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
Motor racing is back and it all starts in the “Land of Smiles” on Friday, February 28th. Defending Rider’s Champion Jorge Martin sits on the sidelines for at least the first two races of the campaign after suffering multiple fractures during a recent training ride. With that breaking news out of the way, here is …
Maverick Viñales withdrew from the US MotoGP at COTA after Free Practice 1 when track medical checks found a surgical screw in his previously operated left shoulder had come loose. Tech3 said the displaced screw and ongoing pain forced his withdrawal; Viñales will return to Europe for a minor procedure, and AS reported the operation was scheduled for the week after the Austin round. He was 13th in FP1, nearly a second down on team‑mate Acosta, and had planned to use Friday practice to judge whether he could continue before deciding to withdraw.
The left‑shoulder problem dates to July 2025 and has been linked in reports to Sachsenring qualifying and to a crash at the Italian Grand Prix; Viñales underwent surgery in Italy after that summer injury. Since then he has reported loss of strength and difficulty changing direction, especially when turning left, and his performance has suffered — he completed only five of the final 13 grands prix in 2025, missed eight rounds between the summer incident and the Portuguese round, and has scored just three world championship points since the injury. He entered the season without points from the first two rounds amid reported KTM specification problems, and has been running a different KTM RC16 configuration while managing the shoulder. Over the winter he worked with coach Jorge Lorenzo and took part in a February Sepang test when he believed the shoulder had healed.
Tech3 says Viñales is targeting a return at Jerez (April 24–26). The postponement of the Qatar race gives him an additional recovery window before that weekend. Viñales said he is “worried about my future,” has not ruled out further surgery, and has previously avoided publicly detailing the injury for fear it could lead to being sidelined by KTM and affect his salary.
Maverick Viñales announced at the KTM/Tech3 KTM 2026 launch that he has hired three-time champion Jorge Lorenzo as his performance coach. The formal partnership is formed to turn Viñales’s clear, raw pace into a sustained title challenge. Lorenzo’s remit covers technical areas such as throttle management, braking, race-specific preparation, and setting concrete, measurable goals; he is expected to join Viñales for testing and early races and has already been working closely with him since being brought in late in the previous season. Viñales said discussions about working together began after his double win at the 2024 Grand Prix of the Americas, though family timing delayed his ability to commit full-time. The hire represents a notable personnel change at Tech3 KTM and a pragmatic reconciliation between two former rivals who have moved from public barbs to a close, performance-focused working relationship.
Viñales also confirmed he has recovered from the Sachsenring shoulder injury that disrupted his 2025 campaign and missed the second half of that season. He reports he has regained weight, up 13 pounds from a previous benchmark of 134 pounds. In addition, the Red Bull Athlete Performance Center has confirmed his power has returned, and he expects to be fully fit for the upcoming Sepang test. Winter work has targeted specific weaknesses. Lorenzo has pushed wet sessions and 600cc training to improve sliding technique and rear-tire use, while Viñales and his engineers have focused on reducing rear shaking and improving cornering. After the first test, Viñales received positive feedback from Pedro Acosta and plans to use the pre-season tests to provide development input and validate measurable progress.
The partnership is presented as both an immediate performance aid and a potential stepping stone toward longer-term moves. Spanish outlet AS reported KTM is prioritizing Viñales as a possible factory signing for 2027 should Pedro Acosta leave. Viñales has emphasized that pure talent isn’t enough and that hard, structured work is required to become a reference point within KTM, with Lorenzo bringing a hands-on coaching approach to convert speed into race-winning consistency. All elements, including physical recovery, targeted technical work, hands-on coaching, and positive early test feedback, are being marshaled with the explicit aim of turning Viñales’s pace into sustained results for the 2026 season and beyond.
Francesco Bagnaia begins the season under heavy scrutiny after a difficult 2025, when he struggled to adapt to Ducati’s GP25 and dropped to fifth in the championship. He finished 257 points behind teammate Marc Márquez, who recorded 11 wins and eight pole positions. Bagnaia’s contract runs through the end of 2026, and pundit Carlo Pernat warned that a repeat of 2025‑level results next season would be “unthinkable.”
Inside the factory garage, team boss Davide Tardozzi said Márquez “helped and protected” Bagnaia during the toughest moments of 2025, describing protective interventions on at least two occasions. Ducati engineers pointed to recurring GP25 issues briefly solved at the Japanese Grand Prix but later resurfacing as part of the explanation for Bagnaia’s dip in form.
At Ducati’s 2026 bike launch in the Dolomites, Bagnaia pushed back against what he called excessive criticism, saying roughly “90%” of the negative commentary was unnecessary. He rejected suggestions that the factory favoured Márquez and emphasised that riders can choose equipment and that the bikes are largely similar.
Off-track, Ducati says it is not yet negotiating a contract extension with Bagnaia. At the launch, he said he felt “extremely relaxed” about his future; some observers interpreted that as openness to leaving after 2026.
Reports conflict over Márquez’s situation. Some outlets report he has agreed a new deal with Ducati, others say Honda remains interested, and some articles reference an in‑principle agreement for 2027–28. Transfer speculation also names Pedro Acosta among possible future Ducati candidates. Potential destinations mentioned, should Bagnaia depart, include VR46, Aprilia (whose CEO Massimo Rivola called Bagnaia a “tempting” candidate), Honda, and Yamaha.
How Bagnaia performs on the GP26 in 2026, the timing and outcome of any contract decisions, and continuing rider‑market activity, including developments around Márquez and Acosta, will shape his standing at Ducati beyond 2026.
