MotoGP to introduce two qualifying sessions every weekend

MotoGP is embarking on another major format change: every Grand Prix weekend will feature two qualifying sessions. A separate session for the sprint will join the one for the Grand Prix, following the Formula 1 model, with one major difference: MotoGP has a sprint race every weekend.

The change is part of a broader overhaul planned for 2027. The season is also set to bring new 850cc prototypes, changes to the teams and a calendar featuring a street circuit in Adelaide. The Grand Prix format will also be revised, extending the Formula 1 model used at short-format events to all 22 rounds of the new season.

The projected total for the year is 44 races and 44 qualifying sessions. Riders will have little time to adapt to this new era, as every factory has decided to change its line-ups.

Another adjustment concerns the time before the start: in MotoGP, riders will have 10 minutes before the race to complete warm-up laps. The format overhaul therefore affects qualifying, sprint races and preparation immediately before the main race.