When Does MotoGP Start in 2025? Full Schedule & Key Dates

By Sarah Miller · February 6, 2038

The 2025 MotoGP World Championship begins on March 16, 2025, with the Qatar Grand Prix at Lusail International Circuit, marking the official start of the season under the lights of the Doha desert.

When Does MotoGP Start in 2025?

The opening round of the 2025 MotoGP season is set for March 14–16 at the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar. This weekend kicks off the 77th FIM Road Racing World Championship season, featuring three classes: MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3. Free practice starts on Friday, March 14, with the premier class race scheduled for Sunday, March 16 at 8:00 PM local time (UTC+3).

This year's season opener returns to its traditional slot after recent calendar shifts due to global events, reaffirming Qatar's role as the ceremonial launchpad for the championship.

MotoGP 2025 Calendar Overview

The 2025 MotoGP calendar features 21 Grands Prix across five continents, making it one of the most geographically diverse sports seasons in the world. The season spans from March to November, with races held on street circuits, permanent road courses, and high-speed tracks.

Key highlights include:

The return of the Finnish Grand Prix at Tampere after a multi-year absence
The U.S. hosting three races: Austin (COTA), Laguna Seca, and Indianapolis
Portugal hosting the final race of the season at Algarve International Circuit
Double-header events in Europe during summer months to reduce travel fatigue

Race Weekend Format

Each MotoGP race weekend follows a standardized format across all three classes:

Friday: Two free practice sessions (FP1 & FP2)
Saturday: FP3, qualifying (Q1/Q2), and Sprint Race (on applicable weekends)
Sunday: Main race day with warm-up session and the Grand Prix

Note: Sprint races are held at 10 selected rounds in 2025, introduced to increase mid-weekend excitement and fan engagement.

Key Dates and Venues for 2025 Season

Round	Grand Prix	Circuit	Location	Date	Main Event Time (Local)
1	Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar	Lusail International Circuit	Doha, Qatar	Mar 14–16	8:00 PM
2	Gran Premio Red Bull di Italia	Autodromo Nazionale Monza	Monza, Italy	Apr 4–6	3:00 PM
3	Spanish Grand Prix	Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto	Jerez, Spain	Apr 25–27	2:00 PM
4	French Grand Prix	Le Mans Bugatti Circuit	Le Mans, France	May 16–18	3:00 PM
5	German Grand Prix	Sachsenring	Hohenstein-Ernstthal, Germany	May 30–Jun 1	3:00 PM
6	Dutch TT	TT Circuit Assen	Assen, Netherlands	Jun 20–22	3:00 PM
7	British Grand Prix	Silverstone Circuit	Silverstone, UK	Jul 4–6	3:00 PM
8	Finnish Grand Prix	Tampere Motorstadion	Tampere, Finland	Jul 18–20	2:00 PM

Table data source:1, 2

The table shows the first eight rounds of the 2025 MotoGP season, highlighting the early European phase following the Qatar opener. Most races are concentrated between April and July, with back-to-back events increasing physical demands on riders. The staggered local start times reflect regional preferences, with evening races in the Middle East and afternoon starts in Europe.

How to Watch MotoGP 2025

Fans can access live coverage through official broadcast partners and streaming platforms. In 2025, Dorna Sports continues to expand its digital reach via MotoGP VideoPass, offering live streams, onboard cameras, and replays in HD and 4K.

North America: Available on ESPN+ and Fox Sports
Europe: Sky Sports, RTVE, and Eurosport
Asia-Pacific: Fox Sports Asia, Seven Network (Australia)
Streaming: Official MotoGP app and website with regional access options

Subscribers gain access to live timing, exclusive interviews, and pre-race analysis, enhancing viewer engagement throughout the season.

About the MotoGP Championship

MotoGP is the premier class of motorcycle road racing, governed by the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). Since its inception in 1949, it has evolved into a technologically advanced sport combining speed, precision, and rider skill. Modern MotoGP bikes produce over 270 horsepower and reach top speeds exceeding 360 km/h (224 mph).

The 2025 season introduces updated aerodynamic regulations aimed at improving overtaking and reducing rider fatigue, part of ongoing efforts to balance competition and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions About When MotoGP Starts

When does the 2025 MotoGP season start?

The 2025 MotoGP season officially begins on March 16, 2025, with the Qatar Grand Prix at Lusail International Circuit. Practice sessions begin on March 14.

What time does the first MotoGP race start?

The opening race of the 2025 season starts at 8:00 PM local time (UTC+3) on March 16 at Lusail Circuit. For viewers in New York (EST), this is 1:00 PM; in London (GMT), it's 5:00 PM.

How many races are in the 2025 MotoGP season?

The 2025 MotoGP World Championship consists of 21 Grand Prix events, including the debut of the Indianapolis GP and the return of the Finnish GP after a six-year hiatus.

Is the Qatar GP always the first race of the season?

Since 2004, Qatar has hosted the season opener in most years, thanks to its favorable winter climate. However, exceptions occurred in 2020–2021 due to pandemic-related delays. It remains the traditional starting point for the championship.

Can I watch the first MotoGP race online?

Yes, the Qatar Grand Prix can be streamed globally via MotoGP VideoPass. Regional broadcasters like ESPN+ (USA) and Sky Sports (UK) also offer live online streaming with subscription.