South Carolina prohibits all forms of sports wagering. Resident MotoGP enthusiasts cannot bet on qualifiers, races, or events. While the ban may be disappointing, especially for new residents, the state allows sports lovers to engage in Daily Fantasy Sports through platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks. Do not worry if you’ve just learned of Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) for the first time— we will provide you with all the necessary information.
NXTbets specializes in in-depth information, useful resources, and real-time data on niche sports like MotoGP. Besides safe and disciplined sports betting, we recognize and recommend Daily Fantasy Sports, especially in states that have yet to legalize sports betting. Continue reading to learn more about South Carolina MotoGP DFS, including its legal status and strategies.
How to Play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy in South Carolina
While sports betting involves predicting race/match outcomes, Daily Fantasy Sports lets you pick riders and predict whether they will achieve certain objectives. For example, you will predict whether a rider will finish higher/lower than a particular finishing position. The picks you make are only useful for that specific event. You have to make fresh picks for every MotoGP DFS event you participate in.
Use the following steps to join and participate in Underdog Fantasy’s MotoGP DFS contests in South Carolina:
Step-by-Step Guide on Playing MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy in South Carolina
Step 1: Sign Up for Underdog Fantasy
Underdog Fantasy is a leading, secure, and regulated DFS platform. To sign up:
Visit the Underdog Fantasy website or download their mobile application. Underdog Fantasy has mobile applications for both iOS and Android.
Enter Relevant Details: Ensure you enter your details in the relevant fields. The required details include a password, username, email address, and, in some instances, identification.
Enter a Relevant Promo Code: Underdog Fantasy has amazing sign-up bonuses, mostly unlocked through promo codes. You can learn more about Underdog Fantasy’s special sign-up bonuses and promotions on NXTbets.
Agree to Terms and Conditions: While Underdog Fantasy is accessible to South Carolina residents, users must be at least 18 years old. Read the platform’s terms and conditions carefully and submit your application upon acceptance.
Note: Underdog Fantasy requires new members to verify their accounts for safety and regulatory compliance. If prompted, provide timely and accurate proof of identity or residence.
Step 2: Deposit Funds and Get Ready to Play
The next step is depositing funds. You can safely fund your account using a credit/debit card or an e-wallet like PayPal. To deposit:
Navigate to the deposit page (on the website or in your mobile application)
Choose your preferred payment method (either PayPal or credit/debit cards)
Enter your deposit amount (Underdog Fantasy has a $10 deposit limit)
Take advantage of Underdog Fantasy’s deposit-match bonus when funding your account for the first time. For example, the platform may offer you a 100% match bonus deposit of up to $1000, translating to play credits of a similar value when you deposit $1,000 (or below). You need a huge deposit for a bigger bonus.
Step 3: Choose a MotoGP Contest
Underdog Fantasy offers different DFS contests with unique formats and rewards. Options applicable to MotoGP DFS include:
Pick’em Contests
Participants choose whether specific riders will meet, fail to meet, or exceed certain benchmarks. Common benchmarks include lap completion time. You get to select whether a rider will perform better/worse than a projected result.
Step 4: Create Your MotoGP Playslip
Consider the following factors for a winning playslip:
Performance History: Prioritize riders with solid, consistent performance records or history, especially in recent races or events.
Race History and Track Analysis: Remember to analyze riders’ past performance on specific tracks. Factors like track familiarity and riding style compatibility often influence rider performance.
Current Form and Health Status: Riders’ fitness and recent forms commonly impact their performance. Identify issues that may affect a rider’s MotoGP performance, e.g., injuries or health challenges.
Weather and Track Conditions: Weather can affect riders’ overall performance through track conditions. Riders with excellent control skills often thrive in wet/slippery tracks, while dry tracks reward speed.
Step 5- Track Your Lineup During the Race
You can participate in the action by tracking your DFS picks. Use Underdog Fantasy’s real-time scoring feature to monitor your performance after every lap. The platform, however, prohibits playslip variations once the race begins; therefore, exercise care and diligence before submission.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing MotoGP DFS on PrizePicks in South Carolina
PrizePicks also allows MotoGP fans in South Carolina to play DFS contests. Follow the steps below:
Sign up with the platform: Visit PrizePicks’ official website or mobile application and click the sign-up button. In the appropriate fields, enter your email address, name, date of birth, and a unique password.
Enter a Promo Code: PrizePicks offers sign-up bonuses for new users. While the bonuses vary depending on the source (generally PrizePick’s affiliates), enter the code “NXT” for a chance to win $50 on your first $5 entry.
