The world of motorcycle racing is buzzing as the 2025 MotoGP season gears up to kick off on March 1. This marks the 77th edition of the championship, promising thrilling races and fierce competition as riders take to the track to battle for supremacy.
This year, fans can expect excitement right out of the gate, as the MotoGP 2025 season opens at the Circuit Internacional de Chang in Thailand—a departure from the usual start at Lusail, Qatar. The first sprint race will air live on Disney+ at 5 AM (Brasília time), setting the stage for what could be one of the most exciting seasons yet.
Adding to the anticipation is the announcement of the new video game, MotoGP 25, set for release on April 30. Developed by Milestone, this game will encompass all riders and circuits from the 2025 season, including new additions such as the Brno circuit and Balaton Park, both exciting newcomers to the racing lineup. The use of Unreal Engine 5 promises to provide players with breathtaking graphics and realistic audio, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
MotoGP 25 will introduce innovative new features, including the "Training Sessions" mode, allowing players to hone their skills on original tracks across various disciplines such as Motard and Flat Track. This expands the traditional racing themes and introduces accessibility for new fans who may not be accustomed to the intricacies of MotoGP racing.
For competitive racers, the game will also extend cross-play functionality across multiple platforms, enabling racers on different systems to compete against one another. The return of the LiveGP Championship and ranked matches is expected to keep online competitors engaged, with local split-screen options available for couch racing with friends.
On the real-world side of MotoGP, significant team changes have unfolded, making for fresh rivalries and partnerships. Notably, Marc Márquez has switched to the factory Ducati team, partnered with Francesco Bagnaia, who is also considered one of the top contenders for the title after his impressive performances last season.
Meanwhile, 2024 champion Jorge Martín has signed with Aprilia and, unfortunately, will miss the first race as he recovers from surgery. With Martín out, questions loom about the early championship standings. Riders like Marco Bezzecchi, now with Aprilia, are eager to make their mark alongside veterans of the sport.
The new generation of riders includes exciting talents like Pedro Acosta of KTM, who debuted last year and made his presence known with five podium finishes. Also introducing Fermín Aldeguer and Ai Ogura, both making their first appearances this season, will be integral to shaping the future of the sport.
The MotoGP has seen dominance from Spanish riders over the past decade, with nine of 22 confirmed runners from Spain—nearly half the field. This sets the stage for intense competition, as veteran riders like Marc Márquez and proven champions like Jorge Martín pursue success once again.
With the calendar spanning from March to November, notable circuits will return, including the Czech Republic and the fresh venue at Balaton Park, Hungary. The calendar continues the tradition of thrilling racing events worldwide, capped with Brazil’s long-awaited return to the MotoGP, where they will host the Goiânia circuit after two decades without hosting races.
Financially, riders can expect generous compensation. Jorge Martín shared insights about potential earnings, stating, "Na MotoGP, a coisa gira em torno de € 600 mil ou € 700 mil (entre R$ 3,8 milhões e R$ 4,5 milhões)." While these figures can vary widely, past precedents show earnings can soar well past € 12 million for top talents like Jorge Lorenzo.
Forecasts for the upcoming season suggest intense battles predominantly among Pecco Bagnaia and Marc Márquez, who are considered favorites on their competitive machinery. Both riders possess the skills and the support structures necessary to excel, and with Martín absent for the first race, other riders will seek to capitalize on this unexpected opportunity.
For fans eager to catch the opening race, the GP da Tailândia offers not just excitement but also the chance to experience the incredible atmosphere and nail-biting finishes characteristic of MotoGP. Coverage kicks off on Disney+ on March 2, ensuring all fans can partake in the fast-paced action.
The 2025 season of MotoGP, coupled with the gaming experience of MotoGP 25, is shaping up to be nothing short of extraordinary, featuring exhilarating races, fierce rivalries, and incredible advancements for new and seasoned fans alike.