MotoGP Announce Huge 2025 And 2026 Changes With Circuit Replacement

Saajan Jogia | Aug 21, 2024

Apr 14, 2024; Austin, TX, USA; Jorge Martin (89) of Spain and Prima Pramac Racing and Maverick Vinales (12) of Spain and Aprilia Racing rides during the MotoGP Grand Prix of The Americas at Circuit of The Americas. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Taking Qatar's spot to host MotoGP's season opener, Thailand will host the opening races for the 2025 and 2026 seasons of the MotoGP World Championship. The move comes amid the high popularity that the sport has enjoyed in Buriram since the first round of the Thai GP in 2018.

Since then, the four MotoGP events that were hosted in Thailand saw an attendance of more than 800,000 fans as tickets for race day were officially sold out at the Chang International Circuit. The reason behind Qatar giving up its prestigious season-opening slot is not known yet. However, Lusail, which is set to host the second and final pre-season test, is also expected to see a venue change to Buriram for logistical reasons.

While the full 2025 MotoGP calendar is yet to be published, the Thai GP's provisional dates range from the 28th of February to the 2nd of March, followed by the Indian Grand Prix. This is the first time in more than 25 years that MotoGP has begun a season in Southeast Asia. Speaking to MotoGP.com about the big announcement, Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports, said in a statement:

“We are very excited to reveal that the 2025 and 2026 season openers will be the Thai Grand Prix at Buriram. Southeast Asia is one of our most important markets, both for the sport and for our factories and partners. Thailand plays a leading role in that, and the passion is clear to see in the huge crowds we enjoy at Buriram year on year. We know they will create an incredible atmosphere for the first event of the season.

“As soon as Buriram joined the calendar, it became an instant favourite. It’s easy to understand why: it’s a fantastic place to enjoy MotoGP™, with a layout crafted to showcase the best of our close racing – very much proven by the incredible show we enjoyed at the track last season. We’re looking forward to coming back later this year and then to return in 2025 for a history-making season opener.”

Adding further, Dr. Gongsak Yodmani, Governor for Sports Authority of Thailand, said in a statement:

“We recognize the numerous benefits of being the season opener. This presents a significant opportunity to leverage a world-class sporting event to stimulate the economy and generate substantial revenue in line with the Sport Tourism policy. One of the factors that will make the 2025 season particularly exciting is the significant rider movement between teams.

"This will undoubtedly captivate MotoGP fans worldwide as they eagerly anticipate seeing top riders on their new bikes for the first time at Chang International Circuit. Following a nearly four-month off-season, this will be the inaugural race to showcase the new team dynamics. Moreover, Dorna Sports, as the event organizer, has plans to extensively promote the season opener to raise awareness among motorsport fans globally. This will enhance the visibility of the Thai round and establish it as a must-visit destination for MotoGP enthusiasts from around the world.

“On behalf of the Sports Authority of Thailand, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Dorna Sports and assure them that Thailand is fully prepared in all aspects to host the opening round of the 2025 and 2026 seasons.”