The 2026 MotoGP calendar has been unveiled, featuring 22 rounds with a notable return of the Brazilian Grand Prix. The season kicks off in Thailand in March and concludes in Valencia in late November, introducing changes aimed at improving the racing schedule and rider experience.
Brazil Returns to the MotoGP Circuit
The Brazilian Grand Prix will rejoin the MotoGP calendar for the first time since 2004, taking place at the Ayrton Senna circuit as the second race of the season. This event replaces the Argentina Grand Prix at Termas de Rio Hondo, marking Brazil’s significant re-entry into the MotoGP landscape and tapping into a large fan base.
Season Structure and Schedule Adjustments
The 2026 schedule retains the 22 rounds seen this year, aligning closely with the 2025 calendar but with some notable changes in dates. Key shifts include the Catalan, British, and Austrian Grands Prix, which have all been rescheduled to optimize the flow of the season. The campaign will once again begin in Thailand, following a successful event there this year, aiming to build on this momentum in 2026.
Effect of No Triple-Headers and a Longer Summer Break
One of the major changes for 2026 is the continued absence of triple-headers, a format that had been previously avoided due to concerns over rider and team fatigue. This decision is expected to be welcomed by the MotoGP community as it helps reduce pressure during the demanding season. In addition, the calendar includes a nearly month-long summer break between the German and British rounds, offering riders a substantial opportunity to rest and recover.
Well, the first is we’re happy with it,
said Carlos Ezpeleta, Dorna’s chief sporting officer, reflecting on the new calendar.
We think it’s one of the better calendars that we’ve done in the last years. And I hope that it’s one that the people from the MotoGP family will receive well.
And the biggest news is of course Brazil. It’s a big market for the sport and one where we feel we have a lot of potential. So, that will be the second race on the calendar, which is big news. We’ll start in Thailand again, which was hugely successful this year, even if they only had four months between events. So, we’re looking for even more success for 2026.
—Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer
But overall, a lot of positive changes for the calendar. No triple-headers next year again, and that is something that will be well received.
—Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer
I think one of the things we’ve spoken to the riders about, the triple-headers, also having a decent summer break,
Ezpeleta continued.
It’s not possible every year, but I think we’ve been able to accomplish that for 2026 and I think everybody will be able to have a good holiday in summer next year.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
The 2026 MotoGP calendar emphasizes a balanced approach by introducing Brazil back into the mix, adjusting event dates for better logistics, and ensuring riders have sufficient rest periods through the elimination of triple-headers and an extended summer break. These changes are poised to enhance the experience for competitors, teams, and fans alike as the sport continues to grow globally.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is MotoGP not so popular?
A. Unfortunately, entertainment is more popular than sports right now, and MotoGP wants to profit from this trend. However, MotoGP currently lacks the personalities needed to make it exciting.
Q. Has anyone won F1 and MotoGP?
A. John Surtees is well-known for being the sole World Champion in both motorcycle racing and Formula 1, showcasing his fearless talent in each sport.
Q. Who was banned from MotoGP?
A. The Aprilia MotoGP team called Andrea Iannone’s 18-month doping suspension “ridiculous.” They also said they would support his appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Q. Why is Kawasaki not allowed in MotoGP?
A. Kawasaki faced challenges in performance and high expenses, which led them to leave MotoGP at the end of 2008 during a worldwide economic downturn.
Currently, strict rules for new teams and a busy racing schedule also discourage the company from coming back to MotoGP.
