The roar of MotoGP engines returns this weekend as the world championship heads to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for the 2026 Catalan Grand Prix. Just days after the French GP at Le Mans, the series shifts gears for a thrilling double-header, with Barcelona's low-grip surface promising a very different challenge from the high-traction Bugatti Circuit.
Ducati arrives as the team to beat, having dominated the Spanish venue with three consecutive wins, including last year's emotional Solidarity GP. But history shows that Barcelona can spring surprises. In 2023, Aprilia claimed its first-ever 1-2 finish in MotoGP, with Aleix Espargaro leading Maverick Vinales across the line. The Noale factory is once again tipped as a strong contender for the top step this weekend.
However, Ducati's assault has been dealt a blow. Marc Marquez is sidelined after undergoing double surgery following a crash in the sprint race last Saturday. With no replacement announced, Francesco Bagnaia will fly the flag solo for the factory team, adding extra pressure to the reigning champion's campaign.
Beyond the race action, Monday brings an in-season test—a golden opportunity for manufacturers to trial crucial updates in the final year of the 1000cc regulations. Fans won't want to miss a moment of the on-track drama.
Session Times (BST):
Free Practice 1: Friday, 09:45 - 10:30
Practice: Friday, 14:00 - 15:00
Free Practice 2: Saturday, 09:10 - 09:40
Qualifying: Saturday, 09:50 - 10:30
Sprint: Saturday, 14:00
Race: Sunday, 14:00
Key Local Times:
CEST: FP2 10:10, Qualifying 10:50, Sprint 15:00
ET: FP2 04:10, Qualifying 04:50, Sprint 09:00
PT: FP2 01:10, Qualifying 01:50, Sprint 06:00
AEST: FP2 18:10, Qualifying 18:50, Sprint 23:00
JST: FP2 17:10, Qualifying 17:50, Sprint 22:00
Whether you're gearing up for the race or just love the sport, the Catalan GP promises high-speed drama under the Spanish sun.