Thailand to Host MotoGP™ Season Opener in 2025 and 2026
MotoGP™ is thrilled to announce that the Thai Grand Prix at Chang International Circuit in Buriram will kick off the 2025 and 2026 seasons. This marks the first time in over 25 years that the MotoGP™ season will begin in Southeast Asia, with provisional dates set for February 28th to March 2nd, 2025.
Thailand is a crucial market for MotoGP™, its manufacturers, and partners, boasting a dedicated fanbase and millions of motorcycles on its roads. Since the inaugural Thai GP in 2018, the event has attracted over 800,000 fans across four races. Now, Thai fans will have the unique opportunity to witness the season opener in their home country for the first time.
Dr. Gongsak Yodmani, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand, expressed excitement over the opportunity:
“We recognize the tremendous benefits of hosting the season opener. It’s a significant opportunity to use this world-class sporting event to boost the economy and generate substantial revenue, in line with our Sport Tourism policy. The 2025 season will be particularly thrilling due to the major rider movements between teams, captivating fans worldwide as they eagerly await the debut of new team dynamics at Chang International Circuit. Following nearly four months of off-season, this will be the first race to showcase the new team line-ups. Dorna Sports, the event organizer, also plans to extensively promote the season opener globally, enhancing the visibility of the Thai round and establishing it as a must-visit destination for MotoGP™ enthusiasts.”
He added, “On behalf of the Sports Authority of Thailand, I extend our sincere gratitude to Dorna Sports and assure them that Thailand is fully prepared to host the opening rounds of the 2025 and 2026 seasons.”
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports, commented:
“We are thrilled to announce that the 2025 and 2026 season openers will take place at the Thai Grand Prix in Buriram. Southeast Asia is one of our most significant markets, both for the sport and our factories and partners. Thailand is a key player in this region, and the passion of the fans is evident in the large crowds we see at Buriram every year. We are confident they will create an incredible atmosphere for the first event of the season.
“Buriram became an instant favorite as soon as it joined the calendar. The circuit’s layout is perfect for showcasing our close racing, as proven by the thrilling show we witnessed there last season. We look forward to returning later this year and making history with the 2025 season opener.”
Please note that these dates are provisional until confirmed. The full, provisional 2025 FIM MotoGP™ calendar will be published by the FIM later in the 2024 season.
Official MotoGP Press Release
