Moto2 and Moto3 qualifying sessions have been postponed due to track surface issues caused by heavy rain in Goiânia.
© , Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
MotoGP: Di Giannantonio On pole Position In Brazil
Fabio Di Giannantonio claimed pole position during MotoGP qualifying Saturday at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Riding his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP26 on the dry 2.38-mile (3.84 km) track, the Italian turned a 1:17.410. Not only was that good enough to top the 22-rider field, it was also his first pole since 2022.
Marco Bezzecchi was the best of the rest with a 1:17.480 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26, and Marc Marquez claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 1:17.491 on his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26.
Row-two qualifiers included Monster Energy Yamaha’s Fabio Quartararo (1:17.561), Bezzecchi’s teammate, Jorge Martin (1:17.630) and Trackhouse Aprilia’s Ai Ogura (1:17.702).
QP MOTOGP
More from a press release issued by MotoGP:
Di Giannantonio heads Bezzecchi after dramatic first qualifying in Brazil. The Q1 graduates steal the show, Marc Marquez takes third and Quartararo makes some magic to head Row 2.
Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) came out on top in a dramatic Q2 in Brazil, moving through from Q1 to head the grid despite a crash on a lap that would have put him even quicker. His 1:17.410 sees him secure pole ahead of fellow Q1 graduate Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing), with Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) forced to settle for third after a crash on his first run. He was far from the only one.
A word up top for the rider in fourth too – with Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) putting in a stunner to qualify fourth and head Row 2 in the new V4-powered YZR-M1’s second full-time Grand Prix.
Q1: Bezzecchi on a mission, Diggia on the chase
There was early drama for Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) as he crashed out in the first minutes – rider perfectly ok – following a crash in FP2 for the Italian too, clearly searching for the limit at a new venue. Bezzecchi was another who crashed in FP2 – compounding the pressure of being in Q1 – but the Italian was top of the timesheets from early doors.
He suffered a runoff later in Q1 but rejoined, and his place at the top of the session remained unthreatened – in fact, his Q1 lap remains the fastest of the day. Di Giannantonio joined him in the pole shootout in Q2, finding some impressive speed on Saturday and about to find even more.
Q2: Drama and magic in equal measure
Drama hit early again in Q2. First for Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) as the Italian slid out at Turn 9, rider ok, and then for Championship leader Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) soon after. Acosta was electric on his feet sprinting for the service road, luckily finding KTM stablemate Mika Kallio ready and waiting on a scooter to taxi him back to the paddock.
Next, about 30 seconds later Marc Marquez was on the floor – in exactly the same place. The race back to the box was on, as Diggia led the way on the timing screens from Marc Marquez by 0.071, Acosta hovered in P7 and Bagnaia remained the only rider with no time set after binning it before putting one in.
The #63 was first back out though and soon rectified that to at least slot into P9. Bezzechi then threatened the front row and took over in second, 0.060 off Diggia, with Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) slotting into fourth after a few red sectors and then seeing the lap fade slightly.
Meanwhile, Diggia improved at the top by 0.010, and then more drama – this time fo Martin. Red sectors this time saw the #89 crash out with no time to get back into the session, although rider perfectly ok.
The next red sector stunner to end in the gravel came from Diggia as an advantage of over a tenth – on his own time – went beginning as he slid out. The yellow flags got in the way for a few riders as the clock ticked down too, leaving only a few laps left to come in.
One of those coming in was from Quartararo. The #20 was up in the first sector, up in the second, and only 0.040 off in the third. Crossing the line it wasn’t quite pole, but it was just 0.151 off it as he slotted into fourth with a near-supernatural performance on Saturday morning.
Pole position, after his awesome charge up from Q1, stayed with Diggia. The #49 heads Bezzecchi by 0.070 with Marc Marquez – who couldn’t make up time as he headed back out – just 0.011 behind him to complete the front row for MotoGP’s return to Brazil. The Q1 graduates head the grid and Bezzecchi’s Q1 laptime is actually the fastest lap of qualifying – but Diggia’s pole is only 0.002 off it.
THE GRID
Behind Diggia, Bezzecchi and Marc Marquez, Quartararo heads that second row, only 0.070 off the #93 ahead of him and 0.069 ahead of Martin, who didn’t lose out on any more positions after his crash barring Quartararo’s leapfrog. Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) takes P6 to complete that second row.
Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) returns from injury with a P7 qualifying position, just ahead of Alex Marquez in eighth. Acosta will be ruing his crash as he lines up on the third row in P9, looking to make big progress from lights out to defend that championship lead.
Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) takes P10, with Bagnaia unable to make much headway up from a 1:18.122 – putting him P11 on the grid. Toprak Razgatlioglu will line up P12 after moving directly through thanks to his stunning exploits with Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP on Friday, and the Turkish rookie is only 0.300 off Bagnaia ahead of him.
The stage is set for a stunning first Tissot Sprint in Brazil, with Acosta looking to move up, Bezzecchi and Marc Marquez right alongside each other… and Diggia on pole looking to prove his own point. Find full qualifying results HERE and tune in from 15:00 local time (UTC -3)!
MotoGP: Ogura Is Best In Saturday Practice At Goiânia
Ai Ogura led MotoGP World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Saturday morning at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Riding his Aprilia Trackhouse RS-GP26 on spec Michelin tires, Ogura turned a lap time of 1:18.237 to lead the 22-rider field.
Marc Marquez was the best of the rest with a 1:18.248 on his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26.
Jorge Martin was third at 1:18.405 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26.
