The world’s premier motorcycle race, MotoGP™, will hold the Grand Prix of Japan over three days from October 2 (Fri) to 4 (Sun), 2026, at Mobility Resort Motegi.

The appeal of MotoGP™ is not just the speeds exceeding 350 km/h or the intense battles between Riders. You can enjoy the race throughout the three days, from Friday's practice sessions to Saturday's sprint and Sunday’s main race.

Inside the venue, there are plenty of attractions that even those unfamiliar with racing can enjoy, such as MotoGP™ Night Live / After Race Live, gourmet food, park attractions, the Honda Collection Hall, camping, and car stays.

For those wondering, "I've never watched a motorcycle race before, is that okay?" or "Can I enjoy it with my family?", we clearly introduce everything from the basics of the race, notable Riders, tickets, access, to how to spend the three days.

I want to know about the race!

1. What is "MotoGP™"?

   MotoGP™ is the world’s premier motorcycle road racing series, competing for the annual championship across various countries. The 2026 Grand Prix of Japan will be held as the 16th round at Mobility Resort Motegi. From October 2 (Fri) to 4 (Sun), top-class Riders from around the world will gather in Japan.
   
   In the premier MotoGP™ class, machines from Honda, YAMAHA, Ducati, Aprilia, and KTM compete. Prototype machines equipped with 1000cc four-stroke engines race at speeds well over 300 km/h.

   

2. Enjoy the 3 classes of MotoGP™, Moto2™, and Moto3™
   

   MotoGP™ consists of three classes: the premier MotoGP™ class, Moto2™, and Moto3™.
   
   Moto3™ is the gateway where young Riders challenge the world, Moto2™ is the intermediate class where Riders aiming for the MotoGP™ class compete, and at the top is the MotoGP™ class. Even on the same course, the sound of the machines, riding styles, and the way battles look differ by class. At first, don’t overthink it—just remember: “Moto3™ is a fierce battle among young Riders,” “Moto2™ is for next-generation star candidates,” and “MotoGP™ is the world’s highest level.”

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3. In 2026, there will also be a “race” on Saturday!
   Focus on the “Sprint”

   For those watching MotoGP™ for the first time, it’s important to know the flow of the weekend. On Friday, practice sessions for each class begin, and in the MotoGP™ class, machines are fine-tuned for Saturday’s qualifying and Sunday’s race. On Saturday, in addition to qualifying, the MotoGP™ class holds a short-distance race called the “Sprint.” Then on Sunday, the final races for Moto3™, Moto2™, and MotoGP™ take place.
   
   On Saturday, in addition to the qualifying sessions, a sprint race featuring intense position battles right from the start is also held. Because of this, you can fully enjoy the unique tension and excitement of racing even on Saturday alone. If you are watching for all three days, it is recommended to check the condition of the Riders and machines on Friday, grasp each competitor’s speed and the power dynamics during Saturday’s sprint, and then head into Sunday’s main race.

   

4. The “Sound” and “Braking” You Can Only Appreciate On Site Are Also Highlights
   

   Watching MotoGP™ live allows you to experience the powerful sound and speed that cannot be fully conveyed through video alone. Especially noticeable are the sound pressure and speed as the machines pass right in front of you, and the hard braking as they rapidly decelerate from the downhill straight into a 90-degree corner.
   
   Fans who have actually watched the MotoGP™ Grand Prix of Japan have often mentioned the "unique local sounds," the "intensity of full braking," and the "overall excitement of the venue." Even without knowing the complicated rules, simply experiencing this intensity is enough to fully enjoy the event.

   

5. For those who want to know more from a “fan’s perspective”

   From how to choose your seat, access, what to bring, to ways to enjoy beyond the race, the voices of fans who have actually watched the Grand Prix of Japan have been compiled in “Fans Answer! How to Enjoy Watching MotoGP™ Q&A.” Since you can check points that first-time viewers often worry about through the real voices of experienced fans, please take a look along with this guide. Fans Answer!
   How to Enjoy Watching MotoGP™ Q&A is here

   

Riders to Watch at the 2026 Grand Prix of Japan

The 2026 season features a tight title battle. After the 15th round at the Austrian GP, Marc Márquez trails the points leader Jorge Martín by 12 points, while third-place Marco Bezzecchi is 42 points behind the leader.

