MotoGP plans split qualifying for sprint, Grand Prix
NXTbets Pro | Published On: September 19, 2026
MotoGP qualifying plan
MotoGP is moving toward a major qualifying shakeup for next season, with a proposal to stage two separate sessions at each race weekend. One session would set the sprint grid and another would decide the Grand Prix grid, a change that would split what one qualifying run currently covers for both races. The plan mirrors Formula 1’s sprint-weekend model. The championship has already discussed the idea with teams, manufacturers and the championship organization, and the format is expected to win approval in the coming days if it clears the Grand Prix Commission. The current setup asks riders to navigate one session that shapes both races. A split format would give each race its own qualifying path.
MotoGP sprint grid
The split qualifying plan is tied to how MotoGP wants its weekend to function. Under the proposal, the sprint would likely stay in the late afternoon, unlike Formula 1’s Saturday morning sprint. The change would also give the sprint its own qualifying identity, with one session focused on that race alone and another dedicated to the Grand Prix. Support also exists for a broader adjustment to the current qualifying ladder, with some backing for expanding the format from Q1 and Q2 to three sessions, Q1 through Q3. That would create a longer qualifying structure. Riders already face demanding race weekends, with track sessions, sponsor commitments and media duties adding to the workload.
MotoGP rider concerns
The push for change comes after riders have voiced clear concern about the strain of the current schedule. They have complained that the setup creates too much stress and too much risk, and those concerns sit at the center of the discussion. MotoGP weekends already demand a lot from riders. Sponsor appearances and media work add more layers to the day, and the qualifying format sits on top of all of it. A split qualifying system would separate sprint qualifying from Grand Prix qualifying and make each session more specific. The proposal arrives after earlier rule changes this year fell through, which makes this round of discussion more important. MotoGP has already discussed the idea with teams, manufacturers and the championship organization, and the next step is the Grand Prix Commission. If approval comes through, the sport would move toward a new weekend structure next season.
