The MotoGP circus has crisscrossed Europe through spring and summer — and now, with just two more European stops before the flyaway races begin, the championship arrives at one of its most beloved venues. The Red Bull Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera marks Round 14 of the 2026 season, and it comes with a headline act that could hardly be more compelling: the top three riders in the championship separated by barely 24 points. It is, quite literally, a three-way shootout — and all the pieces are in place for a classic Misano showdown.
Press Conference: The Big Three Face the Media
The traditional pre-event press conference brought together the championship’s leading trio — Jorge Martin, Marc Marquez, and Marco Bezzecchi — and the atmosphere spoke volumes. Just 24 points cover the trio as they prepare to do battle on the Adriatic coast, with Martin holding the slender advantage as championship leader.
Marc Marquez: “Focus on the Race, Not the Arm”
Marc Marquez used his media appearance to draw a line under the ongoing discussion regarding his physical condition. The Ducati Lenovo star has been managing a right arm injury throughout the season, but he insisted the conversation must now shift away from his health and back to the racing.
“I want everyone to stop talking about the arm. It is what it is — I’m managing it, I’m working hard, and I’m here to race. From now on, the focus needs to be on the championship fight, not my body. We have a fantastic battle on our hands, and that is what deserves all the attention.”
Marco Bezzecchi: Home Pride and F1 Inspiration
For Marco Bezzecchi, Misano is more than just a race — it is a homecoming. The Aprilia Racing star arrives refreshed and energised, having spent part of the summer break attending the Formula One Italian Grand Prix at Monza. He spoke enthusiastically about watching young Italian star Kimi Antonelli shine on home soil, and admitted the experience had given him extra motivation ahead of his own home race.
“To see an Italian boy with that talent doing so well at Monza… it makes you proud. It inspires you too. I’ve been watching him, learning, and now it’s my turn. This is my home race, my track, my people. I want to give them something to cheer about.”
Jorge Martin: Respect for the Rivals
Championship leader Jorge Martin acknowledged the strength of his two closest pursuers, admitting that both Marquez and Bezzecchi possess the pace and experience to take the title fight all the way to Valencia. The Aprilia Racing rider insisted, however, that he remains focused on his own performance rather than watching the competition.
“We have three incredible riders separated by just 24 points. That tells you everything you need to know about how close this is. Marc has won here many times, Marco is racing at home — both are very dangerous. But I will concentrate on what I can control. If I ride my race and stay consistent, we have a chance.”
Misano: A Circuit Steeped in History
This weekend marks the 33rd time Misano has hosted a motorcycle Grand Prix. The first race was held back in 1980, run over 40 laps of a 3.488km anticlockwise layout and won by the legendary Kenny Roberts. The venue welcomed ten Grands Prix between 1980 and 1993 before entering a 13-year hiatus. When MotoGP returned in 2007, the circuit had been substantially remodelled — extended to 4.18km and reversed to run clockwise, the configuration we know today.
Last Year’s Rematch — A Classic in the Making?
Those who were here 12 months ago will remember one of the most thrilling Misano contests in recent memory. The duel between Marc Marquez and Marco Bezzecchi dominated the weekend. On Saturday, Bezzecchi claimed Sprint victory as Marquez crashed out, with Alex Marquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio completing the podium. On Sunday, Marquez returned with a vengeance — winning the Grand Prix, with Bezzecchi second and Alex Marquez third. Could 2026 deliver another chapter in this rapidly growing rivalry?
News, Notes and Announcements
Alex Rins Announces Retirement
One of the biggest headlines from Media Day came from Alex Rins, who confirmed to the Misano media that 2027 will be his final season as a professional motorcycle racer. The Monster Energy Yamaha rider will call time on a distinguished career at the end of next year, bringing to a close a journey that has included race wins and podium finishes across every class.
Ai Ogura Sidelined Once More
The bad news continues for Ai Ogura. The SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP rider sustained a hand injury in training ahead of the Aragon Grand Prix and will once again miss out at Misano. His target for a return is now the next round at the Red Bull Ring in Austria.
Nicolo Bulega Confirmed for MotoGP 2027
Ahead of his likely WorldSBK title coronation at Cremona, Nicolo Bulega has been officially confirmed as a Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team rider for 2027. The Italian will partner Fermin Aldeguer in the famous fluo yellow colours, marking one of the most eagerly anticipated promotions in recent years.
Capirossi to Become MotoGP Legend
Ducati legend and three-time World Champion Loris Capirossi will be officially inducted as a MotoGP Legend during a special ceremony at Misano on Saturday. The Italian icon, synonymous with both Ducati and the Misano circuit, will be honoured at 12:00 in the Press Conference room — with the ceremony broadcast live to fans worldwide.
2027 Pre-Season Calendar Revealed
MotoGP has confirmed its pre-season testing schedule for the historic 2027 campaign. The season will open with the traditional Shakedown test, followed by official sessions at Sepang and Buriram, before the whole paddock travels to Rio de Janeiro for the 2027 Season Launch — marking a new chapter in the championship’s global story.
Adelaide City Circuit Unveiled
The future Australian Grand Prix venue has been officially unveiled by South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas. The brand-new city-centre layout will make Adelaide the first urban street circuit on the MotoGP calendar from 2027 onwards — a spectacular addition to the championship’s growing portfolio.
Off-Track Action: Misano Comes Alive
MotoGP and the Misano World Circuit have laid on a packed programme of events away from the track this weekend:
- MotoGP x FIBA 3×3 Basketball: On Wednesday evening, Marco Bezzecchi, Francesco Bagnaia and Franco Morbidelli headed to Piazzale Kennedy in Rimini for a unique exhibition match alongside professional players and content creators. Free entry allowed fans to get up close and personal with their heroes.
- Gresini Special Livery: BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP will celebrate 30 seasons in the sport this weekend with a special commemorative livery unveiled on home soil.
- KTM Orange Parade: More than 600 participants joined the annual Red Bull KTM fan parade around Misano on Friday evening — the biggest turnout in the event’s history.
- TogetHER Initiative: A new project celebrating women professionals in motorsport launched on Thursday, bringing together female students, industry leaders and racers to showcase career opportunities beyond the track.
- Red Bull Rookies Cup: The next generation of talent returns to action this weekend, with Race Two on Sunday offering a potential title-deciding twist in the junior series.
Streaming and Partnership News
MotoGP Group has announced a major partnership with Accenture to develop a next-generation direct-to-fan streaming platform, due to launch with the 2027 season. The technology will deliver richer content, enhanced interactivity, and new ways for fans worldwide to engage with the sport. Meanwhile, Kayo Sports has secured a multi-year extension to remain the exclusive home of MotoGP in Australia.
Ready for Takeoff
Everything is set. The stage is Misano, the backdrop is the Adriatic Sea, and the stakes could scarcely be higher. Three riders separated by 24 points, two home heroes, one returning champion, and a circuit that always delivers drama. The flags are about to drop — and this one could be the race of the season.
