MotoGP DFS has been gaining attention among motorsport enthusiasts in Minnesota. This is because it allows you to interact directly with MotoGP. It lets you make fresh picks for every event and adjust your strategy. In MotoGP DFS, you select riders and then predict whether their finishing position will be higher or lower than what is projected.
MotoGP DFS is legal and available on platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks in Minnesota. These platform complies with all state gaming regulations to ensure fair play. In this guide, we will discuss the key steps to playing MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks. We will also walk you through creating an account, funding it, selecting riders, and choosing contests. We will highlight crucial strategies to increase your chances of winning in MotoGP DFS.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing MotoGP DFS in Minnesota in Underdog Fantasy
Getting started on MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy is straightforward. Follow the steps below:
Step 1 – Sign Up for Underdog Fantasy
You can create an account on Underdog Fantasy through the official website or download the mobile app. To sign up through the website:
VisitNXTbets to access the Underdog Fantasy website on your browser.
Click “Sign UP” in the upper-right corner of the homepage
Enter your details like username, valid email, secure and strong password.
Enter a promo code if available. Always check NXTbets for active promo codes to claim the Welcome bonus on your first deposit.
Underdog Fantasy will also require you to verify your identity in compliance with Minnesota regulations. The verification process is also simple. You will provide your full name, date of birth, address, and any identity document from Minnesota.
Once you set up your account, you will receive an email confirmation. Follow the instructions to activate your account fully.
Step 2 – Funding Your Account
With a fully verified account, you must fund your account to access the available contests. Below are the steps to deposit money in your account:
On the homepage, click “+” in the upper-right corner.
Select your preferred payment option. In Minnesota, you can use some e-wallets, debit cards, credit cards, PayPal, or bank transfers.
Enter the amount you wish to deposit. Look out for any deposit match bonuses to maximize your funds. Underdog Fantasy offers a 50% match on your first deposit.
Confirm your payment details and submit. The funds should reflect in your account instantly, except for bank transfers that take a few business days.
You can also access the “Deposit” option by clicking “Account” once logged in, then follow the rest of the steps to complete the transaction.
Step 3 – Finding MotoGP DFS Contests on Underdog Fantasy
Finding MotoGP DFS contests on Underdog Fantasy is simple. On the homepage, you can locate contests under Pick’em. For MotoGP DFS, you can play the higher/lower contest featured in the pick’em section. In higher/lower contests, you predict whether a rider will perform higher or lower than their projected finishing position.
Step 4 – Making Your MotoGP DFS Picks
Success in MotoGP DFS depends on the strength and ability of your picks. To build a more competitive lineup, evaluate every rider’s stats. Consider their recent performance data, such as lap times and finishing positions. This will give you invaluable insights into a rider’s track record. You should also consider the different track conditions and how riders perform under them. Every track has unique features, and riders perform differently on specific tracks. If a rider has a record of consistent positive performance on a similar track, they may be a strong choice for your lineup.
Underdog Fantasy allows you to make pre-game and in-game picks, so ensure you choose riders who fit your strategy.
Step 5 – Monitoring Your Picks and Winning Real Money
Once you submit your lineup, watch the race progress, paying attention to your riders’ performances. Also, check the real-time updates through Underdog Fantasy’s live feature. The rankings are updated regularly depending on the real-time events. If your lineup wins, you can claim your winnings, which will be ready for withdrawal from your account.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in PrizePicks
Playing MotoGP DFS in PrizePicks is similar to Underdog Fantasy except for a few different features. Here’s how to go about it:
Step 1: Register an Account
Like underdog Fantasy, you need an account to participate in MotoGP DFS contests in PrizePicks. To do this, visit PrizePick’s official website on your device. You can use your desktop or the mobile app available for both iOS and Android. Click the “Sign Up” button at the right corner of the home page. You will be redirected to a page where you can fill in your details like name, email address, and date of birth and provide a secure password.
For the promo code option, use our code “NXT” to enjoy up to a $50 instant cash bonus when you enter your first $5 contest. These bonuses are crucial since they give you extra cash to play with without risking a significant part of your bankroll.