Submit your details: Review the information you’ve entered and submit if correct.
Verify Your ID (Gov’t-Issued ID required)
You must verify your identity before joining PrizePicks for regulatory compliance and as a data protection safeguard. To verify your ID:
Provide accurate information: PrizePicks mostly asks for your real name or official address for ID authentication. Provide accurate details.
Submit a valid ID: Support your identity claim by submitting a valid legal identification.
If you encounter a problem or second-level verification, kindly contact customer support.
3. Fund Your Account
The third step is to make a qualifying deposit as follows:
Select a payment method: Tap the green “+” symbol on the app’s top right corner (beside the balance). Next, choose a suitable payment method: online banking, credit/debit card, Venmo, Apple Pay, or PayPal.
Enter the relevant details: Key in accurate payment details. These can be the card number (credit/debit cards), real mobile number (online banking), or your online wallet details (PayPal, Venmo).
Enter the deposit amount: Enter the amount you wish to deposit and complete the transaction. Remember, PrizePicks has a $10 deposit limit.
4. Select MotoGP Races and Player Props
Begin playing after making a qualifying deposit. Follow the steps below:
Select MotoGP contests: PrizePicks has a comprehensive sport catalogue. Identify and select MotoGP, and then review and choose an upcoming race.
Choose your desired player prop: PrizePicks has several stat categories. For MotoGP, you can choose finishing position, laps led, podium finish, or lap time.
Unlike NXTbet’s 3-8 picks, PrizePicks DFS requires 2-6 stats. Remember, the greater the risk, the higher the potential payout.
5. Make Better/Worse Predictions on Stat
It’s time to predict potential performance outcomes. To increase your chances of winning:
Research extensively: Always consider relevant factors. For example, click the lines next to player projection to get the most recent stats and averages.
Make Your Picks: Choose if a player will perform better or worse (more/less on the platform) than the set threshold.
For more detailed and accurate research, visit NXTbets’ MotoGP page for relevant updates, data, and insights.
6. Choose Flex or Power Play and Submit
You should join the DFS contest before the game begins. Here are the final steps:
Review your selections: Check whether you have made the correct entries. Confirm if you relied on the most recent information.
Choose Flex or Power Play: Select Power Play if you are confident of your entries and Flex Play if you are not. To win a Power Play entry, all the picks must be correct. Flex Play entries are paid out even if a pick (or two) is incorrect.
Choose your entry fee: Key in how much you would like to spend on the contest. Remember to stick to your predetermined limits.
Submit your entry: Enter the contest before the deadline. Before submitting your selections, you can check the potential payout and make necessary adjustments.
Have fun as you await your results. You can watch the race or engage with others on PrizePick Discord’s channel.
Key Strategies for Playing MotoGP DFS Successfully
DFS success requires well-thought-out strategies. Here are a few strategies to maximize your wins:
Research the Riders and Tracks
Analyze individual MotoGP rider statistics, including podium finishes, previous performance history, and average race times. Prioritize consistent top performers.
Consider Team Dynamics: Team dynamics may impact MotoGP race outcomes. Therefore, team cohesion, performance history, and race strategies should be considered during rider selection.
Consider Riders’ Track History: Study every rider’s experience and performance on specific tracks. Some excel on technical tracks, while others thrive in street circuits.
Monitor Weather and Track Conditions
Consider the following aspects when monitoring weather and track conditions:
Weather Forecasts: Weather (rain or hot temperatures) often influences MotoGP outcomes. To be safe, use reliable weather forecasts to predict the expected race-day weather conditions.
Seasonal Track Changes: Seasonal repairs or maintenance can affect important track characteristics, including grip and speed potential. When choosing riders, always consider recent track changes, alterations, or conditions.
Note: Be careful when creating lineups. Rainy race days need drivers with excellent precision control and experience in wet condition riding.
Stay Updated with Changes
Always stay updated on riders’ health, team changes, or last-minute adjustments.
Injury Reports: MotoGP is a competitive sport. Most riders suffer injuries from pushing beyond their limits. Use reliable MotoGP platforms and news sources to obtain rider health updates and then use the information for informed lineup decision-making.
Team Changes and Adjustments: Last-minute changes like bike part switches or team order adjustments may affect rider performance. Protect your lineup from unexpected shifts by tracking and factoring in relevant modifications and adjustments.
We urge you to pay close attention to relevant MotoGP news and updates, including last-minute announcements. Factor in (among others) changes in starting positions, rider swaps, and penalties.
