The 14-lap Moto3 race was won by Guido Pini, who claimed his maiden grand prix victory aboard a Pirelli-shod Leopard Racing Honda. A late four-rider breakaway of Max Quiles, Guido Pini, Valentin Perrone and Álvaro Carpe shaped the finish; Quiles led for much of the race before Pini — fourth down the back straight on the final lap — made a decisive pass at Turn 13 to move into the lead. Pini finished 0.056 seconds ahead of Quiles, with Carpe third (0.254 seconds behind Pini).
Álvaro Carpe attempted a late overtake on Perrone at the final corner, ran wide, recovered to third and publicly apologized to Perrone. Adrian Fernandez, who led early, slipped back to fifth. The top ten finishers were: 1) Guido Pini, 2) Max Quiles, 3) Álvaro Carpe, 4) Valentin Perrone, 5) Adrian Fernandez, 6) Adrian Cruces, 7) Rico Salmela, 8) Brian Uriarte, 9) Matteo Bertelle, 10) Scott Ogden. The result preserved Quiles’ position as championship leader; Quiles left COTA with 65 points, Carpe had 42 and Perrone 38, Quiles sitting 23 points clear of Carpe.
Reports varied from one source that named David Alonso as the winner at COTA for the CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team, but the majority of race reports cited above record Guido Pini as the race winner and provide the finishing order and margins described here.
Rule change closes Jerez loophole after Marquez’s pit switch
MotoGP has enacted new pit-lane entry rules to close a loophole exposed by Marc Márquez’s rain-affected Jerez sprint in April. Márquez crashed at the final corner of the sprint, cut across grass and the pit-entry white lines to reach the pit lane, switched to a wet-setup Ducati and went on to win the sprint without receiving a penalty. Race Direction and members of the paddock judged the maneuver to fall into a regulatory grey area because existing weekend guidance only prohibited crossing the inner pit line, and Márquez had not exceeded pit-lane speed limits, ignored marshals, or stopped a non-running bike.
The FIM Grand Prix Commission and MotoGP race authorities moved the Pit Lane Procedures from interim guidance into the formal regulations, a change adopted at the Commission meeting in Balaton Park and brought into force from the Hungarian Grand Prix. Race Direction had issued interim clarifying guidance ahead of the French Grand Prix at Le Mans, and the formal wording was aligned with Race Direction protocol.
The revised rule requires all pit-lane entries and exits to use the designated entry and exit point and the route defined by the broken white line and the official pit-lane access road, and it mandates that riders cross the official pit-lane entry timing point when entering or exiting. The regulation explicitly forbids crossing the solid white lines at pit entry and exit. Stewards are empowered to penalize riders who fail to cross the broken line, do not use the pit-lane entry road in its entirety, or miss the timing point. MotoGP said the change is intended to close the Jerez loophole, restore fairness in pit procedures and provide clearer, enforceable guidance to teams, riders and officials moving forward.