You must verify your identity to set up your account fully. Therefore, ensure you turn on your location since the platform uses geolocation to verify your identity. Next, provide your details, like name and address, and then click the confirmation link via email.
Step 2: Deposit Money into Your Account
Next, you must fund your account to enter contests. PrizePicks allows the following deposit methods:
Apple Pay
Venmo
PayPal
Credit/Debit cards
Online Banking via AeroPay
To fund your account, locate the “+” button at the top right corner of the desktop or mobile app. Alternatively, you can navigate to the deposit page. Select your preferred payment method and follow the subsequent prompts to complete the transaction.
Step 3: Enter the MotoGP DFS Contest
To enter a contest, navigate to MotoGP in the lobby. Next, select at least two and a maximum of six players with up to 25x payouts. For each player, choose “More” or “Less” based on their projections, then select the type of contest format to participate in.
This platform has Pick’em and Pick’em arena contests. In Pick’em, you can either play Power Play or Flex. In Power Play, all your selections must be correct for you to win, while Flex allows a margin of error, so you may still win even if some of your selections are wrong.
On the other hand, in Pick’em Arena, you compete against other players and potentially win real money if you have the best lineup.
Once you select Power Play or Flex, enter your entry fee. You will notice that the default entry fee is $20; however, you can edit this to fit your interests and preferences. The minimum entry fee is typically $1. Click the “Submit Lineup” button to lock your entries.
Strategies for Winning MotoGP DFS in Minnesota
You require more than intuition to potentially win in MotoGP DFS. Having a strong strategy can give you a more competitive edge. Below are key considerations to keep in mind:
Research Rider Performance
Generally, consistently well-performing riders often offer more reliability. For instance, a rider who has been consistently finishing in the top three may provide good rewards. Look at every rider’s performance history, including aspects like lap times, finishing positions, penalties, and injuries. Such factors will give you insights into which riders to select for your lineup. Also, remember to check riders’ skills, strengths, and weaknesses, as these may impact their overall performance.
Track History
Having a good idea of the track history will also strengthen your strategy. Some riders perform exceptionally well on specific circuits. Riders who perform well on tight technical courses may not perform as well on fast tracks. If you notice that a specific rider has a consistent positive record on a particular track, selecting them for similar tracks may be a good move for your lineup.
Weather Conditions
Weather can drastically affect race results. High temperatures may make riders more exhausted easily. On the other hand, rain makes tracks wet and slippery. Such tracks may favor riders with excellent handling skills over high speeds. To navigate the challenges of weather conditions, research the race-day forecast and select riders with a history of good performance under such conditions.
Legal Considerations for Playing DFS in Minnesota
All in-state sports betting is illegal in Minnesota. However, the state does not have specific legislation regulating DFS. As a result, Minnesota residents continue to play DFS, including MotoGP DFS, in a gray area. Reputable platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks provide MotoGP DFS in Minnesota while ensuring fair play. These platforms typically verifies that you are at least 18 years old and reside within Minnesota to access the available MotoGP DFS contests. They also have responsible gaming features like self-exclusion tools and deposit limits to allow you to stay in control of your play.
Playing MotoGP DFS in Minnesota with NXTbets
NXTbets remains committed to promoting responsible MotoGP DFS playing in Minnesota. We have highlighted the essential steps and strategies to get you started on a strong foot. Whether new to daily fantasy sports or a seasoned MotoGP DFS player, this blog will enhance your play and increase your chances of success. We also offer reliable resources to enable you to play in an enjoyable and safe environment. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed of the updates and new trends in MotoGP. To get started with MotoGP DFS, visit NXTbets and start playing today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do Higher/Lower Contests Work in MotoGP DFS?
In Higher/Lower contests, you predict if a rider will perform higher or lower than their projected stats.
Are There Promo Codes for New Players in Minnesota?
Yes, Minnesota players can access exclusive promo codes through NXTbets to enjoy bonuses on their first deposits.
