MotoGP 2026: Schedule, riders, changes, calendar, how to watch and live stream in the UK
By Marko Tankosic
SME News Balkan. Defending champion Marc Marquez begins his title defence in Thailand on March 1, aiming to secure an eighth premier-class crown and edge closer to the all-time greats.
Here’s everything you need to know about MotoGP 2026 — including the full calendar, rider line-up, major rule changes and how to watch.
When Does the 2026 MotoGP Season Start?
The campaign begins at the Thai Grand Prix at the Chang International Circuit.
- Practice: February 27
- Qualifying & Sprint: February 28
- Race: March 1
The season concludes on November 22 at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia.
2026 MotoGP Calendar: Key Changes Explained
The 22-round calendar features several notable updates:
- Brazil returns for the first time in 22 years at the Autodromo Internacional Ayrton Senna.
- The Australian Grand Prix remains at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit for the final time before switching to Adelaide streets in 2027.
- Silverstone moves from May to August at Silverstone Circuit.
- The season again ends with back-to-back rounds in Portugal and Valencia.
Full 2026 MotoGP Schedule
- Thailand – Chang International Circuit (Feb 27–Mar 1)
- Brazil – Autodromo Internacional Ayrton Senna (Mar 20–22)
- USA – Circuit of the Americas (Mar 27–29)
- Qatar – Lusail International Circuit (Apr 10–12)
- Spain – Circuito de Jerez (Apr 24–26)
- France – Le Mans Circuit (May 8–10)
- Catalonia – Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya (May 15–17)
- Italy – Mugello Circuit (May 29–31)
- Hungary – Balaton Park Circuit (Jun 5)
- Czech Republic – Brno Circuit (Jun 19–21)
- Netherlands – TT Circuit Assen (Jun 26–28)
- Germany – Sachsenring (Jul 10–12)
- Great Britain – Silverstone Circuit (Aug 7–9)
- Aragon – MotorLand Aragon (Aug 28–30)
- San Marino – Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli (Sep 11–13)
- Austria – Red Bull Ring (Sep 18–20)
- Japan – Motegi Twin Ring (Oct 2–4)
- Indonesia – Mandalika International Street Circuit (Oct 9–11)
- Australia – Phillip Island (Oct 23–25)
- Malaysia – Sepang International Circuit (Oct 30–Nov 1)
- Portugal – Algarve International Circuit (Nov 13–15)
- Valencia – Circuit Ricardo Tormo (Nov 20–22)
Who Are the Main Title Contenders?
Marc Marquez Chasing History
Marc Marquez enters 2026 level with Valentino Rossi on seven premier-class titles. One more would move him closer to the legendary Giacomo Agostini’s all-time record.
Key Challengers
- Francesco Bagnaia – Ducati Lenovo teammate
- Jorge Martin – 2024 world champion
- Alex Marquez – Championship runner-up in 2025
- Fabio Quartararo – Yamaha contender
New Face on the Grid
Three-time WorldSBK champion Toprak Razgatlioglu joins MotoGP with Prima Pramac Yamaha, bringing aggressive riding style and huge anticipation.
Major Technical Changes Coming in 2027
While 2026 runs under the current regulations, the paddock is already preparing for major changes in 2027:
- Engine capacity reduction from 1000cc to 850cc
- Tyre supplier switch from Michelin to Pirelli
Several riders, including Marc and Alex Marquez, are out of contract at the end of 2026, adding extra intrigue to the championship battle.
How to Watch MotoGP 2026 in the UK
All 22 race weekends will be broadcast live on TNT Sports and streamed via discovery+ in the UK and Ireland.
Coverage team includes:
- Presenters: Suzi Perry, Rachel Stringer, Natalie Quirk
- Pundits: Neil Hodgson, Michael Laverty, Sylvain Guintoli
- Commentary: Gavin Emmett and Steve Day
Every session — practice, qualifying, sprint and race — will be available live and on-demand.
2026 MotoGP Season Preview: What to Expect
With Brazil back on the calendar, a historic title chase for Marc Marquez, and Toprak Razgatlioglu stepping into MotoGP, the 2026 season promises drama from the first lights-out in Thailand to the final showdown in Valencia.
The question now: Can Marquez make it eight, or will a new champion emerge?
