The Mobility Resort Motegi has swung open its gates, and the atmosphere is electric. The European chapter of the 2026 season is closed, and now seven Grands Prix across nine weeks stand between the contenders and the final chequered flag. Thursday’s Media Day brought together the championship protagonists, home favourites, and returning heroes — here’s everything that unfolded as the Land of the Rising Sun readies to take centre stage.
The Pre‑Event Press Conference: Three Stories, One Stage
The spotlight fell on three riders who will shape the weekend: championship leader Jorge Martin, Austrian GP winner Pedro Acosta, and home hero Ai Ogura. Each brought a different perspective to the table.
Jorge Martin — “It’s a Privilege to Fight With Marc”
Martin arrives in Japan holding a 12‑point advantage over Marc Marquez, and he spoke with pride about being in the thick of the title fight alongside the seven‑time champion. He acknowledged the challenge ahead — and the strength of the rival behind him — while reflecting on how far he has come since last year’s difficult visit to Motegi, where a crash and injury derailed his weekend. Now, as the man at the top, he is determined to protect his lead as the flyaway tour gets underway.
Pedro Acosta — Riding the Momentum
Fresh from his maiden victory at the Red Bull Ring, Acosta heads to Motegi full of confidence. He was close to winning here during his rookie season and knows the circuit well. With five consecutive top‑five finishes and three podiums in his pocket, the young Spaniard is eyeing another strong result — and he is clear that he has nothing to lose in the title race, only positions to gain. He described his mindset as free, focused, and ready to attack.
Ai Ogura — “Expectations Are Really High”
For Ogura, this is more than just another race. It is his home Grand Prix, and the weight of expectation is palpable. He returned from injury to score two fourth‑place finishes in Austria, proving his pace is back where it belongs. Having missed last year’s Sunday race, he is eager to make amends in front of family, friends, and thousands of fans. He admitted the pressure is real, but he also described it as a source of motivation — a chance to deliver something special on home soil.
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Marc Marquez — The Battle Extends Beyond Two Riders
Twelve points adrift of Martin, Marquez returned to the scene of his 2025 title triumph and made it clear the fight is wider than just two names. He pointed out that four riders and three manufacturers are in contention, and every lap matters. He remains fully focused on closing the gap, knowing that a strong weekend here could swing the momentum right back his way.
Marco Bezzecchi — Chasing From the Outside
Forty‑two points off the lead, Bezzecchi is looking at the title picture from a different angle. He has asked whether chasing rather than leading might actually lift some of the pressure — and whether that freedom could help him deliver the kind of results that characterised his charge through last season’s flyaways. He is still very much in the race, and he knows consistent strong finishes are the only way to stay there.
Maverick Viñales — “I Haven’t Given Up Yet”
One of the most heartwarming stories of Media Day was the return of Maverick Viñales. After a lengthy spell on the sidelines recovering from injury, he is back in the saddle with Red Bull KTM Tech3. He spoke openly about the difficult rehabilitation process and set one clear, modest target for himself: finish the race. He described his determination as absolute — and confirmed he has not given up on finding his best form.
About the Track — Motegi’s History
The Mobility Resort Motegi joined the calendar in 1999 and has hosted the Japanese Grand Prix every year since, aside from the 2020 and 2021 cancellations due to the pandemic. This will be the 26th time the series has visited the circuit. Between 2000 and 2003, the event ran as the Pacific Grand Prix; since 2004, it has carried the Japanese GP name.
Last season provided unforgettable drama: Francesco Bagnaia completed a Sprint and Race double, while Marc Marquez secured his seventh world title with second place in the main race — a triumph that capped one of the greatest comebacks in sporting history. The podium also featured Pedro Acosta in third on Saturday and Joan Mir in third on Sunday, scoring a home rostrum for Honda.
Fan Events, News & Updates
Tokyo Fan Fest Kicks Off the Weekend
The excitement spilled beyond the circuit on Wednesday, with a massive turnout at Akihabara in central Tokyo for the official pre‑event Fan Fest. Ai Ogura, Francesco Bagnaia, Fabio Quartararo, and a host of other stars met supporters, took to the stage, and showcased MotoGP machinery in the heart of the city. Thousands lined the streets to be part of the build‑up, underscoring just how huge the sport is in Japan.
New Rider Parade Format
The traditional pre‑race rider parade is getting a fresh look this year. Instead of the usual procession, the stars will take part in a karting challenge — completing a sighting lap before racing flat out around a purpose‑built circuit. It promises fun, rivalry, and plenty of personality on show.
Honda Special Livery
Honda HRC Castrol will run a striking special design this weekend, drawing inspiration from the legendary RC131 as a tribute to the brand’s racing heritage. The livery was unveiled on the main straight by HRC President Koji Watanabe on Thursday morning.
Off‑Track News Round‑Up
- 2027 Calendar Confirmed: 22 Grands Prix across five continents, with new venues in Argentina and Adelaide joining the schedule.
- Mugello Extended: The Italian temple of speed will remain on the calendar through 2031 under a new five‑year agreement.
- Portugal Secured: Portimão stays until 2029, guaranteeing three more seasons of thrilling racing at the Algarve circuit.
- Moto3 Title Nearer: Maximo Quiles holds a 131‑point lead and can seal the crown this weekend if he extends it to 150 points or more.
- Rule Changes Confirmed: From 2027, practice starts from the pitlane exit will be banned at all circuits, alongside adjustments to Moto2 concessions.
- Sustainability in Focus: The KiSS Motegi programme returns with expanded green initiatives across the weekend.
Ready to Race
Free Practice gets underway tomorrow morning, and the stakes could not be higher. With 12 points splitting the top two, a resurgent Acosta closing in, and a home hero ready to shine, Motegi is set to deliver another classic chapter. Don’t miss a moment.