Can I Play Other Sports on Underdog Fantasy in Minnesota?
Yes. Underdog Fantasy offers DFS contests for other sports like Formula 1, NFL, NHL, NBA, MLB, Tennis, WNBA, and MMA. To access these contests, create an account on Underdog Fantasy through NXTbets.
How Can I Play Responsibly While Participating in DFS?
Set a clear deposit for every contest.
Only deposit what you can afford to lose.
Know when to stop playing.
Do not chase after your losses; take a break and adjust your strategy.
Manage your bankroll effectively.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Victoria’s Allan Labor Government formally rejected a request from MotoGP Sports Entertainment (formerly Dorna Sports, also referred to as MotoGP Sports Entertainment SL) to move the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix from Phillip Island to Melbourne’s Albert Park, and tied extra state funding to keeping the race at Phillip Island beyond 2026. The government said the event was “synonymous with Phillip Island,” and framed the Grand Prix as vital for tourism, local businesses and jobs. It conditioned any additional cash to upgrade facilities on MotoGP committing to keep the event at Phillip Island, a move that has effectively closed off an immediate relocation to Albert Park.
The decision came as the existing contract between Dorna and the state is due to expire at the end of 2026. Dorna had argued Phillip Island did not meet current World Championship infrastructure standards, and reports in late 2025 showed the promoter was keen to relocate. Attendance weakened in 2025, with the Australian round among five grands prix that had weekend crowds under 100,000, and supporters launched a petition in late 2025 to keep the race at Phillip Island. The government’s backing included references to a proposed cash injection — the pledged amount and whether it was accepted were not confirmed in reports — and Phillip Island has hosted the Australian MotoGP 29 times.
Local politicians and officials welcomed the decision. Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos called Phillip Island the “home of the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix,” Bass Coast Mayor Rochelle Halstead said she hoped any investment would be directed toward facility upgrades to meet standards, and Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said Labor would defend the Bass Coast’s interests. The announcement kept the current contract timeline intact while signaling Victoria’s willingness to upgrade and financially back the race so long as it remains at Phillip Island, even as other jurisdictions such as South Australia and the Bend motorsport complex have been reported as interested in hosting the event in the future.
The 2026 MotoGP season is set to begin this weekend with the Thailand Grand Prix at Buriram International Circuit, running Friday–Sunday, Feb. 27–March 1. Organizers have published a local “your time” session timetable to help fans tune in from their time zones, and preview and guide pieces consolidate the season-opening schedule along with broadcast/how-to-watch details, viewing channels, and logistical information as a single reference for attendees and remote viewers.
The published three-day timetable lays out practice, qualifying, the Tissot Sprint, and the full Grand Prix. Friday includes Free Practice No. 1 at 03:45 local time and an additional practice at 08:00. Saturday lists Free Practice No. 2 at 03:10, Qualifying 1 at 03:50, Qualifying 2 at 04:15, and the Tissot Sprint at 08:00. Sunday shows a Warm Up at 03:40 and the main Grand Prix. The organizers’ timetable lists the main race at 08:00 local time, while another report specifies the 26-lap MotoGP main race at 3:00 p.m. local time on March 1.
Buriram will host the season opener for the second consecutive year, and previews revisit memorable moments from past Thai Grands Prix while framing the round as both the season kickoff and an early focal point. The weekend also serves as an early fitness test for riders returning from recent injuries. The list includes Marc Márquez, who won 11 races from 18 grands prix in 2025 but missed the final four rounds after shoulder surgery following an injury in Indonesia. Marquez said after a testing crash in Buriram that he “hasn’t recovered” as expected.
The championship grid is largely unchanged for 2026, though Toprak Razgatlıoğlu joins Prima Pramac and Diogo Moreira replaces Somkiat Chantra at LCR Honda, as organizers and fans count down to lights out.
