The 2026 MotoGP World Championship gets underway this weekend with the Thailand Grand Prix at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram. This season is shaping up to be one of the most defining in recent history as the sport prepares for major changes ahead.
End of the 1000cc Era
This year marks the final season of 1000cc machines, which have been used since 2012. Manufacturers will run homologated 2025 engines, meaning performance development is frozen and teams must focus on optimising what they already have rather than pursuing new innovations. This rule change will test both rider skill and engineering precision.
For teams like Ducati, this stability could be an advantage because their current bike is among the fastest. Others such as Yamaha and Honda face pressure to close the gap and extract performance from existing packages.
Marquez and the Title Defence
Defending world champion Marc Marquez begins the season with clear ambitions. After winning the 2025 title, marking his first premier class championship since 2019, the 33‑year‑old aims to secure a record‑equalling eighth MotoGP crown. Marquez suffered a collarbone injury last season but remains a central figure to watch in the opening round.
Riders Under Pressure
Marquez’s younger brother Alex Marquez enters 2026 as a strong contender after finishing second last season. His consistent form puts him among the favourites early in the campaign.
Source: Stadium Astro
Another key storyline is Jorge Martin. The 2024 champion struggled in 2025 due to crashes and injuries that limited his results. Now fully recovered with a clear opportunity to rebuild confidence, Martin could shift momentum if he finds early form.
Contract Moves and Rookie Interest
Off the track, the rider market is shaping up to be highly fluid. Several top riders are in the final year of their contracts, making every result crucial as teams prepare for bigger changes in 2027. Rumours include potential moves involving Francesco Bagnaia, Pedro Acosta, and Fabio Quartararo, though nothing is confirmed.
The grid also welcomes a high‑profile rookie in Toprak Razgatlioglu, a multiple World Superbike champion who joins Pramac Racing at age 29. His transition into MotoGP will be closely watched this season.
A Season of High Stakes
With a 22‑race calendar and the final year before major technical changes, the 2026 MotoGP season is expected to be full of intense competition and meaningful storylines. The Thailand Grand Prix not only opens the championship but sets the tone for what could be a dramatic year of racing.
