MotoGP is reportedly planning to introduce two qualifying sessions per weekend, mirroring the approach long used by Formula 1. The initiative has been discussed in a dialogue forum involving teams, the championship organizer, and manufacturers, and is expected to get the green light in the coming days. If approved, the change will take effect next season, significantly altering how grids are set for both the sprint and the grand prix.
Currently, MotoGP relies on a single qualifying session that determines the starting order for both races: the sprint on Saturday and the grand prix on Sunday. Under the new format, there would be separate qualifying sessions for each race, just as F1 does at events featuring a sprint. Notably, F1 itself will hold 10 sprint races next year, up from six in 2026.
Although the measure appears to have been well received by most involved parties, including teams and manufacturers, incorporating it into the regulations will still have to go through the appropriate procedural channels. Before that happens, the schedule for each race weekend will need to be finalized. According to information gathered by Autosport, the main difference between the F1 and MotoGP models will be the placement of the sprint. MotoGP plans to keep the sprint in the late afternoon, while F1 holds its sprint on Saturday morning and reserves Saturday afternoon for grand prix qualifying.
Additionally, there is a push from one party to split qualifying into three sessions—Q1, Q2, and Q3—following F1's format, rather than the current two-stage system (Q1 and Q2). This proposal is still under discussion and no final decision has been made. Clearly, this potential overhaul is rooted in history: the idea of sprint races first emerged at Spielberg four years ago, the same venue that will host the Austrian Grand Prix this weekend.
Unlike F1, which initially opted for three sprint events before gradually increasing their number, MotoGP chose to standardize the sprint format at every event. That decision was made three years before Liberty Media completed its acquisition of Dorna, MotoGP's commercial rights holder, in mid-2025. Since the new format was introduced in 2023, riders have highlighted the level of stress and risk they face, especially with only one free practice session on Friday morning before Practice determines who goes directly to Q2 and who must go through Q1.
The impact of this potential change is huge. With two separate qualifiers, riders and teams will have to devise more complex strategies, as each qualifying session will set the grid for a different race. This could also affect championship dynamics, as a mistake in one qualifying will no longer automatically ruin the starting position for the other race. For fans, it means more nail-biting qualifying action and the chance to see surprises on the grid.
However, there has been no official confirmation from MotoGP or Dorna Sports yet. We'll have to wait and see if this proposal truly materializes and how riders react, especially those who have been vocal about the crowded schedule. One thing is certain: the winds of change are blowing strongly through the MotoGP paddock.
Read Also
Marc Marquez insists Pedro Acosta is still in the MotoGP 2026 title fight after the KTM rider's strong Friday practice at the Austrian GP. Read more.
Jorge Martin relieved as his right arm holds up in Austrian MotoGP practice. He remains uncertain about surgery for arm pump.
Pedro Acosta leads practice at MotoGP Austria 2026. KTM eyes ending win drought at Red Bull Ring. Read our analysis.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!