MotoGP officials and riders moved to overhaul start-line procedures and grid formation after a string of first-corner pile-ups culminated in a five-rider crash at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Jorge Martín admitted sole responsibility for the Balaton Park collision that collected Marco Bezzecchi, Fabio Di Giannantonio, Raúl Fernández and Fermín Aldeguer, and he was handed a double long-lap penalty for the next race. The incident followed an earlier violent turn-one crash in Barcelona that required Johann Zarco to undergo surgery, and the sequence of accidents has reignited debate about start-line safety, including whether holeshot and ride-height devices should be banned and whether resurfaced low-grip asphalt at Turn One contributed to the pileups.
Series officials and teams have opened several concrete proposals to reduce first-corner risk. Organizers agreed to increase the distance between the three starting positions on each row by three meters, a change scheduled to take effect at the German Grand Prix before the summer break. Trials have already been held of a two-rider-per-row formation, and Sky Italia and others have suggested testing an F1-style staggered start to give riders more room into Turn One. Chief Sporting Officer Carlos Ezpeleta said holeshot devices “will not be here in 2027” and indicated officials are discussing whether action on starting devices can be taken this year, with further formal decisions expected from governing bodies and race directors.
Stakeholders remain divided on causes and remedies. Jack Miller publicly urged the immediate removal of the front start device, saying Martín’s bike “jumped” when he tried to remove it and pointing to slippery new asphalt and higher approach speeds at Balaton as factors. Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola rejected the device theory and blamed rider error. Observers warned that wider grid separation could disproportionately disadvantage Martín because qualifying has been his biggest weakness this season. Former rider Virginio Ferrari cautioned that rule changes alone will not solve the problem and called for a broader safety effort through rider education, while officials continue investigations into the recent crashes and weigh a mix of procedural, technical and cultural responses.
Marco Bezzecchi was taken to hospital for further evaluation after a violent crash during the MotoGP Dutch Grand Prix at Assen. The Aprilia rider lost the front at Turn 15 while battling Marc Marquez for a podium place, was launched into the gravel, barrel-rolled to a stop near the barriers and was treated first at the circuit medical center before being transferred to Groningen Hospital for more scans. Doctors said he was conscious, had normal movement in all four limbs and showed no signs of major neurological or systemic complications, but he was in severe pain and needed tests to rule out hidden injuries.
Bezzecchi had started the race from the front row in third place but lost positions on the opening lap before the crash. Reports varied on whether the fall came on lap two or lap three, but all accounts placed it at Turn 15 in a high-speed incident that drew immediate medical concern.
The crash also ended Bezzecchi’s lead in the 2026 MotoGP championship. After the Dutch Grand Prix, he stood second in the standings, seven points behind Jorge Martin, who finished third at Assen. The result marked Bezzecchi’s third consecutive points-free race during a difficult June in which he had already lost the championship lead.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in Minnesota
MotoGP DFS has been gaining attention among motorsport enthusiasts in Minnesota. This is because it allows you to interact directly with MotoGP. It lets you make fresh picks for every event and adjust your strategy. In MotoGP DFS, you select riders and then predict whether their finishing position will be higher or lower than what is projected.
MotoGP DFS is legal and available on platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks in Minnesota. These platform complies with all state gaming regulations to ensure fair play. In this guide, we will discuss the key steps to playing MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks. We will also walk you through creating an account, funding it, selecting riders, and choosing contests. We will highlight crucial strategies to increase your chances of winning in MotoGP DFS.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing MotoGP DFS in Minnesota in Underdog Fantasy
Getting started on MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy is straightforward. Follow the steps below:
Step 1 – Sign Up for Underdog Fantasy
You can create an account on Underdog Fantasy through the official website or download the mobile app. To sign up through the website:
Step 2 – Funding Your Account
With a fully verified account, you must fund your account to access the available contests. Below are the steps to deposit money in your account:
You can also access the “Deposit” option by clicking “Account” once logged in, then follow the rest of the steps to complete the transaction.
Step 3 – Finding MotoGP DFS Contests on Underdog Fantasy
Finding MotoGP DFS contests on Underdog Fantasy is simple. On the homepage, you can locate contests under Pick’em. For MotoGP DFS, you can play the higher/lower contest featured in the pick’em section. In higher/lower contests, you predict whether a rider will perform higher or lower than their projected finishing position.