Marquez’s teammate, Francesco Bagnaia finished the session fourth with a 1:18.518.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Pedro Acosta got fifth with a lap time of 1:18.616.
fp2 motogp
Moto2: Guevara Tops Final Practice In Brazil
Izan Guevara was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Saturday morning at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Riding his Pirelli-shod Blu Cru Pramac Yamaha Boscoscuro on the 2.38-mile (3.84 km) track, the Spaniard recorded a 1:21.256 to lead the field of 28 riders.
Manuel Gonzalez was the best of the rest with a 1:21.494 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex.
Mario Aji was third-fastest with a 1:21.690 on his Idemitsu Honda Team Asia Kalex.
American Joe Roberts finished Saturday morning’s practice session 20th with a best time of 1:22.353 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
moto2 fp2
Moto3: Almansa Heads Saturday Practice At Goiânia
David Almansa led Moto3 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Saturday morning, at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Almansa used his Pirelli-shod Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP KTM to lap the 2.38-mile (3.84 km) track in 1:27.308 to lead the field of 25 riders.
Joel Kelso was second-best with a time of 1:27.365 on his GRYD – MLav Racing Honda.
Valentin Perrone, piloting his Red Bull KTM Tech3 machine, claimed the third and final spot on the front with a lap time of 1:27.466.
fp2 moto3
Moto4 Latin Cup: Matsudaira & Salem Fastest in FP1 & FP2
American Kensei Matsudaira had a strong start at Goiânia in the Moto4 Latin Cup, setting the fastest time in Free Practice 1 with a 1:39.782.
In Free Practice 2, Mahdi Salem went quickest with a 1:44.098 after doing a 1:41.381 in FP1. Matsudaira stayed near the front in FP2 with a 1:44.498, finishing third, as both riders showed good pace on the opening day in Brazil.
The Aprilia RS 660 & RS 457 Are Italy’s Best-Selling Sport Bikes
The two small- and medium-displacement sports motorcycles are the country’s most popular models, with over 21% of the market share.
These new sports bikes have also proved extremely popular in the USA—a market in which Aprilia has seen 12% growth over the past year—as well as in Europe, where the RS 660 is one of the best-selling sports bikes overall, driven in part by Aprilia’s MotoGP success.
The RS range represents the very best of the modern road sports bike category, created by Aprilia itself, thanks to its lightweight, high-performance bikes that are both appealing and affordable, delivering plenty of fun on the road as well as superb performance on the track.
The Aprilia RS 660 continues to enjoy remarkable success in the fairing sports bike market; in 2025, it was once again the best-selling model in Italy, closely followed by the Aprilia RS 457 in second place. The success of the RS 660 and RS 457 is the result of Aprilia’s genius intuition; the company was the first to take an innovative, modern approach to sporty bikes, creating a new generation of lightweight, high-performance motorcycles equipped with top-of-the-range technical and electronic features, accessible to all and fun to ride on a daily basis for those new to motorbikes, yet more than capable of delivering excitement on the track and in the hands of more experienced riders.
The Aprilia RS 660 is the godfather of the new generation of road-going sports bikes, referred to simply as ‘SportBikes’, and has been conceived to rekindle the joy of riding with clip-on handlebars on the road, whilst remaining rapid and effective on the track too. This is demonstrated by the results achieved in all the championships in which the Aprilia RS 660 has competed, including the Twin Cup classes in MotoAmerica and the SportBike class in the British Superbike championship, where it has always taken the top spots. In 2026, the SportBike class will also make its début in the World Superbike Championship, with four RS 660 motorcycles set to line up on the grid, promising to make their presence felt from the off.
The incredible lap time of 1’45”129 set by Marco Bezzecchi in the Race of Stars, a competition held between the best Aprilia riders of all time during the Aprilia All Stars festival at the Misano circuit, was achieved on a standard RS 660 Factory bike, in line with the FMI regulations – a result that serves as the cherry on the cake for this extraordinary model.
In 2025, Aprilia was the leading European brand in terms of sales of fairing sports bikes in Europe, with 13% of the market share; this is thanks in part to the brand’s comprehensive range, spanning from the RS 125 (Aprilia’s entry-level sports bike) to the queen of superbikes, “Her Majesty” the RSV4; indeed, Aprilia alone sold more sports bikes than its two main European competitors combined. The RS 660 is one of the top-selling sports bikes in Europe, while the RS 457 has also recorded excellent sales figures, meeting the mobility, style and taste requirements of young motorcycle riders.
In the United States, the sports bike segment was the only area that saw growth in 2025, and is now the second largest after the motocross segment. Aprilia is fifth when it comes to sales of sports bikes (and is the leading European manufacturer), as well as being the brand that saw the most growth in 2025 (+30% over 2024).
The growing success of Aprilia in terms of global sports bikes sales reflects the company’s traditional and globally-recognised status as a manufacturer of the highest-quality motorcycle chassis, and this goes hand in hand with its success in the MotoGP. The 2025 season was Aprilia’s best ever in the premier class of the World Championship, with Marco Bezzecchi finishing third in the Riders’ ranking; meanwhile, the team took home second place in the Constructors’ standings, thanks to three wins in the long races, three in the sprints, 15 podium finishes and five pole positions.
- Aprilia RS 457
With the RS 457, Aprilia enters a segment with a focus on the future, both in terms of the next generation and new markets; this bike has been conceived to meet the growing demand for motorcycles that are easy to handle yet fun, boasting cutting-edge technology and design.
