The thrill of MotoGP returns this week as the series heads to the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, for the Gran Premio delle Americhe. Following a challenging race in Brazil marked by weather delays and track conditions, teams and riders are eager to get back on track. The 2026 MotoGP season is already shaping up to be a competitive one and the Austin race promises to be a crucial test for current standings, particularly with a return to standard rear tire carcasses after using reinforced tires in Thailand and Brazil due to high temperatures.
All eyes will be on reigning World Champion Marc Marquez, racing on what is essentially home soil. The Circuit of the Americas has historically been a favorable track for Marquez, where he achieved a remarkable winning streak from 2013 to 2021 (with the exception of 2019). While recent results haven’t mirrored his earlier dominance, a strong performance in Texas could signal a return to form. Last year, Marquez was leading the race before a crash took him out of contention.
The pressure is on Ducati to deliver results after a disappointing showing in Brazil. If they continue to struggle in Austin, concerns will undoubtedly grow within the team. Meanwhile, Aprilia and rider Marco Bezzecchi are riding high on momentum after consecutive victories. A strong showing in Texas would solidify their position as serious championship contenders. Aprilia also has fond memories of the track, with Maverick Viñales securing a win – and a Sprint victory – there in 2024.
Jorge Martin, who appears to have overcome recent physical challenges, is also poised to be a frontrunner. The performance of rookie sensation Pedro Acosta will also be closely watched. After a stunning debut in Thailand, where he led the championship, Acosta faced difficulties in Brazil with the KTM. Honda will be looking to rebound from a slow start to the season on a track that has historically suited their RC213V machines, and Yamaha continues to develop its new V4 engine.
MotoGP 2026: The Full Schedule for the Gran Premio delle Americhe
The MotoGP schedule in Austin returns to a more traditional format after the unique circumstances in Brazil. Here’s a breakdown of the weekend’s schedule, with times listed in Italian time (Central European Time/CET):
Friday, March 27
FP1 Moto3: 15:00-15:35
FP1 Moto2: 15:50-16:30
FP1 MotoGP: 16:45-17:30
P Moto3: 19:15-19:50
P Moto2: 20:05-20:45
P MotoGP: 21:00-22:00
Saturday, March 28
FP2 Moto3: 14:40-15:10
FP2 Moto2: 15:25-15:55
FP2 MotoGP: 16:10-16:40
Qualifiche MotoGP: 16:50-17:30
Qualifiche Moto3: 18:45-19:25
Qualifiche Moto2: 19:40-20:20
Sprint MotoGP: 21:00 (10 laps)
Sunday, March 29
Warm-Up MotoGP: 17:40-17:50
Gara Moto3: 19:00 (14 laps)
Gara Moto2: 20:15 (16 laps)
Gara MotoGP: 22:00 (19 laps)
How to Watch the Gran Premio delle Americhe
Fans can follow all the action from the Gran Premio delle Americhe through these broadcast options:
Sky Sport MotoGP HD (channel 208 on Sky) and Now: Complete, live coverage of all weekend sessions and races for MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3.
TV8 HD (channel 8 on digital terrestrial television): Live coverage of qualifying for all three classes and the MotoGP Sprint race on Saturday. Delayed coverage of the races for all three classes on Sunday (Moto3 at 20:15; Moto2 at 21:30; MotoGP at 23:00).
About the Circuit of the Americas
The Circuit of the Americas, a 5.5-kilometer (3.4-mile) track, is a modern racing facility completed in 2012. It first hosted a MotoGP race in 2013. The circuit is known for its significant elevation changes and a mix of prompt corners and long straights, including a lengthy uphill straight. Designed by Hermann Tilke, the track runs counter-clockwise and features more left-hand turns, a characteristic favored by many riders, including Marc Marquez.
The MotoGP race on Sunday will consist of 19 laps, while the Sprint race on Saturday will be 10 laps. Moto2 will complete 16 laps, and Moto3 will run 14 laps.
| Circuit Length | 5.5 km |
| Circuit Width | 15 meters |
| Corners | 20 corners (9 right, 11 left) |
| Longest Straight | 1.200 meters (back straight) |
The MotoGP paddock now heads to Austin with high expectations. The combination of a challenging circuit, the return of a familiar schedule, and the ongoing battle for championship supremacy promises a captivating weekend of racing. Fans can expect intense competition and thrilling action as the world’s best motorcycle racers vie for victory at the Gran Premio delle Americhe.
The next major checkpoint for the MotoGP World Championship will be the Gran Premio de España at the Jerez Circuit from May 3-5, 2026. Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of the 2026 MotoGP season.
What are your predictions for the Austin race? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Worth a look
