The MotoGP weekend format determines the starting grid through two distinct qualifying sessions, which then sets the field for both the short Saturday Sprint and the full-length Sunday Main Race.
: To qualify for a race, a rider must set a lap time within 105% of the fastest lap in any practice or qualifying session. Grid Placement : MotoGP Main Race | MotoGP Qualifying
: All other riders compete in this session. The top two fastest riders from Q1 earn "promotion" into the Q2 session. The MotoGP weekend format determines the starting grid
Qualifying is split into two 15-minute sessions, and Q2 , used to establish the grid for the entire weekend. Entry Requirements : The top two fastest riders from Q1 earn
: The fastest 10 riders from Friday afternoon's timed "Practice" session advance directly to Q2.
: The 12 remaining riders compete for Pole Position (1st place) and the first four rows (positions 1–12).
: Riders who finish 3rd or lower in Q1 take their positions from 13th place backward based on their best lap times. MotoGP Races: Sprint vs. Main Race MotoGP Qualifying Explained - updated for the 2026 season