Everything you need to know: 2026 MotoGP pre-season testing

MotoGP is set to kick off its 2026 on-track action with pre-season testing. With exciting new rookies ready to make their debuts and the new season’s updated machinery to sink your teeth into, the championship’s prologue is sure to be brimming with intriguing storylines.

Here is your complete guide to the 2026 MotoGP pre-season testing schedule and how to watch all the action from the UK.

What is MotoGP 2026 pre-season testing?

Pre-season testing is the only time teams can put their new machinery through its paces without the pressure of a competitive race weekend. For 2026, this is especially vital as manufacturers like Yamaha debut their highly anticipated V4 engine and others scramble to close the gap to Ducati.

Testing is split into two distinct phases:

• The Shakedown Test: A three-day session reserved for factory test riders, rookies and manufacturers with concessions.
• Official Tests: Where the full 2026 grid heads out to fine-tune setups.

Teams will focus on validating aero packages, engine longevity and adapting to the latest Michelin tyre compounds before the 22-round global tour begins.

When and where does MotoGP 2026 testing take place?

The 2026 pre-season kicks off at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit with the Shakedown test at the end of January. Then, the rest of the riders will get rolling with the first full-grid test at the beginning of February. 

Following the Malaysian sessions, the paddock moves to the Chang International Circuit in Thailand for a final two-day test, just one week before the same circuit hosts the season opener.

Which riders and teams should I watch?

The 2026 grid is bursting with two-wheeled talent, packed with world champions and hungry newcomers. Some of the key names to keep an eye on in 2026 are:

• Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo): The reigning champion remains the man to beat, but is returning from injury late in 2025. All eyes will be on whether he can maintain his dominance as team-mate Pecco Bagnaia looks to reclaim his crown.
• Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing): After moving to the Noale factory, the 2024 champion will be on a mission to prove he still has what it takes and to beat in-form team-mate Marco Bezzecchi.
• Toprak Razgatlıoğlu (Pramac Yamaha): The biggest story of the 2025 rider market. The three-time WorldSBK champion finally makes his MotoGP debut. His aggressive braking style will make a fascinating addition to the grid.
• Diogo Moreira (LCR Honda): The Brazilian superstar joins LCR as the reigning Moto2 champion and will certainly be one to watch in 2026.

How to watch MotoGP 2026 in the UK

Whether you want to catch every second of testing or just the race highlights, UK fans have several options for the 2026 season.

• Quest (free highlights)
• TNT Sports & discovery+ (Subscription service – comprehensive coverage)
• MotoGP VideoPass (Subscription service – comprehensive coverage)

READ MORE: How to watch MotoGP in 2026