And the biggest highlight of the Grand Prix of Japan is the only Japanese Rider fully competing in the premier class, Ai Ogura. The 2026 season has become one where he battles head-on with the world’s best, including achieving his first MotoGP™ victory.

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  Ai Ogura
  SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP™ Team

  He is the Japanese Rider to watch most closely at the 2026 Grand Prix of Japan. He won the Moto2™ World Championship in 2024 and stepped up to MotoGP™ in 2025. After his rookie year, 2026 has seen him rapidly increase his presence on the world’s top stage. At the French GP, he achieved his first MotoGP™ podium with a 3rd place finish. Then, at the Czech GP, he secured pole position for the first time as a Japanese rider since 2020, finishing 2nd in the sprint and narrowly missing 1st place by just 0.4 seconds behind Marc Márquez in the race, again finishing 2nd. Finally, at the 10th round, the Dutch GP, he claimed his first MotoGP™ victory.

  The victory in the premier class by a Japanese Rider was a major achievement, the first in 22 years since Makoto Tamada in 2004. He missed the Aragon GP at the end of August and the following San Marino GP due to a left-hand injury, but upon returning at the Austria GP, he finished 4th in both the sprint and the main race, earning a total of 19 points. There is great anticipation about what kind of performance he will show at his home Grand Prix in Japan. Motegi is a course with which he has a good record, including a win in the Moto2™ class in 2022. Let’s cheer for Ogura, who will be competing at his home Grand Prix as a MotoGP™ class winner, on site.

  Rider Details

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  Jorge Martín
  Aprilia Racing

  Jorge Martín, the 2024 MotoGP™ World Champion and a central figure in the 2026 title race. He won both the sprint and the main race at the French GP, and also achieved strong results at the Austrian GP with pole position, sprint victory, and second place in the main race. As of the end of the 15th round, the Austrian GP, he leads the standings and heads into the Grand Prix of Japan aiming for his second world championship.

  Pay attention to his sharp riding style that aggressively swings the bike and his one-lap speed in qualifying.

  Rider Details

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  Marc Márquez
  Ducati Lenovo Team

  The 2025 MotoGP™ World Champion. A superstar representing MotoGP™ who secured the annual title at the Japanese GP as well. In 2026, after recovering from a mid-season injury, he swept both the Sprint and the main race at the 13th round, the Aragon GP. At the Austrian GP, he earned points with 2nd place in the Sprint and 5th place in the main race, currently sitting 2nd in the standings, 12 points behind the leader Jorge Martín.

  His intense braking and riding style that leans the machine to the very limit have a powerful impact that is easy to understand even for first-time viewers.

  Rider Details

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  Marco Bezzecchi
  Aprilia Racing

  He is one of the notable Riders competing for the 2026 title. In the early part of 2026, he showed overwhelming momentum, winning three consecutive Grand Prix from the season opener. At the Italian GP, he also achieved a historic victory at his home race in Mugello riding an Aprilia machine, an Italian manufacturer. At the 13th round, the Aragon GP, he secured pole position and finished 3rd in both the sprint and the main race. At the Austrian GP, he also stood on the podium in 3rd place for both the sprint and the main race. As of the end of the 15th round, he is ranked 3rd, 42 points behind the leader.

  The "Marco Bezzecchi Supporter Seat" will also make its debut at the 2026 F1 Japanese Grand Prix. He is a rider to watch for those who want to choose a favorite Rider and enjoy the race.

  Rider Details

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  Pedro Acosta
  Red Bull KTM Factory Racing

  One of the standout stars of the younger generation. His aggressive braking and fearless racing style of challenging the riders ahead are his main attractions.

  At the 13th round Aragon GP, he secured the second-place podium behind Marc Marquez. Furthermore, at the 15th round Austria GP, despite crashing near the end while leading the sprint, he took the lead in the following day’s race and held on to claim his first MotoGP™ class victory. He is currently one of the most promising young Riders, turning his aggressive approach and speed into results.