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
Best Bets: MotoGP Thailand & 2025 Season Preview
Motor racing is back and it all starts in the “Land of Smiles” on Friday, February 28th. Defending Rider’s Champion Jorge Martin sits on the sidelines for at least the first two races of the campaign after suffering multiple fractures during a recent training ride. With that breaking news out of the way, here is …
Viñales withdraws at COTA after shoulder screw dislodges
Maverick Viñales withdrew from the US MotoGP at COTA after Free Practice 1 when track medical checks found a surgical screw in his previously operated left shoulder had come loose. Tech3 said the displaced screw and ongoing pain forced his withdrawal; Viñales will return to Europe for a minor procedure, and AS reported the operation was scheduled for the week after the Austin round. He was 13th in FP1, nearly a second down on team‑mate Acosta, and had planned to use Friday practice to judge whether he could continue before deciding to withdraw.
The left‑shoulder problem dates to July 2025 and has been linked in reports to Sachsenring qualifying and to a crash at the Italian Grand Prix; Viñales underwent surgery in Italy after that summer injury. Since then he has reported loss of strength and difficulty changing direction, especially when turning left, and his performance has suffered — he completed only five of the final 13 grands prix in 2025, missed eight rounds between the summer incident and the Portuguese round, and has scored just three world championship points since the injury. He entered the season without points from the first two rounds amid reported KTM specification problems, and has been running a different KTM RC16 configuration while managing the shoulder. Over the winter he worked with coach Jorge Lorenzo and took part in a February Sepang test when he believed the shoulder had healed.
Tech3 says Viñales is targeting a return at Jerez (April 24–26). The postponement of the Qatar race gives him an additional recovery window before that weekend. Viñales said he is “worried about my future,” has not ruled out further surgery, and has previously avoided publicly detailing the injury for fear it could lead to being sidelined by KTM and affect his salary.
Viñales Hires Jorge Lorenzo to Convert Pace into Titles
Maverick Viñales announced at the KTM/Tech3 KTM 2026 launch that he has hired three-time champion Jorge Lorenzo as his performance coach. The formal partnership is formed to turn Viñales’s clear, raw pace into a sustained title challenge. Lorenzo’s remit covers technical areas such as throttle management, braking, race-specific preparation, and setting concrete, measurable goals; he is expected to join Viñales for testing and early races and has already been working closely with him since being brought in late in the previous season. Viñales said discussions about working together began after his double win at the 2024 Grand Prix of the Americas, though family timing delayed his ability to commit full-time. The hire represents a notable personnel change at Tech3 KTM and a pragmatic reconciliation between two former rivals who have moved from public barbs to a close, performance-focused working relationship.
Viñales also confirmed he has recovered from the Sachsenring shoulder injury that disrupted his 2025 campaign and missed the second half of that season. He reports he has regained weight, up 13 pounds from a previous benchmark of 134 pounds. In addition, the Red Bull Athlete Performance Center has confirmed his power has returned, and he expects to be fully fit for the upcoming Sepang test. Winter work has targeted specific weaknesses. Lorenzo has pushed wet sessions and 600cc training to improve sliding technique and rear-tire use, while Viñales and his engineers have focused on reducing rear shaking and improving cornering. After the first test, Viñales received positive feedback from Pedro Acosta and plans to use the pre-season tests to provide development input and validate measurable progress.
The partnership is presented as both an immediate performance aid and a potential stepping stone toward longer-term moves. Spanish outlet AS reported KTM is prioritizing Viñales as a possible factory signing for 2027 should Pedro Acosta leave. Viñales has emphasized that pure talent isn’t enough and that hard, structured work is required to become a reference point within KTM, with Lorenzo bringing a hands-on coaching approach to convert speed into race-winning consistency. All elements, including physical recovery, targeted technical work, hands-on coaching, and positive early test feedback, are being marshaled with the explicit aim of turning Viñales’s pace into sustained results for the 2026 season and beyond.
Bagnaia’s Job at Ducati Uncertain After GP25 Struggles
Francesco Bagnaia begins the season under heavy scrutiny after a difficult 2025, when he struggled to adapt to Ducati’s GP25 and dropped to fifth in the championship. He finished 257 points behind teammate Marc Márquez, who recorded 11 wins and eight pole positions. Bagnaia’s contract runs through the end of 2026, and pundit Carlo Pernat warned that a repeat of 2025‑level results next season would be “unthinkable.”
Inside the factory garage, team boss Davide Tardozzi said Márquez “helped and protected” Bagnaia during the toughest moments of 2025, describing protective interventions on at least two occasions. Ducati engineers pointed to recurring GP25 issues briefly solved at the Japanese Grand Prix but later resurfacing as part of the explanation for Bagnaia’s dip in form.
At Ducati’s 2026 bike launch in the Dolomites, Bagnaia pushed back against what he called excessive criticism, saying roughly “90%” of the negative commentary was unnecessary. He rejected suggestions that the factory favoured Márquez and emphasised that riders can choose equipment and that the bikes are largely similar.
Off-track, Ducati says it is not yet negotiating a contract extension with Bagnaia. At the launch, he said he felt “extremely relaxed” about his future; some observers interpreted that as openness to leaving after 2026.
Reports conflict over Márquez’s situation. Some outlets report he has agreed a new deal with Ducati, others say Honda remains interested, and some articles reference an in‑principle agreement for 2027–28. Transfer speculation also names Pedro Acosta among possible future Ducati candidates. Potential destinations mentioned, should Bagnaia depart, include VR46, Aprilia (whose CEO Massimo Rivola called Bagnaia a “tempting” candidate), Honda, and Yamaha.
How Bagnaia performs on the GP26 in 2026, the timing and outcome of any contract decisions, and continuing rider‑market activity, including developments around Márquez and Acosta, will shape his standing at Ducati beyond 2026.