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
Monster Energy became Aprilia Racing’s multi-year MotoGP sponsor, with the partnership announced during the Grand Prix of Italy and set to launch in 2026, and Monster slated to assume official title-sponsor status in 2027. Aprilia described Monster as its first-ever title sponsor and the deal ends Aprilia’s run without a title partner since the squad became a full factory team in 2022. The agreement was presented publicly at the Italian Grand Prix; one report said it took effect immediately on signing, while other reports described a formal planned start date in 2026. No financial terms or detailed operational arrangements were disclosed.
Under the agreement Monster will serve as Aprilia’s main sponsor in 2026 and its logo, including the three-claw mark, will appear on the factory RS-GP machines, riders’ leathers and team assets, with the branding due to start appearing at the Mugello round. Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola called the deal a milestone for the Noale-based manufacturer. Monster Senior Vice President Mitch Covington said the company sees MotoGP as a key global platform and that the partnership advances Monster’s MotoGP presence. The announcement coincided with Jorge Martín putting his personal Red Bull sponsorship on hold and Red Bull branding disappearing from his Aprilia gear; reports said Monster will join Martín’s Aprilia team as the title partner.
The sponsorship comes as Aprilia enjoyed a period of sporting dominance, opening 2026 with three straight Grand Prix wins, reaching the podium in each of the season’s first five races and recording a 1-2-3 at the French Grand Prix. Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martín combined for multiple wins and were first and second in the 2026 rider standings, separated by 15 points, while Aprilia led the manufacturer and team standings. The deal strengthens Aprilia’s commercial positioning at a moment of heightened sporting visibility. The announcement also arrived amid wider commercial speculation, since Monster currently remains Yamaha’s factory title sponsor and Yamaha’s arrangement with Monster has been the subject of reporting that it could change around 2027.
At Mugello, Manuel González won the Moto2 race (the intermediate class) by 5.327 seconds, while Brian Uriarte claimed victory in a dramatic Moto3 finish. Andrea Iannone also took Race 2 of the Harley‑Davidson Bagger World Cup for NITI Racing.
In Moto2, González controlled the race to take the win. Celestino Vietti recovered from 16th on the grid to finish second after a decisive final‑lap pass, and Dani Holgado completed the podium. Senna Agius was fourth and Filip Salač fifth. Alonso López served a long‑lap penalty for contact with Álex Escrig and finished sixth; Escrig crashed and was classified DNF. Izan Guevara was seventh, Barry Baltus eighth, Collin Veijer ninth and Deniz Öncü tenth. Guevara had shown single‑lap speed earlier by topping Moto2 FP2 with the only 1:48 lap in that session.
The Moto3 race featured a frantic late reshuffle. Brian Uriarte took the win after a chaotic closing sequence, Álvaro Carpe was second and Hakim Danish third. Several riders — including two Aspar teammates — dropped back with late mistakes. Adrián Fernández finished fourth, Joel Esteban fifth and Eddie O’Shea secured a career‑best sixth after briefly running second on the last lap. David Muñoz, Veda Pratama, Joel Kelso and Jesús Ríos rounded out the top 10. Carpe had led Moto3 FP2, underlining his race pace.
The MotoGP weekend mixed blistering speed with tyre and equipment questions. Marco Bezzecchi set a new all‑time lap record at Mugello in qualifying to claim pole and also topped the warm‑up session, but his championship lead was cut to 12 points after he missed the Sprint podium. Fabio Di Giannantonio finished third in the Sprint and had earlier dominated practice despite a technical issue that left him with only one GP26 for qualifying. Jorge Martín recorded a new MotoGP top‑speed mark, and Ducati showed strong pace through Friday running; Francesco Bagnaia warned of heavy soft‑rear degradation. Michelin reported a wet morning that dried to about 44°C, recommended the medium front as a reference and left final rear choices pending. Officials set the Sunday grand prix distance at 23 laps. Marc Márquez — declared fit to continue after returning to action following surgery to remove irritating metalwork — started fourth on the grid. Luca Marini received a three‑place grid drop, moving him to 19th.
