Key storylines ahead of the new MotoGP season

In less than two weeks, the new MotoGP season gets underway with the Thailand Grand Prix. What can fans look forward to this year, and which storylines are worth following?

The Magic Eight

Marc Marquez from the factory Ducati team capped last season with his seventh premier-class title. In 2026, he has his sights set firmly on an eighth crown, a triumph that would see him draw level with record-holder Giacomo Agostini for most titles in the 500cc/MotoGP era.

Marquez spent the winter recovering from the shoulder injury he sustained at October’s Indonesian Grand Prix. Now fully focused on defending his title, he is aiming for nothing less than renewed dominance. Can he do it again, or will a new name be added to the MotoGP champions’ list?

Five World Champions on the Grid

Speaking of champions, just like last year there are five world title championsh on the starting grid. The factory Ducati lineup naturally features Marquez alongside two-time champion Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia (2022, 2023). Aprilia Racing’s Jorge Martín claimed the 2024 title, Fabio Quartararo remains Yamaha’s most recent champion from 2021 and Joan Mir of Honda HRC lifted the crown in 2020.

The King of Superbikes

The most high-profile newcomer this season is 29-year-old Toprak Razgatlıoglu. A three-time WorldSBK champion joins Pramac Yamaha in 2026 and becomes the first Turkish rider in MotoGP history. How will the 78-time Superbike race winner adapt to the premier-class environment? We’re about to find out.

Brazil Back on the Map

The second rookie in MotoGP this year is Brazil’s Diogo Moreira. The reigning Moto2 champion steps up with Pro Honda LCR, returning Brazil to the premier-class grid for the first time since 2007.

Moreira will also experience the thrill of racing at home. The Brazilian Grand Prix has been added as the second round of the 2026 season, marking the country’s return to the world championship calendar for the first time since 1992. The race will take place at the Ayrton Senna circuit, which last hosted motorcycle racing between 1987 and 1989.

Chasing a First Victory

Among the 22 riders on the grid, five are still searching for their maiden MotoGP win. In addition to newcomers Razgatlıoglu and Moreira, particular attention will be on KTM factory rider Pedro Acosta, Honda HRC’s Luca Marini, and 2024 Moto2 champion Ai Ogura from the Trackhouse team.

The End of an Era

The 2026 campaign will be the final season under the current technical regulations. From 2027, MotoGP machinery will undergo major changes: engine capacity will drop from 1000cc to 850cc, ride-height devices will be banned, minimum bike weight will be reduced by five kilograms, and aerodynamic regulations will be redefined. Enjoy this last year under the existing rules, and perhaps the final assault on lap records for some time to come.

Want to experience these stories firsthand? Then don’t miss the Czech Grand Prix in June and secure your tickets in advance.

Source: motogp.com