Step 4 – Making Your MotoGP DFS Picks
Success in MotoGP DFS depends on the strength and ability of your picks. To build a more competitive lineup, evaluate every rider’s stats. Consider their recent performance data, such as lap times and finishing positions. This will give you invaluable insights into a rider’s track record. You should also consider the different track conditions and how riders perform under them. Every track has unique features, and riders perform differently on specific tracks. If a rider has a record of consistent positive performance on a similar track, they may be a strong choice for your lineup.
Underdog Fantasy allows you to make pre-game and in-game picks, so ensure you choose riders who fit your strategy.
Step 5 – Monitoring Your Picks and Winning Real Money
Once you submit your lineup, watch the race progress, paying attention to your riders’ performances. Also, check the real-time updates through Underdog Fantasy’s live feature. The rankings are updated regularly depending on the real-time events. If your lineup wins, you can claim your winnings, which will be ready for withdrawal from your account.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in PrizePicks
Playing MotoGP DFS in PrizePicks is similar to Underdog Fantasy except for a few different features. Here’s how to go about it:
Step 1: Register an Account
Like underdog Fantasy, you need an account to participate in MotoGP DFS contests in PrizePicks. To do this, visit PrizePick’s official website on your device. You can use your desktop or the mobile app available for both iOS and Android. Click the “Sign Up” button at the right corner of the home page. You will be redirected to a page where you can fill in your details like name, email address, and date of birth and provide a secure password.
For the promo code option, use our code “NXT” to enjoy up to a $50 instant cash bonus when you enter your first $5 contest. These bonuses are crucial since they give you extra cash to play with without risking a significant part of your bankroll.
You must verify your identity to set up your account fully. Therefore, ensure you turn on your location since the platform uses geolocation to verify your identity. Next, provide your details, like name and address, and then click the confirmation link via email.
Step 2: Deposit Money into Your Account
Next, you must fund your account to enter contests. PrizePicks allows the following deposit methods:
To fund your account, locate the “+” button at the top right corner of the desktop or mobile app. Alternatively, you can navigate to the deposit page. Select your preferred payment method and follow the subsequent prompts to complete the transaction.
Step 3: Enter the MotoGP DFS Contest
To enter a contest, navigate to MotoGP in the lobby. Next, select at least two and a maximum of six players with up to 25x payouts. For each player, choose “More” or “Less” based on their projections, then select the type of contest format to participate in.
This platform has Pick’em and Pick’em arena contests. In Pick’em, you can either play Power Play or Flex. In Power Play, all your selections must be correct for you to win, while Flex allows a margin of error, so you may still win even if some of your selections are wrong.
On the other hand, in Pick’em Arena, you compete against other players and potentially win real money if you have the best lineup.
Once you select Power Play or Flex, enter your entry fee. You will notice that the default entry fee is $20; however, you can edit this to fit your interests and preferences. The minimum entry fee is typically $1. Click the “Submit Lineup” button to lock your entries.
Strategies for Winning MotoGP DFS in Minnesota
You require more than intuition to potentially win in MotoGP DFS. Having a strong strategy can give you a more competitive edge. Below are key considerations to keep in mind:
Research Rider Performance
Generally, consistently well-performing riders often offer more reliability. For instance, a rider who has been consistently finishing in the top three may provide good rewards. Look at every rider’s performance history, including aspects like lap times, finishing positions, penalties, and injuries. Such factors will give you insights into which riders to select for your lineup. Also, remember to check riders’ skills, strengths, and weaknesses, as these may impact their overall performance.
Track History
Having a good idea of the track history will also strengthen your strategy. Some riders perform exceptionally well on specific circuits. Riders who perform well on tight technical courses may not perform as well on fast tracks. If you notice that a specific rider has a consistent positive record on a particular track, selecting them for similar tracks may be a good move for your lineup.
