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MotoGP Silly Season: Here’s What 2026 Grid Looks Like

4 Min Read

The MotoGP silly season of 2025 has finally come to a close, and what a rollercoaster it has been! After 11 months of chaotic, unpredictable, and downright surprising contract deals and seat swaps, the 2026 grid is fully locked in. The musical chairs are over, the dust has settled, and the new season promises plenty of excitement with a few surprises along the way. From established stars sticking around to thrilling rookies making their debut, here’s what the 2026 MotoGP lineup looks like, team by team.

MotoGP Silly Season: 2026 MotoGP Lineup

Honda HRC

Honda’s grid puzzle is complete after confirming their rider lineup across their factory teams. Johann Zarco will continue his journey with CASTROL Honda LCR for both 2026 and 2027, bringing stability to the team. Luca Marini will stay put with Honda HRC Castrol, continuing to showcase his talents. The final spot at IDEMITSU Honda LCR has been filled by none other than Brazil’s Diogo Moreira, closing out Honda’s roster with fresh energy and big hopes for the future. Honda clearly kept their faith in experienced racers in MotoGP Silly Season while nurturing fresh talent to keep their squad competitive.

Aprilia Racing

One of the MotoGP Silly Season’s headline stories centred around Jorge Martin’s contract saga with Aprilia. After waves of speculation and multiple statements, the dust has finally settled. Martin, affectionately dubbed ‘The Martinator’, is firmly locked in with Aprilia for the 2026 season, dashing any rumours of a switch. This continuity will surely do Aprilia well as they look to build on their strong performances with a settled top rider.

Pramac Yamaha

Pramac Yamaha made a decisive move by retaining Jack Miller for the 2026 MotoGP lineup, lining him up alongside rookie sensation Toprak Razgatlioglu. The Turkish WorldSBK champion’s transition to MotoGP has sent ripples of excitement across paddocks, blending youth and experience in a team poised to make waves. Miller’s presence ensures a strong front for the squad, while Razgatlioglu’s move is eagerly watched by fans and rivals alike.

Riders Moving to WorldSBK and Test Roles

Not every racer’s 2026 plan keeps them in MotoGP. Miguel Oliveira’s uncertain future has now been resolved as he joins the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK team, shifting his talents to the World Superbike Championship. Meanwhile, Nicolo Bulega will remain in WorldSBK while serving as Ducati’s official test rider in MotoGP, preparing the ground for the 2027 season’s anticipated rule changes. These moves highlight the fluidity and connection between the two championships, with riders gaining valuable experience across platforms.

Other Notable Mentions

The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team keeps faith in Franco Morbidelli for another season, cementing their trust in the seasoned rider’s capabilities. Ducati continues its exciting youth movement with new rookie Fermin Aldeguer joining BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP, adding another wildcard to the mix.

2026 Pre-Season and What’s Next

With the 2026 MotoGP lineup finalised, all eyes now turn to the 2026 pre-season testing dates, already announced and eagerly anticipated. But before we jump into the new year, there’s still some thrilling racing left in 2025 to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting MotoGP seasons yet, filled with intense rivalries and new stories waiting to unfold on the track. Don’t miss a moment!

Also read: Marc Marquez Injury Update: Successfully Undergoes Surgery