Is MotoGP Legal in South Carolina?
Yes. You can freely engage in MotoGP DFS in South Carolina. Here is an overview of the legality of MotoGP DFS in South Carolina:
Legal Classification of DFS in South Carolina: DFS falls under real-money gaming, not traditional sports betting. It is mostly perceived as a skill-based game, as participants make strategic choices based on knowledge and research rather than luck.
Regulation and Compliance: Underdog Fantasy complies with South Carolina’s real money gaming/ Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) regulations. Users enjoy fair play, secure transactions, and enhanced transparency
Conclusion
While South Carolina frowns upon ordinary sports betting, it recognizes Daily Fantasy Sports. Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks have made participating in DFS contests easier than ever. All you need is to sign up with the platforms, fund your account, find relevant DFS contests, submit your playslip, and monitor your performance. Remember to research extensively, monitor weather and track conditions, and stay updated on rider injuries and team changes for a stronger lineup.
At NXTbets, we promise to walk beside you in your DFS journey. Our website is constantly refreshed with real-time DFS data, insights, picks, relevant tools, and resources.
Do not be left out.Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive offers, expert sports betting insights, and legal updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Do I Register for Underdog Fantasy in South Carolina?
Registering for Underdog Fantasy in South Carolina is quite simple. Visit the Underdog Fantasy website (or download the mobile app), enter accurate details, and verify your account (and identity). You can then join contests after your initial deposit.
What DFS Deposit Options Are Available for South Carolina Residents?
Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks support safe and secure payment options. South Carolina users can fund their accounts through PayPal, online banking, Venmo and credit/debit cards.
Can I Play MotoGP DFS on Mobile in South Carolina?
Yes. Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks have a mobile applications for both Android and iOS users. Download a compatible version from the relevant app store and set up your account for convenient play.
Are There Any Welcome Bonuses for New South Carolina Players on Underdog DFS?
Yes. Underdog Fantasy has exclusive sign-up promos and bonuses for South Carolina residents. Understand how specific promos work and enter an accurate code if prompted.
What is the Difference Between MotoGP DFS and Sports Betting?
The simplest difference between MotoGP DFS and sports betting is that MotoGP DFS relies heavily on skills, while sports betting is outcome-based.
How Can I Track My MotoGP DFS LineUp in South Carolina?
You can use PrizePicks’ or Underdog Fantasy's live updates and real-time performance tracking features to track your lineup during the race.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
The 2024 MotoGP Barcelona race has arrived, signaling the finale to an enthralling season of racing. Ducati has wrapped up the constructors and team championships, but like in 2023, the rider’s title is going down to the last race. The pre-event odds favor Bagnaia for victory in Catalonia, although Jorge Martin should have enough in …
California is among the few states in the United States yet to legalize gambling. However, if you are a motorsports enthusiast in California looking for a better way to engage with MotoGP, we recommend Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). It is often classified as a game of skill rather than chance, hence allowed even in regions …
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.
At the Ride 6 presentation and in an exclusive Crash.net interview, Casey Stoner said Marc Márquez’s recent dominance stems from superior tire management, racecraft and a “total symbiosis” with his Ducati Desmosedici. He praised Márquez’s patience and intelligence, saying he conserves tires early in races to exploit greater grip and late-race pace. Stoner highlighted Márquez’s ability to limit electronic intervention and balance traction control with tire preservation, saying “nobody seems to grasp how Márquez balances traction control with preserving Michelin tires,” and compared that approach to F1 drivers such as Max Verstappen, arguing both can wait several laps to regain pace and “effectively extend competitive life by ‘an extra ten or fifteen laps’.” Stoner said Márquez was the favorite to start the 2026 season.
Reports framed Márquez’s 2025 campaign as dominant, noting 25 race wins and 14 of 18 Sprint victories, with the title clinched in Japan. Some outlets described the 2025 crown as his ninth world title, equaling Valentino Rossi, while others characterized it as his seventh MotoGP world championship. He suffered a right-shoulder fracture in Indonesia that forced him to miss the final four rounds, then recovered ahead of his title defense. Stoner pointed to races such as Thailand—where Márquez briefly yielded the lead over a tire-pressure issue before reclaiming it and winning—as examples of his racecraft.
