The 2026 Thai MotoGP at Buriram is set to run from 27 February to 1 March, featuring a weekend of intense racing and practice sessions. Fans can expect the event to showcase top riders competing on the same circuit where recent pre-season testing took place, with the 2026 Thai MotoGP schedule highlighting both local and UK start times for all sessions.
Key Developments from Recent Pre-Season Testing
In last weekend’s pre-season test at Buriram, Marco Bezzecchi led the leaderboard, closely followed by fellow Aprilia rider Ai Ogura. The reigning world champion Marc Marquez and Ducati’s Francesco Bagnaia secured third and fourth spots, while Alex Marquez of Gresini completed the top five. Notably, the results mirrored last year’s test outcomes at Buriram, where the top five matched the final standings of the 2025 MotoGP World Championship, with Marc Marquez, Alex Marquez, Bezzecchi, Acosta, and Bagnaia in order.
Despite strong testing results, riders face different challenges on race day. Marc Marquez triumphed with a double victory from pole position last year, overcoming an early tyre pressure issue. This year, however, Marc Marquez contended with health problems and experienced three crashes during testing, making this his first Grand Prix since recovering from shoulder injuries sustained at Mandalika last October.
Performance Insights and Team Standings
Ducati and Aprilia appear closely matched in Buriram, while Pedro Acosta continues to lead KTM’s efforts, placing sixth in testing. Honda, entering the MotoGP engine freeze after promoting a concession class this weekend, rounded out the top ten with Joan Mir. Yamaha and its riders faced a more challenging weekend, with Jack Miller posting the best M1 time in 16th place, trailing the leaders by about one second. The debut of the new V4 Yamaha presents an additional test for the team this weekend.
Weather Conditions and Their Possible Effects
Weather forecasts predict the possibility of rain during the event, which could impact track conditions and race strategies throughout the weekend.
Detailed 2026 Thai MotoGP Schedule and Session Times
The weekend begins on Friday, 27 February, with two free practice sessions scheduled. Saturday, 28 February includes final practice, qualifying rounds, and the Sprint race, while Sunday, 1 March will feature warm-up and the main Grand Prix event.
Friday 27 February: 10:45am local (03:45am UK) – MotoGP Free Practice 1, 1:00pm local (8:00am UK) – MotoGP Free Practice 2.
Saturday 28 February: 10:10am local (03:10am UK) – MotoGP Free Practice 3, 10:50am local (03:50am UK) – MotoGP Qualifying, 3:00pm local (8:00am UK) – MotoGP Sprint Race.
Sunday 1 March: 10:40am local (03:40am UK) – MotoGP Warm-up, 3:00pm local (7:00am UK) – MotoGP Grand Prix.
Options to Watch the 2026 Thai MotoGP Live
The official MotoGP Video Pass streaming service will cover all sessions live throughout the weekend. Season passes are available for €148.99 with Timing Pass included, or €139.99 without live data, while a monthly pass costs €29.99.
Viewing Alternatives for Fans in the UK
For spectators in the UK, TNT Sports will broadcast all Thai MotoGP sessions live. Access to TNT Sports is offered through Discovery+ at a subscription rate of £30.99 per month. Additionally, every Moto2 and Moto3 session will be available live on TNT Sports during the event. Fans who prefer following race updates in text form can rely on Crash.net, which provides live coverage of all MotoGP sessions except for the brief Sunday morning warm-up.