The Aprilia RS 457 is the fruit of a completely new design, with key strengths include its lightness (it has the best possible power-to-weight ratio for a bike that can be ridden on an A2 licence), its ease of handling and its technological equipment. The RS 457 is designed to support riders as they grow and develop, both on the road and on the track.
It is powered by an all-new liquid-cooled, front-mounted twin-cylinder engine with dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder, which delivers 35 kW of power, the maximum permitted for a motorcycle that can be ridden on an A2 licence. In addition to its power, the bike also boasts a dry weight of just 159 kg (175 kg when fully fuelled), lending it a power-to-weight ratio that is simply unbeatable. The aluminium frame (which also incorporates the engine) and the adjustable suspension create a chassis that is a benchmark within the sector. In line with true Aprilia tradition, the standard electronic equipment offered with this model is extremely comprehensive: Ride-by-Wire throttle, three Riding Modes, ABS and adjustable traction control, which can also be deactivated. Accessories include the electronic quick-shift gearbox.
Aprilia RS 457 is also available in the GP Replica version, a tribute to the RS-GP used to compete in MotoGP.
- Aprilia RS 660
The godfather of the new generation of sports road bikes, this model ushers in a whole new concept of sportiness: premium technical features and superb performance that is never excessive, enabling riders to rediscover the pleasure of dynamic riding on the road – a sports bike suitable for all motorcyclists, which requires no particular experience or skill. The innovative concept behind the design lies in the RS 660’s optimal power-to-weight ratio, which makes for a fun, joyful riding experience, whether during everyday use or in more sporty contexts: 169 kg and 105 hp – the perfect formula for fun on the road.
From a technical perspective, the RS 660 is truly unique within its genre: an aluminium frame and swingarm, coupled with a high-performance parallel-twin engine makes it accessible to all. The electronic equipment is top of the range, with Ride-by-Wire throttle control and a six-axis inertial platform to enable the APRC electronic assistance package to function optimally.
There are five Riding Modes designed to adjust the behaviour of the electronic controls to maximise safety and enjoyment during everyday trips, dynamic road riding and riding on the track.
The Aprilia RS 660 also stands out for its particularly advanced aerodynamics, featuring a twin fairing that acts as an aerodynamic appendage to optimise the stability of the bike at high speeds, whilst providing the rider and passenger with maximum protection from the air pressure.
Also available in a Factory version, which, in true Aprilia tradition, features a more comprehensive and refined standard set-up.
MotoGP: Zarco Fastest, Toprak Third Friday In Brazil
Johann Zarco led MotoGP World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Riding his Castrol Honda LCR RC213V on spec Michelin tires, the Frenchman turned a lap time of 1:21.257 to lead the 22-rider field.
Marc Marquez was the best of the rest with a 1:21.382 on his Lenovo Ducati Desmosedici GP26.
Toprak Razgatlioglu was third at 1:21.565 on his Prima Pramac Yamaha YZR-M1.
Jorge Martin finished the session fourth with a 1:21.566 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Pedro Acosta got fifth with a lap time of 1:21.750.
motogp practice
More from a press release issued by MotoGP:
Zarco fastest from Marc Marquez in Brazil, Razgatlioglu into Q2. Rain plays a big role in MotoGP Practice at the Brazilian GP with the Turkish rookie impressing on the opening day back in Goiania.
Castrol Honda LCR’s Johann Zarco fronts the MotoGP pack after a mixed conditions Day 1 plays out at the Estrella Galicia 0,0 Grand Prix of Brazil, in a rain-affected afternoon stint that saw Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Toprak Razgatlioglu (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) round out the top three, with Thai GP winner Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) heading for Q1 after a P20 finish on Friday.
RAIN, RAIN, STAY AWAY
It was dry, but for how long? There was no hanging about at the start of MotoGP Practice in Brazil with a looming threat of rain, and the slick tyre time attacks were slammed in right at the top of the session. Damp patches and a light drizzle made conditions far from ideal, and it caught out a few riders in the early running.
Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) crashed very soon into the session at Turn 4, with Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) and home hero Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) also suffering similar incidents at the same corner while the heavy rain steered clear.
Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) and Marc Marquez were doing the early running at the timesheet summit, before Zarco pounced to go P1 with a 1:21.257. It was a real battle to get into the top 10 in the opening half an hour, with rookie Razgatlioglu arguably impressing the most. The Turk climbed to P3 behind Zarco and Marc Marquez, ahead of Martin and World Championship leader Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), and then the downpour came.
With around 30 minutes of Practice left, heavier rain sprinkled the Autodromo Internacional de Goiania – Ayrton Senna, and that meant anyone needing an improvement would be left disappointed – including Bezzecchi, who was sitting in P20 when the wet weather arrived.
The Italian was the first rider back out on track in the final 10 minutes once the weather had eased somewhat, and the Thai GP winner was lapping on slick tyres too in an attempt to try and scramble his way into the top 10. However, as expected, an improvement wasn’t coming. After running wide on the entry into Turn 10, Bezzecchi pulled back into the box and it looked like that was all she wrote in terms of the automatic Q2 places. And the same can be said for Thailand’s double podium finisher Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) – the #25 was outside the top 20 on a disappointing day for half of the RS-GP fleet.
YOUR BRAZIL TOP 10 ON FRIDAY
So behind the top three of Zarco, Marc Marquez and Razgatlioglu, we have Martin and Acosta, with Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) completing the top six. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) makes it two Yamahas inside the top 10 in P7, the Frenchman will be pleased with that, and chapeau to eighth place Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP). No pre-season testing. Still needing crutches to get around. And he sticks his Ducati in P8 in very tricky conditions. Impressive.