  Rider Details

1. Also pay attention to Japanese manufacturers' machines!

   In MotoGP™, it's recommended to enjoy not only the Riders but also the differences in machines by manufacturer.
   
   Top Riders from Japanese manufacturers also participate, such as Joan Mir from Honda HRC Castrol and Fabio Quartararo from Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™. Choosing your favorite based on the manufacturer you like or the brand of bike you usually ride is one way to enjoy watching for the first time.

   

2. Let's also support the Japanese riders in Moto2™ and Moto3™!
   

   At the Grand Prix of Japan, not only the MotoGP™ class but also the Japanese riders competing in Moto2™ and Moto3™ draw attention. In Moto2™, Taiyo Furusato, who was promoted to IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia from 2026, and Ayumu Sasaki, entering his third year in Moto2™, are competing. In Moto3™, Ryusei Yamanaka and 19-year-old Zen Mitani, who will be a full-time rider from 2026, are battling against the world.
   
   One of the highlights of the Grand Prix of Japan is seeing young Riders aiming for the top class MotoGP™ and growing. Please be sure to pay attention not only to the MotoGP™ final but also to Moto2™ and Moto3™.

   

Want to enjoy more than just the race!

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  MotoGP™ Night Live／
  After Race Live

  A popular event that livens up the nights of the Grand Prix of Japan is "MotoGP™ Night Live." On Friday and Saturday, MotoGP™ Riders who have finished their sessions appear, allowing fans to enjoy talks that are rarely heard. Additionally, in 2026, music live performances by popular artists such as Juice=Juice, SWEET STEADY, and MORE STAR will be held.

  Furthermore, this year, the "After Race Live" will also be held after the Sunday MotoGP™ class final race. Kariyushi 58 will perform, wrapping up the three-day Grand Prix of Japan with music as well. Admission is free with a MotoGP™ ticket. The charm of the Grand Prix of Japan is that you can enjoy it until night instead of leaving immediately after the race ends.

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  If you want to immerse yourself in MotoGP™ until night
  “Over Night Square”

  “Over Night Square” is also held, where you can enjoy the race until night with MotoGP™ fans gathered from all over the country while camping or sleeping in your car. In 2026, it will be held on October 2 (Fri) and 3 (Sat) from 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at the N5 parking lot. You can enjoy local gourmet food and drinks, a talk stage featuring special guests such as rider Takaaki Nakagami, and musical performances, all while building excitement for the next day’s race.

  Recommended for those who want to enjoy three days like an overseas Grand Prix, with "racing during the day and fans chatting with each other at night."

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  If you have an eligible pass,
  head to the "HERO WALK"

  The "HERO WALK" is an exclusive event for those with Paddock Passes or certain suite users. It’s a popular event where you can feel the presence of Riders competing on the world stage up close.

  It is a valuable opportunity to see the expressions of the Riders up close, which can only be seen through their helmets during the race. Those who have purchased the eligible tickets should be sure to check the date and time of the event.

  Learn more

MotoGP™ Grand Prix of Japan
Recommended ways to spend the 3 days

You don’t have to attend all three days to enjoy the event. Saturday features qualifying and the sprint, and Sunday has the finals for each class, so you can experience the excitement of MotoGP™ even if you only come for one day.

On the other hand, if you participate for all three days, you can fully experience the “story” of getting to know the condition of the Riders and machines on Friday, enjoying the battles in Saturday’s sprint, and reaching the climax in Sunday’s finals. In 2026, when all tickets include a 3-day park passport, it’s also recommended to relax and enjoy attractions and gourmet food with your family between races.

1. October 2 (Fri)
   First, get familiar with the venue and step into the world of MotoGP™

   Morning to noon｜Arrive early and take a walk around the venue
   
   Friday is the first day when each class begins running. Compared to the weekend, it’s easier to move around the venue, so if it’s your first time, we recommend checking the routes to the spectator seats, restrooms, food stalls, and the park. While watching the sessions, try to find your favorite-sounding machine and riders you’re interested in; this will make watching on Saturday and Sunday much easier to follow.

