2026 MOTOGP: All you need to know

football12 September 2026 13:00

MotoGP heads to the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli this weekend for the Marino and Rimini Riviera Grand Prix, Round 14 of the 2026 season.

With the championship entering its decisive phase, Misano could prove a pivotal battleground as title contenders Jorge Martin, Marc Marquez and Marco Bezzecchi continue an increasingly intense fight for the crown.

THE CHAMPIONSHIP BATTLE TIGHTENS

The biggest storyline arriving in Misano is the shrinking gap at the top of the standings.

Defending world champion Jorge Martin continues to lead the championship in his first season with Aprilia, but Marc Marquez has been steadily reducing the deficit through a strong mid-season run with Ducati.

Marco Bezzecchi remains firmly in contention, ensuring the title battle remains a genuine three-way affair.

With only a handful of rounds remaining after Misano, every point from both the Sprint and Grand Prix races will be crucial.

MARC MARQUEZ'S CHARGE CONTINUES

Few riders arrive with more momentum than Marc Marquez.

The Ducati star has dramatically reignited his championship challenge and is beginning to look like the title favourite heading into the final third of the season. His recent form has transformed what once appeared to be a comfortable Martin advantage into a tightly contested battle.

Misano has traditionally rewarded riders capable of managing tyre wear while maintaining relentless pace, strengths that have become hallmarks of Marquez's recent performances.

HOME PRESSURE FOR ITALY'S STARS

No venue generates more attention for Italian riders than Misano.

Located on the Adriatic coast and close to Valentino Rossi's famous VR46 Ranch, the circuit is considered one of the spiritual homes of Italian motorcycle racing. Riders such as Marco Bezzecchi, Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli will be backed by passionate home support throughout the weekend.

Bezzecchi, in particular, enters the weekend as both a championship contender and local favourite. A victory on home soil could significantly boost his title aspirations.

WHY MISANO MATTERS

The 4.2 km Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli is one of the most technical tracks on the calendar.

The circuit often produces close racing because bike performance gaps are reduced, allowing rider skill and setup work to play a bigger role.

APRILIA'S BIG OPPORTUNITY

Championship leader Jorge Martin and teammate Marco Bezzecchi arrive knowing Misano could be one of Aprilia's strongest chances to score heavily.

The Italian manufacturer has enjoyed a breakthrough season, with Martin adapting impressively since moving from Ducati. Racing on home soil adds extra motivation for the Noale-based outfit.

CALENDAR 2026 (all times CAT, GMT+2)

UP NEXT

San Marino GP (Misano), 13 Sept

Sunday, 13 September. SS Extra 2

Race: 1:55pm

---------------------------------------------

UPCOMING RACES

Austrian GP (Spielberg), 20 Sept
Japanese GP (Motegi), 4 Oct
Indonesian GP (Mandalika), 11 Oct
Australian GP (Phillip Island), 25 Oct
Malaysian GP (Sepang), 1 Nov
Portuguese GP (Portimão), 15 Nov
Valencia GP (Circuit Ricardo Tormo), 22 Nov

----------------------------------

COMPLETED RACES

1. THAILAND - 1 March