The 2025 Rookie of the Year sails into Q2 ahead of ninth place Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), with Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) the final rider who will sleep a little easier tonight knowing they’re safely into the pole position shootout in Goiania.
COMING UP: TISSOT SPRINT SATURDAY IN BRAZIL
A mixed conditions opening day back in Brazil has set us up very nicely for the second Tissot Sprint Saturday of the season. The weather is set to play a huge factor again in qualifying and in the dash for a gold medal, so be sure not to miss a single second of action at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Moto2: Arbolino Quickest Friday Afternoon at Goiânia
Tony Arbolino led Moto2 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Riding his REDS Fantic Racing Kalex on Pirelli control tires, the Italian lapped the 2.38-mile (3.84 km) road course in 1:23.709, topping the field of 28 riders.
Manuel Gonzalez was second-best with a time of 1:23.879 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex.
David Alonso did a third-fastest 1:24.075 on his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team Kalex.
Angel Piqueras got fourth on his QJMOTOR – Pont Grup – MSI Kalex wit a lap time of 1:24.188.
Mario Aji crossed the finish line fifth with a time of 1:24.270 on his Idemitsu Honda Team Asia Kalex.
American Joe Roberts finished Friday afternoon’s practice session 20th with a best time of 1:25.151 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
moto2 practice
More from a press release issued by MotoGP:
Arbolino heads Gonzalez for Friday Moto2 honours, Holgado in Q1. The Italian puts his Buriram woes behind him to lead the first day of Moto2 action in Brazil.
Battle lines have been drawn on our groundbreaking opening day at Goiania in Moto2 with Tony Arbolino (REDS Fantic Racing) leading the way and a pack of surprises. Behind him, Buriram winner Manuel Gonzalez (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) and David Alonso (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) completed the top three in what turned out to be a Friday that featured all four seasons. A wet but drying morning followed by wind, spots of rain but overall dry running in the afternoon, Goiania’s unpredictability was mirrored by the weather.
An array of fresh names and faces made it into Q2 straight away but it was Arbolino who surprised the most by topping the day’s running. The Italian led the combined times courtesy of the afternoon’s Practice being the only dry track time but nonetheless, made the most of the evolving conditions to lead the Moto2 charge. Championship leader Gonzalez was right behind him, 0.170s off the #14 whilst it was Alonso who rounded out the top three.
Onto the surprises and it’s fair to say that Angel Piqueras (QJ MOTOR – PONT GRUP – MSI) was a headline-grabber in fourth as he took top rookie honours whilst Mario Aji (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) was fifth, repeating his efforts from Friday afternoon in Thailand. Celestino Vietti (HDR SpeedRS Team) rounded out the top six but suffered a late technical issue.
Notable names not in the top 14 such as Senna Agius (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) who was 16th, Aron Canet (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) in 18th and Daniel Holgado (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) in 20th, with the Spaniard struggling on day one in Goiania after his podium from Buriram. There was a late crash for Zonta Van den Goorbergh crash at Turn 13.
Moto3: Almansa Is Best Friday Afternoon in Brazil
David Almansa led Moto3 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Almansa used his Pirelli-shod Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP KTM to lap the 2.38-mile (3.84 km) track in 1:30.260, which led the field of 25 riders.
Code Motorsports KTM’s Cormac Buchanan was second-best with a time of 1:30.263.
Veda Pratama, piloting his Honda Team Asia machine, claimed the third and final spot on the front with a lap time of 1:30.310.
Joel Kelso got fourth on his GRYD MLav Racing Honda with a lap time of 1:30.371.
Rico Salmela crossed the finish line fifth on his Red Bull KTM Tech3 machine with a time of 1:30.481.
moto3 practice
More from a press release issued by MotoGP:
Almansa pips Buchanan and Pratama on Friday in Brazil. Spain, New Zealand and Indonesia lock out the top three as Moto3 take on Goiânia for the first time.
David Almansa (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) went quickest in Friday Practice at the Estrella Galicia 0,0 Grand Prix of Brazil, but it’s just 0.050 covering the top three at the end of the session and day on MotoGP’s return to Brazil. Second goes to New Zealand’s Cormac Buchanan (CODE Motorsports), just 0.003 off the top, with Indonesian rookie Veda Pratama (Honda Team Asia) 0.047 further back in third.
Almansa’s 1:30.260 to go quickest in the afternoon is down from a 1:32.812 set by rookie Brian Uriarte (Red Bull KTM Ajo) in FP1, with conditions improved by the time practice rolled around for it to be officially classed as dry. Uriarte was nearly four tenths clear at the top in the morning and P7 in the afternoon.
Joel Kelso (MLav Racing), rookie Rico Salmela (Red Bull KTM Tech3) and Joel Esteban (LEVEL UP – MTA) trailed Pratama in the afternoon overall, slotting in ahead of Uriarte in P7. Marco Morelli (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team), Leo Rammerstorfer (SIC58 Squadra Corse) and Casey O’Gorman (SIC58 Squadra Corse) completed the top ten, with some of the less experienced riders finding plenty of space to shine at a track that’s brand new for all on the grid.
The top 14 – check out full results from Moto3 Practice in Brazil here – head straight through to Q2 qualifying, so make sure to come back for more from Moto3 on Saturday as the grid gets decided in Goiânia!