2. Afternoon｜Practice + Park + Honda Collection Hall
   
   All tickets include a 3-day park passport, so during breaks between sessions, head to the park attractions. Even if you are with family members who are not familiar with the races, everyone can enjoy their preferred activities. For those who want to relax a bit, visit the Honda Collection Hall. In addition to historic motorcycles and cars, you can also enjoy the Grand Prix of Japan commemorative exhibition "Two Passions, One Dream—Honda and Yamaha’s respective WGP challenges." This Part 1 features WGP racers representing both companies from the 1960s as well as MotoGP™ champion machines. You can trace Honda and Yamaha’s journey to the top of the world using different technologies by comparing the actual machines on display.
   
   Additionally, during the event period, the "Honda Sound Demonstration ~Engine Start Performance~" will also be held. You can experience up close the engine sounds of historic racing machines such as the RC181, NSR500, NSR500V, and RC213V. Please check the official information for the event times before heading there.

   

3. Evening to Night｜MotoGP™ Night Live → Over Night Square
   
   After the sessions end, head to the Moto Stage at the central entrance. At MotoGP™ Night Live, you can enjoy rider talks and live music performances. Additionally, those staying overnight inside the venue can go to Over Night Square. Enjoy gourmet food and music while fans gather to talk about the next day’s sprint—a unique night experience only at the Grand Prix of Japan.

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4. October 3 (Sat)
   Qualifying + Sprint! Not just the day before the final, Saturday is also the main event

   Morning｜MotoGP™ Official Qualifying
   
   On Saturday morning, the official qualifying session that determines the starting grid for the MotoGP™ class takes place. Since riders compete for the best time within a limited time and number of laps, the tension is different from the race. If it’s your first time, just check from which position rider Ai Ogura or any rider you’re interested in will start.

   

5. Noon｜Lunch & Take a Break at the Park
   
   Make sure to take a good rest before the sprint. In addition to enjoying the gourmet food on site, we also recommend participating in the “Become a Racer GP” at the park (reservation required) to experience the feeling of being a racer. Enjoy at your family’s pace together with your children.

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6. Afternoon｜Sprint
   
   The biggest highlight on Saturday is the MotoGP™ sprint. Since it is contested over a shorter distance than Sunday’s main race, many Riders aggressively attack from the start, making it impossible to take your eyes off from the very beginning to the end. Even those who want to watch MotoGP™ for just one day can enjoy both qualifying and the race on Saturday.

   

7. Night｜Get Even More Excited with Night Live and Over Night Square
   
   Even after the sprint ends, the day is not over yet. After enjoying MotoGP™ Night Live, if you are staying on-site, head to Over Night Square. Enjoy the “race night” experience that only a three-day stay can offer, including impressions of the Riders you saw on Friday, the results of Saturday’s sprint, and predictions for the winner the next day.

   

8. October 4 (Sun)
   Finale with the finals of 3 classes and After Race Live

   Morning｜Enjoy the atmosphere of the final day from the warm-up
   
   Sunday is the final day. While watching the MotoGP™ class warm-up in the morning, check the condition of the Riders you are interested in. Even if you are only watching on Sunday, arriving early to familiarize yourself with the layout of the venue will help you enjoy the rest of the day smoothly.
   
   Check out the "Moto Racer Fastest King Deciding Battle! ~Dream Competition 2026~" during the time before and after the races (※Entries accepted until 3 PM each day). You can enjoy the time attack held at the park's bike attraction "Moto Racer" along with the final races.

9. Morning to Afternoon｜Moto3™ & Moto2™ Finals
   
   The finals for Moto3™ and Moto2™ are also on this day. While cheering for the Japanese Riders, enjoy the intense battles among young talents who are on the path to MotoGP™. By watching all three classes instead of just MotoGP™, you can also understand the differences in bike sounds and race developments.

   

10. Afternoon｜Finally, the MotoGP™ Race
    
    The climax of the three days. The top-class Riders will battle for victory at the Grand Prix of Japan. If you have been watching since Friday, you will start to see a story in each Rider’s performance, such as “This Rider was fast from Friday” or “This is how they were in the Sprint.” Even if it’s your first time watching MotoGP™, after three days you might naturally find a favorite.

