The 2025 MotoGP™ season is fast approaching a decisive stretch. Just two more European rounds remain before the paddock heads overseas, but before Misano takes its turn on the calendar, the spotlight is firmly fixed on a Spanish classic: the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. After the unique challenge of Balaton Park last time out, riders now return to familiar territory — a track steeped in history and renowned for producing close battles. The burning question for fans and rivals alike is whether anyone can finally put an end to Marc Márquez’s (Ducati Lenovo Team) remarkable unbeaten streak on home soil.
Thursday Talking Points and Paddock Headlines
HRC stability confirmed
Honda Racing Corporation brought clarity to their 2026 plans with the news that both Luca Marini and Johann Zarco will continue in factory colours for at least another year. The pair expressed relief at putting speculation to rest, noting that consistency is crucial as HRC works to climb back to the sharp end of the grid.
Miller’s new adventure
Jack Miller was another name in the headlines. The Australian rider has officially signed with Prima Pramac Yamaha, where he’ll line up alongside Toprak Razgatlioglu in 2026. Miller described the move as a fresh challenge and a chance to learn from one of the fiercest competitors on the grid.
Morbidelli commits to VR46
Franco Morbidelli, meanwhile, confirmed his future with VR46 Racing, extending his journey with the team into 2026. He admitted that negotiations were straightforward thanks to his close ties with the VR46 project, and he is eager to build momentum over the coming months.
Oliveira left searching
The news was less positive for Miguel Oliveira. The Portuguese rider faces uncertainty after losing his seat for 2026. While disappointed, Oliveira remained composed when asked about his next steps, stating that he still believes he has plenty to offer at the top level. His comments fuelled speculation that he may already be weighing up options outside the current MotoGP grid.
Press Conference Highlights
Barcelona’s pre-event press conference delivered another dose of intrigue and star power. Marc Márquez was joined by two fellow Spanish favourites: Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and reigning World Champion Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing). Martin arrives buoyed by a spectacular ride in Hungary, where he clawed his way from 16th on the grid to finish just shy of the podium in fourth place.
The trio fielded questions on everything from home-race pressure to title ambitions. Perhaps the most engaging moment came when Acosta gave his take on the theme of sporting comebacks, a topic inevitably linked to Márquez’s career. His sharp and thoughtful answer drew plenty of smiles — and applause — in the press room.
More Ways to Catch the Action
For fans who want the full story straight from the riders, Thursday’s GearUP show provided in-depth chats with Miller, Zarco, and Morbidelli. Each rider spoke candidly about their contract news and hopes for the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, the latest edition of This Week in MotoGP™ recaps all the key headlines leading into Barcelona, from transfer market twists to trackside updates.
Barcelona Awaits
With so many storylines converging — Márquez’s dominance, Acosta’s rise, Martin’s title defence, and a flurry of contract moves — the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is primed to deliver another weekend of drama. Track action begins on Friday, and fans won’t want to miss the Special Press Conference scheduled for 12:00 (UTC+2), where more news and insight are sure to follow.
Images Official MotoGP