MotoGP: Sinkhole Repairs Delay Brazilian GP
Moto2 and Moto3 qualifying sessions have been postponed due to track surface issues caused by heavy rain in Goiânia.
MotoGP: Di Giannantonio On pole Position In Brazil
Fabio Di Giannantonio claimed pole position during MotoGP qualifying Saturday at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Riding his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP26 on the dry 2.38-mile (3.84 km) track, the Italian turned a 1:17.410. Not only was that good enough to top the 22-rider field, it was also his first pole since 2022.
Marco Bezzecchi was the best of the rest with a 1:17.480 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26, and Marc Marquez claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 1:17.491 on his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26.
Row-two qualifiers included Monster Energy Yamaha’s Fabio Quartararo (1:17.561), Bezzecchi’s teammate, Jorge Martin (1:17.630) and Trackhouse Aprilia’s Ai Ogura (1:17.702).
QP MOTOGP
More from a press release issued by MotoGP:
Di Giannantonio heads Bezzecchi after dramatic first qualifying in Brazil. The Q1 graduates steal the show, Marc Marquez takes third and Quartararo makes some magic to head Row 2.
Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) came out on top in a dramatic Q2 in Brazil, moving through from Q1 to head the grid despite a crash on a lap that would have put him even quicker. His 1:17.410 sees him secure pole ahead of fellow Q1 graduate Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing), with Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) forced to settle for third after a crash on his first run. He was far from the only one.
A word up top for the rider in fourth too – with Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) putting in a stunner to qualify fourth and head Row 2 in the new V4-powered YZR-M1’s second full-time Grand Prix.
Q1: Bezzecchi on a mission, Diggia on the chase
There was early drama for Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) as he crashed out in the first minutes – rider perfectly ok – following a crash in FP2 for the Italian too, clearly searching for the limit at a new venue. Bezzecchi was another who crashed in FP2 – compounding the pressure of being in Q1 – but the Italian was top of the timesheets from early doors.
He suffered a runoff later in Q1 but rejoined, and his place at the top of the session remained unthreatened – in fact, his Q1 lap remains the fastest of the day. Di Giannantonio joined him in the pole shootout in Q2, finding some impressive speed on Saturday and about to find even more.
Q2: Drama and magic in equal measure
Drama hit early again in Q2. First for Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) as the Italian slid out at Turn 9, rider ok, and then for Championship leader Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) soon after. Acosta was electric on his feet sprinting for the service road, luckily finding KTM stablemate Mika Kallio ready and waiting on a scooter to taxi him back to the paddock.
Next, about 30 seconds later Marc Marquez was on the floor – in exactly the same place. The race back to the box was on, as Diggia led the way on the timing screens from Marc Marquez by 0.071, Acosta hovered in P7 and Bagnaia remained the only rider with no time set after binning it before putting one in.
The #63 was first back out though and soon rectified that to at least slot into P9. Bezzechi then threatened the front row and took over in second, 0.060 off Diggia, with Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) slotting into fourth after a few red sectors and then seeing the lap fade slightly.
Meanwhile, Diggia improved at the top by 0.010, and then more drama – this time fo Martin. Red sectors this time saw the #89 crash out with no time to get back into the session, although rider perfectly ok.
The next red sector stunner to end in the gravel came from Diggia as an advantage of over a tenth – on his own time – went beginning as he slid out. The yellow flags got in the way for a few riders as the clock ticked down too, leaving only a few laps left to come in.
One of those coming in was from Quartararo. The #20 was up in the first sector, up in the second, and only 0.040 off in the third. Crossing the line it wasn’t quite pole, but it was just 0.151 off it as he slotted into fourth with a near-supernatural performance on Saturday morning.
Pole position, after his awesome charge up from Q1, stayed with Diggia. The #49 heads Bezzecchi by 0.070 with Marc Marquez – who couldn’t make up time as he headed back out – just 0.011 behind him to complete the front row for MotoGP’s return to Brazil. The Q1 graduates head the grid and Bezzecchi’s Q1 laptime is actually the fastest lap of qualifying – but Diggia’s pole is only 0.002 off it.
THE GRID
Behind Diggia, Bezzecchi and Marc Marquez, Quartararo heads that second row, only 0.070 off the #93 ahead of him and 0.069 ahead of Martin, who didn’t lose out on any more positions after his crash barring Quartararo’s leapfrog. Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) takes P6 to complete that second row.
Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) returns from injury with a P7 qualifying position, just ahead of Alex Marquez in eighth. Acosta will be ruing his crash as he lines up on the third row in P9, looking to make big progress from lights out to defend that championship lead.
Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) takes P10, with Bagnaia unable to make much headway up from a 1:18.122 – putting him P11 on the grid. Toprak Razgatlioglu will line up P12 after moving directly through thanks to his stunning exploits with Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP on Friday, and the Turkish rookie is only 0.300 off Bagnaia ahead of him.
The stage is set for a stunning first Tissot Sprint in Brazil, with Acosta looking to move up, Bezzecchi and Marc Marquez right alongside each other… and Diggia on pole looking to prove his own point. Find full qualifying results HERE and tune in from 15:00 local time (UTC -3)!
MotoGP: Ogura Is Best In Saturday Practice At Goiânia
Ai Ogura led MotoGP World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Saturday morning at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Riding his Aprilia Trackhouse RS-GP26 on spec Michelin tires, Ogura turned a lap time of 1:18.237 to lead the 22-rider field.
Marc Marquez was the best of the rest with a 1:18.248 on his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26.
Jorge Martin was third at 1:18.405 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26.