Stoner, who retired in 2012 and never raced Márquez, said the six-year gap between titles (2019–25) and Márquez’s moves from Honda to Gresini and then to the factory Ducati sharpened his ability to build races tactically. He suggested many rivals had treated Márquez as an unbeatable “final boss” and tried to match raw speed rather than learn to out-race him; he added he was surprised no rival had publicly exploited a weakness Márquez once had, but declined to identify it. Stoner concluded competitors face a technical challenge: to close the performance gap they must match Márquez’s feel for the bike and his tire-management strategy.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in South Carolina
South Carolina prohibits all forms of sports wagering. Resident MotoGP enthusiasts cannot bet on qualifiers, races, or events. While the ban may be disappointing, especially for new residents, the state allows sports lovers to engage in Daily Fantasy Sports through platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks. Do not worry if you’ve just learned of Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) for the first time— we will provide you with all the necessary information.
NXTbets specializes in in-depth information, useful resources, and real-time data on niche sports like MotoGP. Besides safe and disciplined sports betting, we recognize and recommend Daily Fantasy Sports, especially in states that have yet to legalize sports betting. Continue reading to learn more about South Carolina MotoGP DFS, including its legal status and strategies.
How to Play MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy in South Carolina
While sports betting involves predicting race/match outcomes, Daily Fantasy Sports lets you pick riders and predict whether they will achieve certain objectives. For example, you will predict whether a rider will finish higher/lower than a particular finishing position. The picks you make are only useful for that specific event. You have to make fresh picks for every MotoGP DFS event you participate in.
Use the following steps to join and participate in Underdog Fantasy’s MotoGP DFS contests in South Carolina:
Step-by-Step Guide on Playing MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy in South Carolina
Step 1: Sign Up for Underdog Fantasy
Underdog Fantasy is a leading, secure, and regulated DFS platform. To sign up:
Note: Underdog Fantasy requires new members to verify their accounts for safety and regulatory compliance. If prompted, provide timely and accurate proof of identity or residence.
Step 2: Deposit Funds and Get Ready to Play
The next step is depositing funds. You can safely fund your account using a credit/debit card or an e-wallet like PayPal. To deposit:
Take advantage of Underdog Fantasy’s deposit-match bonus when funding your account for the first time. For example, the platform may offer you a 100% match bonus deposit of up to $1000, translating to play credits of a similar value when you deposit $1,000 (or below). You need a huge deposit for a bigger bonus.
Step 3: Choose a MotoGP Contest
Underdog Fantasy offers different DFS contests with unique formats and rewards. Options applicable to MotoGP DFS include:
Pick’em Contests
Participants choose whether specific riders will meet, fail to meet, or exceed certain benchmarks. Common benchmarks include lap completion time. You get to select whether a rider will perform better/worse than a projected result.
Step 4: Create Your MotoGP Playslip
Consider the following factors for a winning playslip:
Step 5- Track Your Lineup During the Race
You can participate in the action by tracking your DFS picks. Use Underdog Fantasy’s real-time scoring feature to monitor your performance after every lap. The platform, however, prohibits playslip variations once the race begins; therefore, exercise care and diligence before submission.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing MotoGP DFS on PrizePicks in South Carolina
PrizePicks also allows MotoGP fans in South Carolina to play DFS contests. Follow the steps below:
1. Sign Up and Enter a Promo Code
To create a PrizePicks DFS account:
Verify Your ID (Gov’t-Issued ID required)
You must verify your identity before joining PrizePicks for regulatory compliance and as a data protection safeguard. To verify your ID:
If you encounter a problem or second-level verification, kindly contact customer support.
3. Fund Your Account
The third step is to make a qualifying deposit as follows:
4. Select MotoGP Races and Player Props
Begin playing after making a qualifying deposit. Follow the steps below:
Unlike NXTbet’s 3-8 picks, PrizePicks DFS requires 2-6 stats. Remember, the greater the risk, the higher the potential payout.
5. Make Better/Worse Predictions on Stat
It’s time to predict potential performance outcomes. To increase your chances of winning:
For more detailed and accurate research, visit NXTbets’ MotoGP page for relevant updates, data, and insights.
6. Choose Flex or Power Play and Submit
You should join the DFS contest before the game begins. Here are the final steps:
Have fun as you await your results. You can watch the race or engage with others on PrizePick Discord’s channel.
Key Strategies for Playing MotoGP DFS Successfully
DFS success requires well-thought-out strategies. Here are a few strategies to maximize your wins:
Research the Riders and Tracks
Monitor Weather and Track Conditions
Consider the following aspects when monitoring weather and track conditions:
Note: Be careful when creating lineups. Rainy race days need drivers with excellent precision control and experience in wet condition riding.