Weather Conditions
Weather can drastically affect race results. High temperatures may make riders more exhausted easily. On the other hand, rain makes tracks wet and slippery. Such tracks may favor riders with excellent handling skills over high speeds. To navigate the challenges of weather conditions, research the race-day forecast and select riders with a history of good performance under such conditions.
Legal Considerations for Playing DFS in Minnesota
All in-state sports betting is illegal in Minnesota. However, the state does not have specific legislation regulating DFS. As a result, Minnesota residents continue to play DFS, including MotoGP DFS, in a gray area. Reputable platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks provide MotoGP DFS in Minnesota while ensuring fair play. These platforms typically verifies that you are at least 18 years old and reside within Minnesota to access the available MotoGP DFS contests. They also have responsible gaming features like self-exclusion tools and deposit limits to allow you to stay in control of your play.
Playing MotoGP DFS in Minnesota with NXTbets
NXTbets remains committed to promoting responsible MotoGP DFS playing in Minnesota. We have highlighted the essential steps and strategies to get you started on a strong foot. Whether new to daily fantasy sports or a seasoned MotoGP DFS player, this blog will enhance your play and increase your chances of success. We also offer reliable resources to enable you to play in an enjoyable and safe environment. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed of the updates and new trends in MotoGP. To get started with MotoGP DFS, visit NXTbets and start playing today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In Higher/Lower contests, you predict if a rider will perform higher or lower than their projected stats.
Yes, Minnesota players can access exclusive promo codes through NXTbets to enjoy bonuses on their first deposits.
Yes. Underdog Fantasy offers DFS contests for other sports like Formula 1, NFL, NHL, NBA, MLB, Tennis, WNBA, and MMA. To access these contests, create an account on Underdog Fantasy through NXTbets.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Related Posts
Labor Links Venue Funding to MotoGP at Phillip Island
Victoria’s Allan Labor Government formally rejected a request from MotoGP Sports Entertainment (formerly Dorna Sports, also referred to as MotoGP Sports Entertainment SL) to move the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix from Phillip Island to Melbourne’s Albert Park, and tied extra state funding to keeping the race at Phillip Island beyond 2026. The government said the event was “synonymous with Phillip Island,” and framed the Grand Prix as vital for tourism, local businesses and jobs. It conditioned any additional cash to upgrade facilities on MotoGP committing to keep the event at Phillip Island, a move that has effectively closed off an immediate relocation to Albert Park.
The decision came as the existing contract between Dorna and the state is due to expire at the end of 2026. Dorna had argued Phillip Island did not meet current World Championship infrastructure standards, and reports in late 2025 showed the promoter was keen to relocate. Attendance weakened in 2025, with the Australian round among five grands prix that had weekend crowds under 100,000, and supporters launched a petition in late 2025 to keep the race at Phillip Island. The government’s backing included references to a proposed cash injection — the pledged amount and whether it was accepted were not confirmed in reports — and Phillip Island has hosted the Australian MotoGP 29 times.
Local politicians and officials welcomed the decision. Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos called Phillip Island the “home of the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix,” Bass Coast Mayor Rochelle Halstead said she hoped any investment would be directed toward facility upgrades to meet standards, and Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said Labor would defend the Bass Coast’s interests. The announcement kept the current contract timeline intact while signaling Victoria’s willingness to upgrade and financially back the race so long as it remains at Phillip Island, even as other jurisdictions such as South Australia and the Bend motorsport complex have been reported as interested in hosting the event in the future.
Thailand GP Reveals Buriram Schedule and Viewing Guide
The 2026 MotoGP season is set to begin this weekend with the Thailand Grand Prix at Buriram International Circuit, running Friday–Sunday, Feb. 27–March 1. Organizers have published a local “your time” session timetable to help fans tune in from their time zones, and preview and guide pieces consolidate the season-opening schedule along with broadcast/how-to-watch details, viewing channels, and logistical information as a single reference for attendees and remote viewers.
