The 2026 MotoGP season roars into life at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram this week, with anticipation at an all-time high among fans. The stakes are even greater for the riders, who are fighting not only for early championship momentum, but also for their futures on the grid ahead of next year’s sweeping regulation changes.
As we gear up for the high-speed thrilling action, live on SPOTV NOW, here are five fun facts every MotoGP fan needs to know ahead of Round 1.
1. Buriram kicks off the season again
For nearly two decades, the MotoGP season traditionally began in Qatar. Between 2007 and 2024, only one season opener took place outside the Middle Eastern nation. That changed in 2025 when Buriram claimed the honour, and Thailand once again hosts the curtain-raiser this year.
2. Dominant Marc at Chang International Circuit
When it comes to success at Buriram, Marc Marquez stands head and shoulders above the competition. The Spaniard has secured three MotoGP victories at the Chang International Circuit, more than any other rider on the current grid. His Buriram record puts it in elite company alongside other tracks where he’s excelled such as the Circuit of the Americas, MotorLand Aragon and Sachsenring.
3. New official all-time lap record incoming?
The 2026 Buriram Test delivered an early warning shot from Marco Bezzecchi. The Aprilia rider clocked a blistering 1:28.668, eclipsing the circuit’s official all-time lap record of 1:28.700, set by Francesco Bagnaia in 2024. Although testing laps do not count as official records, the pace suggests the benchmark could fall once racing begins this weekend.
4. Spanish conquest in 2025
The 2025 Thailand Grand Prix delivered one of the rare feats of the modern era as Spain completed a clean sweep across all three classes. Marc Marquez won in MotoGP, Manuel Gonzalez took victory in Moto2 and Jose Antonio Rueda triumphed in Moto3, making Buriram the latest circuit to witness a same-nationality domination.
5. Razgatlıoğlu set to make history
When the lights go out at the Chang International Circuit, Toprak Razgatlıoğlu will become the first Turkish rider to compete in the MotoGP premier class, marking a watershed moment for Turkish motorcycle racing. Adding to the excitement for Turkish fans, Deniz Öncü will also be in action in Moto2 to ensure more national representation on the world stage.