Stay Updated with Changes
Always stay updated on riders’ health, team changes, or last-minute adjustments.
We urge you to pay close attention to relevant MotoGP news and updates, including last-minute announcements. Factor in (among others) changes in starting positions, rider swaps, and penalties.
Is MotoGP Legal in South Carolina?
Yes. You can freely engage in MotoGP DFS in South Carolina. Here is an overview of the legality of MotoGP DFS in South Carolina:
Conclusion
While South Carolina frowns upon ordinary sports betting, it recognizes Daily Fantasy Sports. Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks have made participating in DFS contests easier than ever. All you need is to sign up with the platforms, fund your account, find relevant DFS contests, submit your playslip, and monitor your performance. Remember to research extensively, monitor weather and track conditions, and stay updated on rider injuries and team changes for a stronger lineup.
At NXTbets, we promise to walk beside you in your DFS journey. Our website is constantly refreshed with real-time DFS data, insights, picks, relevant tools, and resources.
You can start by learning how to get started with Daily Fantasy Sports or responsible DFS gaming.
Do not be left out. Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive offers, expert sports betting insights, and legal updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Registering for Underdog Fantasy in South Carolina is quite simple. Visit the Underdog Fantasy website (or download the mobile app), enter accurate details, and verify your account (and identity). You can then join contests after your initial deposit.
Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks support safe and secure payment options. South Carolina users can fund their accounts through PayPal, online banking, Venmo and credit/debit cards.
Yes. Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks have a mobile applications for both Android and iOS users. Download a compatible version from the relevant app store and set up your account for convenient play.
Yes. Underdog Fantasy has exclusive sign-up promos and bonuses for South Carolina residents. Understand how specific promos work and enter an accurate code if prompted.
The simplest difference between MotoGP DFS and sports betting is that MotoGP DFS relies heavily on skills, while sports betting is outcome-based.
You can use PrizePicks’ or Underdog Fantasy's live updates and real-time performance tracking features to track your lineup during the race.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
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The 2024 MotoGP Barcelona race has arrived, signaling the finale to an enthralling season of racing. Ducati has wrapped up the constructors and team championships, but like in 2023, the rider’s title is going down to the last race. The pre-event odds favor Bagnaia for victory in Catalonia, although Jorge Martin should have enough in …
How to Play MotoGP DFS in California
California is among the few states in the United States yet to legalize gambling. However, if you are a motorsports enthusiast in California looking for a better way to engage with MotoGP, we recommend Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). It is often classified as a game of skill rather than chance, hence allowed even in regions …
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.
Stoner hails Márquez’s tire mastery and Ducati bond
At the Ride 6 presentation and in an exclusive Crash.net interview, Casey Stoner said Marc Márquez’s recent dominance stems from superior tire management, racecraft and a “total symbiosis” with his Ducati Desmosedici. He praised Márquez’s patience and intelligence, saying he conserves tires early in races to exploit greater grip and late-race pace. Stoner highlighted Márquez’s ability to limit electronic intervention and balance traction control with tire preservation, saying “nobody seems to grasp how Márquez balances traction control with preserving Michelin tires,” and compared that approach to F1 drivers such as Max Verstappen, arguing both can wait several laps to regain pace and “effectively extend competitive life by ‘an extra ten or fifteen laps’.” Stoner said Márquez was the favorite to start the 2026 season.
Reports framed Márquez’s 2025 campaign as dominant, noting 25 race wins and 14 of 18 Sprint victories, with the title clinched in Japan. Some outlets described the 2025 crown as his ninth world title, equaling Valentino Rossi, while others characterized it as his seventh MotoGP world championship. He suffered a right-shoulder fracture in Indonesia that forced him to miss the final four rounds, then recovered ahead of his title defense. Stoner pointed to races such as Thailand—where Márquez briefly yielded the lead over a tire-pressure issue before reclaiming it and winning—as examples of his racecraft.
Stoner, who retired in 2012 and never raced Márquez, said the six-year gap between titles (2019–25) and Márquez’s moves from Honda to Gresini and then to the factory Ducati sharpened his ability to build races tactically. He suggested many rivals had treated Márquez as an unbeatable “final boss” and tried to match raw speed rather than learn to out-race him; he added he was surprised no rival had publicly exploited a weakness Márquez once had, but declined to identify it. Stoner concluded competitors face a technical challenge: to close the performance gap they must match Márquez’s feel for the bike and his tire-management strategy.