MotoGP Not Expanding Beyond 22-Race Calendar
Balancing Ambition and Well-being: MotoGP's Calendar Strategy
MotoGP's Calendar Stability: A New Era of Focus
Dorna Sports' Chief Sporting Officer, Carlos Ezpeleta, has articulated a clear vision for the future of MotoGP's racing schedule: no plans for expansion beyond the current 22 events. This declaration comes amidst a period of significant growth for the championship, which has seen an increase in international interest, particularly from Asian markets, leading to a more crowded schedule in recent years. The current 22-round format represents a substantial increase from the 19 races held pre-pandemic, nearing Formula 1's record of 24 Grands Prix.
The Impact of Sprint Races and Schedule Management
The introduction of sprint races in 2023 significantly intensified race weekends, effectively doubling the number of competitive events for riders and teams to 44 annually. To mitigate the increased demands and combat fatigue, organizers have made conscious efforts to streamline the calendar. Notably, triple-header events have been eliminated, and the forthcoming 2026 schedule has been thoughtfully structured to avoid prolonged sequences of back-to-back races, a move widely praised by participants for prioritizing their welfare.
Commitment to Supporting Junior Categories
Ezpeleta further emphasized that the Moto2 and Moto3 championships will retain their integral position alongside MotoGP at every event. This stance directly addresses prior speculation about potential changes under new ownership, such as Liberty Media. Unlike support series in other motor racing disciplines, Moto2 and Moto3 are recognized as world championships in their own right. Maintaining their presence at all MotoGP rounds is considered crucial for the teams involved, ensuring they continue to benefit from the main championship's global platform and resources. Ezpeleta affirmed that any decision to alter this arrangement would only be considered if teams themselves expressed a need for a reduced schedule, reiterating the organization's commitment to supporting their participation.
Future Calendar Adjustments and Regional Focus
The 2026 MotoGP calendar, revealed in July, continues to reflect a strategic approach to event locations. A notable change includes Brazil taking over from Argentina as the sole South American venue, indicating a dynamic yet considered adjustment to the championship's global footprint while adhering to the 22-race ceiling.