The published three-day timetable lays out practice, qualifying, the Tissot Sprint, and the full Grand Prix. Friday includes Free Practice No. 1 at 03:45 local time and an additional practice at 08:00. Saturday lists Free Practice No. 2 at 03:10, Qualifying 1 at 03:50, Qualifying 2 at 04:15, and the Tissot Sprint at 08:00. Sunday shows a Warm Up at 03:40 and the main Grand Prix. The organizers’ timetable lists the main race at 08:00 local time, while another report specifies the 26-lap MotoGP main race at 3:00 p.m. local time on March 1.
Buriram will host the season opener for the second consecutive year, and previews revisit memorable moments from past Thai Grands Prix while framing the round as both the season kickoff and an early focal point. The weekend also serves as an early fitness test for riders returning from recent injuries. The list includes Marc Márquez, who won 11 races from 18 grands prix in 2025 but missed the final four rounds after shoulder surgery following an injury in Indonesia. Marquez said after a testing crash in Buriram that he “hasn’t recovered” as expected.
The championship grid is largely unchanged for 2026, though Toprak Razgatlıoğlu joins Prima Pramac and Diogo Moreira replaces Somkiat Chantra at LCR Honda, as organizers and fans count down to lights out.
Ezpeleta: holeshot devices out by 2027, action could come sooner
MotoGP officials and riders moved to overhaul start-line procedures and grid formation after a string of first-corner pile-ups culminated in a five-rider crash at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Jorge Martín admitted sole responsibility for the Balaton Park collision that collected Marco Bezzecchi, Fabio Di Giannantonio, Raúl Fernández and Fermín Aldeguer, and he was handed a double long-lap penalty for the next race. The incident followed an earlier violent turn-one crash in Barcelona that required Johann Zarco to undergo surgery, and the sequence of accidents has reignited debate about start-line safety, including whether holeshot and ride-height devices should be banned and whether resurfaced low-grip asphalt at Turn One contributed to the pileups.
Series officials and teams have opened several concrete proposals to reduce first-corner risk. Organizers agreed to increase the distance between the three starting positions on each row by three meters, a change scheduled to take effect at the German Grand Prix before the summer break. Trials have already been held of a two-rider-per-row formation, and Sky Italia and others have suggested testing an F1-style staggered start to give riders more room into Turn One. Chief Sporting Officer Carlos Ezpeleta said holeshot devices “will not be here in 2027” and indicated officials are discussing whether action on starting devices can be taken this year, with further formal decisions expected from governing bodies and race directors.
Stakeholders remain divided on causes and remedies. Jack Miller publicly urged the immediate removal of the front start device, saying Martín’s bike “jumped” when he tried to remove it and pointing to slippery new asphalt and higher approach speeds at Balaton as factors. Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola rejected the device theory and blamed rider error. Observers warned that wider grid separation could disproportionately disadvantage Martín because qualifying has been his biggest weakness this season. Former rider Virginio Ferrari cautioned that rule changes alone will not solve the problem and called for a broader safety effort through rider education, while officials continue investigations into the recent crashes and weigh a mix of procedural, technical and cultural responses.
Bezzecchi taken to hospital after violent Assen crash
Marco Bezzecchi was taken to hospital for further evaluation after a violent crash during the MotoGP Dutch Grand Prix at Assen. The Aprilia rider lost the front at Turn 15 while battling Marc Marquez for a podium place, was launched into the gravel, barrel-rolled to a stop near the barriers and was treated first at the circuit medical center before being transferred to Groningen Hospital for more scans. Doctors said he was conscious, had normal movement in all four limbs and showed no signs of major neurological or systemic complications, but he was in severe pain and needed tests to rule out hidden injuries.
Bezzecchi had started the race from the front row in third place but lost positions on the opening lap before the crash. Reports varied on whether the fall came on lap two or lap three, but all accounts placed it at Turn 15 in a high-speed incident that drew immediate medical concern.
The crash also ended Bezzecchi’s lead in the 2026 MotoGP championship. After the Dutch Grand Prix, he stood second in the standings, seven points behind Jorge Martin, who finished third at Assen. The result marked Bezzecchi’s third consecutive points-free race during a difficult June in which he had already lost the championship lead.