The 2025 MotoGP season officially kicks off this weekend with the Grand Prix of Thailand, held at the Chang International Circuit. This exciting event not only marks the beginning of the racing year but also introduces numerous changes and shifts among the teams and competitors within the sport.
The Thai GP is set against the backdrop of significant changes, particularly the absence of reigning World Champion Jorge Martín, who is sidelined due to an injury sustained last Monday. Martín's absence certainly reshapes the competitive environment, opening the door for other riders to step up and stake their claim for the championship.
All eyes will undoubtedly be on Marc Márquez, who now rides for Ducati, alongside Francesco Bagnaia. The duo is anticipated to dominate early qualifying sessions and races. Márquez’s transition has been one of the most closely watched narratives this season, especially after impressive pre-season testing where he showcased remarkable speed and control, raising expectations for his performance.
Meanwhile, Bagnaia, the current titleholder, is equally motivated to defend his crown. This internal competition within Ducati adds intrigue, as both riders will bring their capabilities to the track, each aiming for victory and superiority within the team.
The Chang International Circuit sets up as the perfect stage for this season opener, and both riders and fans must adapt to the region's extreme heat and humidity, which is known to challenge even the most seasoned competitors.
The schedule for the Grand Prix weekend is tightly packed, beginning with practice sessions on Friday. The following is the timing for the significant events:
- Friday, March 1:
- 03:00 - 03:35: Moto3 FP1
- 03:50 - 04:30: Moto2 FP1
- 04:45 - 05:30: MotoGP FP1
- Saturday, March 2:
- 02:40 - 03:10: Moto3 FP2
- 03:25 - 03:55: Moto2 FP2
- 04:10 - 04:40: MotoGP FP2
- 04:50 - 05:05: MotoGP Q1
- 05:15 - 05:30: MotoGP Q2
- 09:00: MotoGP Sprint Race (13 laps)
- 06:00: Moto3 Race (19 laps)
- 07:15: Moto2 Race (22 laps)
- 09:00: MotoGP Race (26 laps)
Fans eager to catch all the action from this thrilling opening event will have multiple viewing options. Comprehensive coverage will be available via DAZN, providing live streaming of both qualifying and the races. Movistar Plus channels DAZN 1 and DAZN 2 will also air the events, ensuring viewers won’t miss any of the adrenaline-fueled action.
The excitement surrounding the Thai GP is palpable, with many competitors, including local hero Somkiat Chantra, making their debut along with several other rookies, such as Fermín Aldeguer, who will be contending for visibility and points on their new teams this season.
Without Jorge Martín, other racers will also look to make their mark, positioning themselves for early points. Competitors such as Pedro Acosta, Franco Morbidelli, Marco Bezzecchi, Joan Mir, and Fabio Quartararo are not to be overlooked, each seeking to capitalize on the situation and seize valuable points from the onset of the championship.
The stakes are high as the dawn of the 2025 MotoGP season has arrived. The Grand Prix of Thailand is set to deliver exhilarating racing, fierce competition, and new beginnings for many riders, making it pivotal for their standings throughout the season.
Stay tuned as the engines roar to life this weekend and the competition sets the tone for what promises to be another unforgettable year of MotoGP racing.