Other notes: Andrea Iannone won Race 2 of the Harley‑Davidson Bagger World Cup for NITI Racing at Mugello.
LCR Honda became the first Honda-supported team to unveil its 2026 liveries as it builds momentum ahead of Sepang testing. Johann Zarco will retain a Castrol-themed design, red, white, and green with new black and blue accents, while Diogo Moreira’s fairing switches to Pro Honda, ending LCR’s long association with Idemitsu on that bike.
Zarco, 35, arrives at Sepang under a multi-year LCR deal that runs through 2027 and guarantees parity of technical spec and updates with the factory team. He will start his on-track program at the official Sepang test on February 3–5. Moreira, 21, the reigning Moto2 champion, signed a multi-year deal with HRC to race an RC213V in MotoGP and will carry Pro Honda as his title partner. Unlike predecessor Somkiat Chantra, Moreira will have access to factory-spec machinery, and LCR confirmed his full Pro Honda livery will appear on track at Sepang after an initial shakedown run in black.
At the Sepang shakedown, Moreira showed encouraging pace, improving through the session and posting a late best lap of 1:58.338. That time put him ahead of Toprak Razgatlioglu, with KTM test rider Dani Pedrosa splitting them; one account placed Moreira sixth overall while another listed him eighth. Zarco’s new Castrol livery is also due to appear during the Sepang test. The preseason will finish with a final Buriram test on Feb 21–22, ahead of the Thai season opener on Feb 27–Mar 1. The combined sponsorship updates, visual rebrand, and early running data will help shape LCR Honda’s preparations as official testing gets underway.
After an exhilarating Indonesian GP where Jorge Martin secured his first Sunday win since Le Mans, MotoGP shifts to Japan for the highly anticipated Grand Prix at Motegi. Martin’s dominant performance in Indonesia, where he extended his championship lead to 21 points, sets the stage for a thrilling continuation of his battle with Francesco Bagnaia. …
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
Related Posts
Monster to be Aprilia’s main MotoGP sponsor in 2026
Monster Energy became Aprilia Racing’s multi-year MotoGP sponsor, with the partnership announced during the Grand Prix of Italy and set to launch in 2026, and Monster slated to assume official title-sponsor status in 2027. Aprilia described Monster as its first-ever title sponsor and the deal ends Aprilia’s run without a title partner since the squad became a full factory team in 2022. The agreement was presented publicly at the Italian Grand Prix; one report said it took effect immediately on signing, while other reports described a formal planned start date in 2026. No financial terms or detailed operational arrangements were disclosed.
Under the agreement Monster will serve as Aprilia’s main sponsor in 2026 and its logo, including the three-claw mark, will appear on the factory RS-GP machines, riders’ leathers and team assets, with the branding due to start appearing at the Mugello round. Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola called the deal a milestone for the Noale-based manufacturer. Monster Senior Vice President Mitch Covington said the company sees MotoGP as a key global platform and that the partnership advances Monster’s MotoGP presence. The announcement coincided with Jorge Martín putting his personal Red Bull sponsorship on hold and Red Bull branding disappearing from his Aprilia gear; reports said Monster will join Martín’s Aprilia team as the title partner.
The sponsorship comes as Aprilia enjoyed a period of sporting dominance, opening 2026 with three straight Grand Prix wins, reaching the podium in each of the season’s first five races and recording a 1-2-3 at the French Grand Prix. Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martín combined for multiple wins and were first and second in the 2026 rider standings, separated by 15 points, while Aprilia led the manufacturer and team standings. The deal strengthens Aprilia’s commercial positioning at a moment of heightened sporting visibility. The announcement also arrived amid wider commercial speculation, since Monster currently remains Yamaha’s factory title sponsor and Yamaha’s arrangement with Monster has been the subject of reporting that it could change around 2027.
González controls Moto2 as Vietti charges from 16th
At Mugello, Manuel González won the Moto2 race (the intermediate class) by 5.327 seconds, while Brian Uriarte claimed victory in a dramatic Moto3 finish. Andrea Iannone also took Race 2 of the Harley‑Davidson Bagger World Cup for NITI Racing.
