Thursday Highlights as the Championship Arrives at the Iconic French Circuit
From the sun-soaked asphalt of Jerez to the hallowed tarmac of Le Mans, MotoGP continues its European tour with Round 6 of the 2025 season: the Michelin® Grand Prix of France. The paddock has made its way north to the legendary Circuit Bugatti, and as always, the French fans are out in force, welcoming the championship with trademark enthusiasm.
A Championship Battle Heating Up
The spotlight heading into the weekend is firmly on Alex Márquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP), who arrives in France as the new championship leader—by just a single point. Fresh from securing his maiden MotoGP victory at the Spanish Grand Prix, Márquez carries serious momentum into Le Mans. Hot on his heels is his brother and six-time premier class World Champion, Marc Márquez (Ducati Lenovo Team), who will no doubt be aiming to strike back on a circuit where he’s tasted success before.
Alex was among the riders participating in Thursday’s pre-event Press Conference, joined by another key figure with plenty of home support this weekend—Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP). The Frenchman, crowned Rider of the Race at Jerez, will be determined to give his home crowd something to cheer about on Sunday.
Viñales and KTM Tech3 Eye French Glory
Also speaking to the press was Maverick Viñales, who enjoyed a strong performance last time out in Jerez and now heads into his team’s home round with high hopes. Riding for Red Bull KTM Tech3, Viñales has shown glimpses of top form this season and will look to keep the momentum rolling on familiar territory for the French outfit.
With KTM’s recent uptick in performance and the support of a home crowd, there’s a quiet confidence in the Tech3 garage that this could be a breakthrough weekend.
French Favorites Ready to Entertain
Fans of French riders will have plenty to cheer for. Johann Zarco (LCR Honda Castrol), another national favorite, was featured in Thursday’s “Gear Up” show, offering his insights ahead of what is always a highly charged and emotional homecoming. Zarco, a seasoned veteran and proven podium contender, always thrives off the home energy at Le Mans, and 2025 promises to be no different.
Joining Zarco in the spotlight was Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director Paolo Pavesio, who touched on the brand’s plans and progress this season. With Quartararo at the helm, Yamaha is hoping for a strong showing in front of their key European market and loyal fanbase.
All Eyes on Friday as Track Action Begins
With the talking done and anticipation building, all attention now shifts to the track as the action kicks off on Friday. Le Mans is notorious for its unpredictable conditions and high drama, and this year’s tightly contested championship only adds fuel to the fire.
The fans have already made their presence felt, filling the grandstands during media day and turning the paddock into a sea of flags, cheers, and tricolor passion. For riders like Quartararo and Zarco, there’s nothing quite like racing in front of your home crowd. As Quartararo himself said during the press conference, “It’s something super special.”
Official MotoGP Press Release