Marquez’s teammate, Francesco Bagnaia finished the session fourth with a 1:18.518.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Pedro Acosta got fifth with a lap time of 1:18.616.
fp2 motogp
Moto2: Guevara Tops Final Practice In Brazil
Izan Guevara was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Saturday morning at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Riding his Pirelli-shod Blu Cru Pramac Yamaha Boscoscuro on the 2.38-mile (3.84 km) track, the Spaniard recorded a 1:21.256 to lead the field of 28 riders.
Manuel Gonzalez was the best of the rest with a 1:21.494 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex.
Mario Aji was third-fastest with a 1:21.690 on his Idemitsu Honda Team Asia Kalex.
American Joe Roberts finished Saturday morning’s practice session 20th with a best time of 1:22.353 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
moto2 fp2
Moto3: Almansa Heads Saturday Practice At Goiânia
David Almansa led Moto3 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Saturday morning, at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Almansa used his Pirelli-shod Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP KTM to lap the 2.38-mile (3.84 km) track in 1:27.308 to lead the field of 25 riders.
Joel Kelso was second-best with a time of 1:27.365 on his GRYD – MLav Racing Honda.
Valentin Perrone, piloting his Red Bull KTM Tech3 machine, claimed the third and final spot on the front with a lap time of 1:27.466.
fp2 moto3
Moto4 Latin Cup: Matsudaira & Salem Fastest in FP1 & FP2
American Kensei Matsudaira had a strong start at Goiânia in the Moto4 Latin Cup, setting the fastest time in Free Practice 1 with a 1:39.782.
In Free Practice 2, Mahdi Salem went quickest with a 1:44.098 after doing a 1:41.381 in FP1. Matsudaira stayed near the front in FP2 with a 1:44.498, finishing third, as both riders showed good pace on the opening day in Brazil.
The Aprilia RS 660 & RS 457 Are Italy’s Best-Selling Sport Bikes
The two small- and medium-displacement sports motorcycles are the country’s most popular models, with over 21% of the market share.
These new sports bikes have also proved extremely popular in the USA—a market in which Aprilia has seen 12% growth over the past year—as well as in Europe, where the RS 660 is one of the best-selling sports bikes overall, driven in part by Aprilia’s MotoGP success.
The RS range represents the very best of the modern road sports bike category, created by Aprilia itself, thanks to its lightweight, high-performance bikes that are both appealing and affordable, delivering plenty of fun on the road as well as superb performance on the track.
The Aprilia RS 660 continues to enjoy remarkable success in the fairing sports bike market; in 2025, it was once again the best-selling model in Italy, closely followed by the Aprilia RS 457 in second place. The success of the RS 660 and RS 457 is the result of Aprilia’s genius intuition; the company was the first to take an innovative, modern approach to sporty bikes, creating a new generation of lightweight, high-performance motorcycles equipped with top-of-the-range technical and electronic features, accessible to all and fun to ride on a daily basis for those new to motorbikes, yet more than capable of delivering excitement on the track and in the hands of more experienced riders.
The Aprilia RS 660 is the godfather of the new generation of road-going sports bikes, referred to simply as ‘SportBikes’, and has been conceived to rekindle the joy of riding with clip-on handlebars on the road, whilst remaining rapid and effective on the track too. This is demonstrated by the results achieved in all the championships in which the Aprilia RS 660 has competed, including the Twin Cup classes in MotoAmerica and the SportBike class in the British Superbike championship, where it has always taken the top spots. In 2026, the SportBike class will also make its début in the World Superbike Championship, with four RS 660 motorcycles set to line up on the grid, promising to make their presence felt from the off.
The incredible lap time of 1’45”129 set by Marco Bezzecchi in the Race of Stars, a competition held between the best Aprilia riders of all time during the Aprilia All Stars festival at the Misano circuit, was achieved on a standard RS 660 Factory bike, in line with the FMI regulations – a result that serves as the cherry on the cake for this extraordinary model.
In 2025, Aprilia was the leading European brand in terms of sales of fairing sports bikes in Europe, with 13% of the market share; this is thanks in part to the brand’s comprehensive range, spanning from the RS 125 (Aprilia’s entry-level sports bike) to the queen of superbikes, “Her Majesty” the RSV4; indeed, Aprilia alone sold more sports bikes than its two main European competitors combined. The RS 660 is one of the top-selling sports bikes in Europe, while the RS 457 has also recorded excellent sales figures, meeting the mobility, style and taste requirements of young motorcycle riders.
In the United States, the sports bike segment was the only area that saw growth in 2025, and is now the second largest after the motocross segment. Aprilia is fifth when it comes to sales of sports bikes (and is the leading European manufacturer), as well as being the brand that saw the most growth in 2025 (+30% over 2024).
The growing success of Aprilia in terms of global sports bikes sales reflects the company’s traditional and globally-recognised status as a manufacturer of the highest-quality motorcycle chassis, and this goes hand in hand with its success in the MotoGP. The 2025 season was Aprilia’s best ever in the premier class of the World Championship, with Marco Bezzecchi finishing third in the Riders’ ranking; meanwhile, the team took home second place in the Constructors’ standings, thanks to three wins in the long races, three in the sprints, 15 podium finishes and five pole positions.
- Aprilia RS 457
With the RS 457, Aprilia enters a segment with a focus on the future, both in terms of the next generation and new markets; this bike has been conceived to meet the growing demand for motorcycles that are easy to handle yet fun, boasting cutting-edge technology and design.