In Moto2, González controlled the race to take the win. Celestino Vietti recovered from 16th on the grid to finish second after a decisive final‑lap pass, and Dani Holgado completed the podium. Senna Agius was fourth and Filip Salač fifth. Alonso López served a long‑lap penalty for contact with Álex Escrig and finished sixth; Escrig crashed and was classified DNF. Izan Guevara was seventh, Barry Baltus eighth, Collin Veijer ninth and Deniz Öncü tenth. Guevara had shown single‑lap speed earlier by topping Moto2 FP2 with the only 1:48 lap in that session.
The Moto3 race featured a frantic late reshuffle. Brian Uriarte took the win after a chaotic closing sequence, Álvaro Carpe was second and Hakim Danish third. Several riders — including two Aspar teammates — dropped back with late mistakes. Adrián Fernández finished fourth, Joel Esteban fifth and Eddie O’Shea secured a career‑best sixth after briefly running second on the last lap. David Muñoz, Veda Pratama, Joel Kelso and Jesús Ríos rounded out the top 10. Carpe had led Moto3 FP2, underlining his race pace.
The MotoGP weekend mixed blistering speed with tyre and equipment questions. Marco Bezzecchi set a new all‑time lap record at Mugello in qualifying to claim pole and also topped the warm‑up session, but his championship lead was cut to 12 points after he missed the Sprint podium. Fabio Di Giannantonio finished third in the Sprint and had earlier dominated practice despite a technical issue that left him with only one GP26 for qualifying. Jorge Martín recorded a new MotoGP top‑speed mark, and Ducati showed strong pace through Friday running; Francesco Bagnaia warned of heavy soft‑rear degradation. Michelin reported a wet morning that dried to about 44°C, recommended the medium front as a reference and left final rear choices pending. Officials set the Sunday grand prix distance at 23 laps. Marc Márquez — declared fit to continue after returning to action following surgery to remove irritating metalwork — started fourth on the grid. Luca Marini received a three‑place grid drop, moving him to 19th.
Other notes: Andrea Iannone won Race 2 of the Harley‑Davidson Bagger World Cup for NITI Racing at Mugello.
LCR Honda Unveils 2026 Castrol and Pro Honda Liveries
LCR Honda became the first Honda-supported team to unveil its 2026 liveries as it builds momentum ahead of Sepang testing. Johann Zarco will retain a Castrol-themed design, red, white, and green with new black and blue accents, while Diogo Moreira’s fairing switches to Pro Honda, ending LCR’s long association with Idemitsu on that bike.
Zarco, 35, arrives at Sepang under a multi-year LCR deal that runs through 2027 and guarantees parity of technical spec and updates with the factory team. He will start his on-track program at the official Sepang test on February 3–5. Moreira, 21, the reigning Moto2 champion, signed a multi-year deal with HRC to race an RC213V in MotoGP and will carry Pro Honda as his title partner. Unlike predecessor Somkiat Chantra, Moreira will have access to factory-spec machinery, and LCR confirmed his full Pro Honda livery will appear on track at Sepang after an initial shakedown run in black.
At the Sepang shakedown, Moreira showed encouraging pace, improving through the session and posting a late best lap of 1:58.338. That time put him ahead of Toprak Razgatlioglu, with KTM test rider Dani Pedrosa splitting them; one account placed Moreira sixth overall while another listed him eighth. Zarco’s new Castrol livery is also due to appear during the Sepang test. The preseason will finish with a final Buriram test on Feb 21–22, ahead of the Thai season opener on Feb 27–Mar 1. The combined sponsorship updates, visual rebrand, and early running data will help shape LCR Honda’s preparations as official testing gets underway.
Best Bets: MotoGP Japan GP 2024 Pre-Event Odds Analysis
After an exhilarating Indonesian GP where Jorge Martin secured his first Sunday win since Le Mans, MotoGP shifts to Japan for the highly anticipated Grand Prix at Motegi. Martin’s dominant performance in Indonesia, where he extended his championship lead to 21 points, sets the stage for a thrilling continuation of his battle with Francesco Bagnaia. …