MotoGP confirms 2027 format with Friday sprint qualifying

MotoGP and the International Motorcycling Federation have confirmed a revised Grand Prix weekend format for 2027, adding a dedicated Friday qualifying session to set the grid for sprint races. The change has drawn differing reactions from riders, including concern that the extra competitive session will increase demands on them. Marc Marquez said riders had not been given a choice in the decision. Speaking at the Indonesian Grand Prix, the Ducati rider said teams and the championship organization had made the call and riders would have to accept it or leave. He said the existing format had been sufficient, but that riders would adapt. Pedro Acosta also criticized the change, saying the additional sessions could increase stress and risk. He predicted that the format could shorten riders’ careers, though that remains a concern rather than an established effect. Acosta said he would prefer sprint races at half of the Grands Prix and argued that fewer sessions would help limit exposure to risk. Acosta said the weekend already includes several sessions in which riders take risks, including qualifying, sprint races and the main race.