The Aprilia RS 457 is the fruit of a completely new design, with key strengths include its lightness (it has the best possible power-to-weight ratio for a bike that can be ridden on an A2 licence), its ease of handling and its technological equipment. The RS 457 is designed to support riders as they grow and develop, both on the road and on the track.
It is powered by an all-new liquid-cooled, front-mounted twin-cylinder engine with dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder, which delivers 35 kW of power, the maximum permitted for a motorcycle that can be ridden on an A2 licence. In addition to its power, the bike also boasts a dry weight of just 159 kg (175 kg when fully fuelled), lending it a power-to-weight ratio that is simply unbeatable. The aluminium frame (which also incorporates the engine) and the adjustable suspension create a chassis that is a benchmark within the sector. In line with true Aprilia tradition, the standard electronic equipment offered with this model is extremely comprehensive: Ride-by-Wire throttle, three Riding Modes, ABS and adjustable traction control, which can also be deactivated. Accessories include the electronic quick-shift gearbox.
Aprilia RS 457 is also available in the GP Replica version, a tribute to the RS-GP used to compete in MotoGP.
- Aprilia RS 660
The godfather of the new generation of sports road bikes, this model ushers in a whole new concept of sportiness: premium technical features and superb performance that is never excessive, enabling riders to rediscover the pleasure of dynamic riding on the road – a sports bike suitable for all motorcyclists, which requires no particular experience or skill. The innovative concept behind the design lies in the RS 660’s optimal power-to-weight ratio, which makes for a fun, joyful riding experience, whether during everyday use or in more sporty contexts: 169 kg and 105 hp – the perfect formula for fun on the road.
From a technical perspective, the RS 660 is truly unique within its genre: an aluminium frame and swingarm, coupled with a high-performance parallel-twin engine makes it accessible to all. The electronic equipment is top of the range, with Ride-by-Wire throttle control and a six-axis inertial platform to enable the APRC electronic assistance package to function optimally.
There are five Riding Modes designed to adjust the behaviour of the electronic controls to maximise safety and enjoyment during everyday trips, dynamic road riding and riding on the track.
The Aprilia RS 660 also stands out for its particularly advanced aerodynamics, featuring a twin fairing that acts as an aerodynamic appendage to optimise the stability of the bike at high speeds, whilst providing the rider and passenger with maximum protection from the air pressure.
Also available in a Factory version, which, in true Aprilia tradition, features a more comprehensive and refined standard set-up.
MotoGP: Zarco Fastest, Toprak Third Friday In Brazil
Johann Zarco led MotoGP World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Riding his Castrol Honda LCR RC213V on spec Michelin tires, the Frenchman turned a lap time of 1:21.257 to lead the 22-rider field.
Marc Marquez was the best of the rest with a 1:21.382 on his Lenovo Ducati Desmosedici GP26.
Toprak Razgatlioglu was third at 1:21.565 on his Prima Pramac Yamaha YZR-M1.
Jorge Martin finished the session fourth with a 1:21.566 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Pedro Acosta got fifth with a lap time of 1:21.750.
motogp practice
More from a press release issued by MotoGP:
Zarco fastest from Marc Marquez in Brazil, Razgatlioglu into Q2. Rain plays a big role in MotoGP Practice at the Brazilian GP with the Turkish rookie impressing on the opening day back in Goiania.
Castrol Honda LCR’s Johann Zarco fronts the MotoGP pack after a mixed conditions Day 1 plays out at the Estrella Galicia 0,0 Grand Prix of Brazil, in a rain-affected afternoon stint that saw Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Toprak Razgatlioglu (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) round out the top three, with Thai GP winner Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) heading for Q1 after a P20 finish on Friday.
RAIN, RAIN, STAY AWAY
It was dry, but for how long? There was no hanging about at the start of MotoGP Practice in Brazil with a looming threat of rain, and the slick tyre time attacks were slammed in right at the top of the session. Damp patches and a light drizzle made conditions far from ideal, and it caught out a few riders in the early running.
Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) crashed very soon into the session at Turn 4, with Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) and home hero Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) also suffering similar incidents at the same corner while the heavy rain steered clear.
Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) and Marc Marquez were doing the early running at the timesheet summit, before Zarco pounced to go P1 with a 1:21.257. It was a real battle to get into the top 10 in the opening half an hour, with rookie Razgatlioglu arguably impressing the most. The Turk climbed to P3 behind Zarco and Marc Marquez, ahead of Martin and World Championship leader Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), and then the downpour came.
With around 30 minutes of Practice left, heavier rain sprinkled the Autodromo Internacional de Goiania – Ayrton Senna, and that meant anyone needing an improvement would be left disappointed – including Bezzecchi, who was sitting in P20 when the wet weather arrived.
The Italian was the first rider back out on track in the final 10 minutes once the weather had eased somewhat, and the Thai GP winner was lapping on slick tyres too in an attempt to try and scramble his way into the top 10. However, as expected, an improvement wasn’t coming. After running wide on the entry into Turn 10, Bezzecchi pulled back into the box and it looked like that was all she wrote in terms of the automatic Q2 places. And the same can be said for Thailand’s double podium finisher Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) – the #25 was outside the top 20 on a disappointing day for half of the RS-GP fleet.
YOUR BRAZIL TOP 10 ON FRIDAY
So behind the top three of Zarco, Marc Marquez and Razgatlioglu, we have Martin and Acosta, with Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) completing the top six. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) makes it two Yamahas inside the top 10 in P7, the Frenchman will be pleased with that, and chapeau to eighth place Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP). No pre-season testing. Still needing crutches to get around. And he sticks his Ducati in P8 in very tricky conditions. Impressive.
