MotoGP locks in Thailand as season opener for next two years

MotoGP will host its season-opening race at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, for the next two years.

Confirmed:

• MotoGP season to begin in Southeast Asia for the first time in more than 25 years
• Thailand to kick off the 2025 calendar from 28th February to 2nd March

Context:

With the Qatar Grand Prix pushed back from its usual season-opening slot due to religious holidays, many expected the Indian Grand Prix to be the new curtain raiser for MotoGP from next year. The race at Buddh International Circuit was slated for a March 2025 date, but sources told BlackBook Motorsport that next season would start elsewhere.

That has now come to fruition, with the 2025 season getting underway one weekend earlier than this year. Thailand is a key market for MotoGP, with more than 800,000 fans having poured through the gates in Buriram to watch the racing action over the four events that have taken place in the country.

Comment:

Carmelo Ezpeleta, chief executive of MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports, said: “We are very excited to reveal that the 2025 and 2026 season openers will be the Thai Grand Prix at Buriram. Southeast Asia is one of our most important markets, both for the sport and for our factories and partners.

“Thailand plays a leading role in that, and the passion is clear to see in the huge crowds we enjoy at Buriram year on year. We know they will create an incredible atmosphere for the first event of the season.

“As soon as Buriram joined the calendar, it became an instant favourite. It’s easy to understand why: it’s a fantastic place to enjoy MotoGP, with a layout crafted to showcase the best of our close racing – very much proven by the incredible show we enjoyed at the track last season. We’re looking forward to coming back later this year and then to return in 2025 for a history-making season opener.”

Coming next:

MotoGP next travels to MotorLand Aragón – the third out of four races in Spain – for its 12th round of the season from 30th August to 1st September.

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