The 2025 Rookie of the Year sails into Q2 ahead of ninth place Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), with Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) the final rider who will sleep a little easier tonight knowing they’re safely into the pole position shootout in Goiania.
COMING UP: TISSOT SPRINT SATURDAY IN BRAZIL
A mixed conditions opening day back in Brazil has set us up very nicely for the second Tissot Sprint Saturday of the season. The weather is set to play a huge factor again in qualifying and in the dash for a gold medal, so be sure not to miss a single second of action at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Moto2: Arbolino Quickest Friday Afternoon at Goiânia
Tony Arbolino led Moto2 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Riding his REDS Fantic Racing Kalex on Pirelli control tires, the Italian lapped the 2.38-mile (3.84 km) road course in 1:23.709, topping the field of 28 riders.
Manuel Gonzalez was second-best with a time of 1:23.879 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex.
David Alonso did a third-fastest 1:24.075 on his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team Kalex.
Angel Piqueras got fourth on his QJMOTOR – Pont Grup – MSI Kalex wit a lap time of 1:24.188.
Mario Aji crossed the finish line fifth with a time of 1:24.270 on his Idemitsu Honda Team Asia Kalex.
American Joe Roberts finished Friday afternoon’s practice session 20th with a best time of 1:25.151 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
moto2 practice
More from a press release issued by MotoGP:
Arbolino heads Gonzalez for Friday Moto2 honours, Holgado in Q1. The Italian puts his Buriram woes behind him to lead the first day of Moto2 action in Brazil.
Battle lines have been drawn on our groundbreaking opening day at Goiania in Moto2 with Tony Arbolino (REDS Fantic Racing) leading the way and a pack of surprises. Behind him, Buriram winner Manuel Gonzalez (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) and David Alonso (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) completed the top three in what turned out to be a Friday that featured all four seasons. A wet but drying morning followed by wind, spots of rain but overall dry running in the afternoon, Goiania’s unpredictability was mirrored by the weather.
An array of fresh names and faces made it into Q2 straight away but it was Arbolino who surprised the most by topping the day’s running. The Italian led the combined times courtesy of the afternoon’s Practice being the only dry track time but nonetheless, made the most of the evolving conditions to lead the Moto2 charge. Championship leader Gonzalez was right behind him, 0.170s off the #14 whilst it was Alonso who rounded out the top three.
Onto the surprises and it’s fair to say that Angel Piqueras (QJ MOTOR – PONT GRUP – MSI) was a headline-grabber in fourth as he took top rookie honours whilst Mario Aji (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) was fifth, repeating his efforts from Friday afternoon in Thailand. Celestino Vietti (HDR SpeedRS Team) rounded out the top six but suffered a late technical issue.
Notable names not in the top 14 such as Senna Agius (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) who was 16th, Aron Canet (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) in 18th and Daniel Holgado (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) in 20th, with the Spaniard struggling on day one in Goiania after his podium from Buriram. There was a late crash for Zonta Van den Goorbergh crash at Turn 13.
Moto3: Almansa Is Best Friday Afternoon in Brazil
David Almansa led Moto3 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna, in Brazil. Almansa used his Pirelli-shod Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP KTM to lap the 2.38-mile (3.84 km) track in 1:30.260, which led the field of 25 riders.
Code Motorsports KTM’s Cormac Buchanan was second-best with a time of 1:30.263.
Veda Pratama, piloting his Honda Team Asia machine, claimed the third and final spot on the front with a lap time of 1:30.310.
Joel Kelso got fourth on his GRYD MLav Racing Honda with a lap time of 1:30.371.
Rico Salmela crossed the finish line fifth on his Red Bull KTM Tech3 machine with a time of 1:30.481.
moto3 practice
More from a press release issued by MotoGP:
Almansa pips Buchanan and Pratama on Friday in Brazil. Spain, New Zealand and Indonesia lock out the top three as Moto3 take on Goiânia for the first time.
David Almansa (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) went quickest in Friday Practice at the Estrella Galicia 0,0 Grand Prix of Brazil, but it’s just 0.050 covering the top three at the end of the session and day on MotoGP’s return to Brazil. Second goes to New Zealand’s Cormac Buchanan (CODE Motorsports), just 0.003 off the top, with Indonesian rookie Veda Pratama (Honda Team Asia) 0.047 further back in third.
Almansa’s 1:30.260 to go quickest in the afternoon is down from a 1:32.812 set by rookie Brian Uriarte (Red Bull KTM Ajo) in FP1, with conditions improved by the time practice rolled around for it to be officially classed as dry. Uriarte was nearly four tenths clear at the top in the morning and P7 in the afternoon.
Joel Kelso (MLav Racing), rookie Rico Salmela (Red Bull KTM Tech3) and Joel Esteban (LEVEL UP – MTA) trailed Pratama in the afternoon overall, slotting in ahead of Uriarte in P7. Marco Morelli (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team), Leo Rammerstorfer (SIC58 Squadra Corse) and Casey O’Gorman (SIC58 Squadra Corse) completed the top ten, with some of the less experienced riders finding plenty of space to shine at a track that’s brand new for all on the grid.
The top 14 – check out full results from Moto3 Practice in Brazil here – head straight through to Q2 qualifying, so make sure to come back for more from Moto3 on Saturday as the grid gets decided in Goiânia!