    

11. After the Final｜Enjoy Until After Race Live Before Heading Home
    
    In 2026, the "MotoGP™ After Race Live" will be held after the MotoGP™ final race. The three days of the Grand Prix of Japan will be wrapped up with a live performance by Kariyushi 58. As an option to avoid crowding at the exit immediately after the final, we recommend enjoying the live show and on-site content before heading home.

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Which ticket should I buy?

The 2026 MotoGP™ Grand Prix of Japan tickets all include a 3-day park passport. Whether you come with someone who wants to watch the race closely or a family that also wants to enjoy the attractions, it’s easy to combine each person’s preferred way to spend their time. Here, we introduce recommended tickets based on different viewing styles.

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  If you are 16 to 23 years old,
  check out the "16-23 ZERO Yen Pass"!

  Eligible individuals aged 16 to 23 can apply for the "16-23 ZERO Yen Pass" to enjoy the MotoGP™ Grand Prix of Japan for free. In 2026, this includes 3 days of general admission tickets and 3 days of park passports, plus exclusive experience programs limited to the 16-23 ZERO Yen Pass such as paddock tours and grid & paddock tours.
  
  Additionally, the shuttle bus from "Haga Town Industrial Complex Management Center Front" to Mobility Resort Motegi is also free with advance reservation and limited availability. This pass is highly recommended for those going to see MotoGP™ for the first time with friends.

  Target	Those born between October 5, 2002, and April 1, 2011
  Application Period	Sunday, May 10, 2026, 11:00 a.m. – Sunday, October 4, 2026

  Learn more

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  PICKUP!
  If it’s your first time at MotoGP™
  “General Admission Ticket”

  For first-time spectators who want to “experience the atmosphere of MotoGP™ first,” the general admission ticket is recommended. You can move between multiple general admission viewing areas such as 130R, the downhill straight, and the V-corner, enjoying the different sounds and speeds of the machines depending on the location. Valid for three days from Friday through Sunday, it also includes a 3-day park passport. It’s also recommended for those who want to enjoy the park and gourmet food during breaks from watching the race.

  Learn more

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  PICKUP!
  If you want to enjoy the start, pits, and podium
  "V Seats"

  If you want to fully enjoy the classic MotoGP™ experience, V Seats are recommended. From the final corner to Turn 1, the Grandstand offers views of the large pack right after the start, the speed on the home straight, braking at Turn 1, the pits, and the podium—iconic scenes that symbolize the Grand Prix of Japan.

  Since the view differs between V1 and V6, choose according to the scenes you want to see, such as "wanting to watch the battle at Turn 1" or "wanting to see the pits and podium." Near the V seats, there is also a Hospitality Garden, which is a nice point for beginners as it makes it easy to eat and take breaks.

  Learn more

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  NEW!
  Enjoy with family and friends in “your own space”
  "Victory Corner Deck"

  A new group viewing area introduced in 2026. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the flow of machines from the high-speed section to Victory Corner from a location closer to the course than before. It features a dedicated lawn area and circuit vision, and is a 3-day pass for up to 5 people.

  The section has tables and chairs, and you can also bring your own tents and BBQ equipment. Since overnight stays for two nights are available from October 2 (Fri), it is also recommended for families and groups who want to enjoy "race watching + camping" all together.

  Learn more

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  NEW!
  Enjoy Turn 5 from the Front
  "T5 (Turn Five) Deck"

  A newly introduced deck site outside Turn 5. You can watch the MotoGP™ machines diving into Turn 5 from the front, with a large screen installed right in front of you. There is a dedicated parking lot very close to the deck, making it easy to carry large tents and BBQ equipment.

  With a spacious lawn area to relax in, this is recommended for groups who want to enjoy both the thrill of the race and the outdoors. Accommodation for 2 nights is also available from October 2 (Fri).

  Learn more

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  If you have a favorite,
  cheer them on from the "Fan Seat"!

  For those who have a favorite manufacturer or Rider, the fan seats within the V seats are also recommended.

  In addition to the Honda, YAMAHA, Ducati, and Marc Marquez support seats, new support seats will be introduced in 2026 for IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia, Marco Bezzecchi, Alex Marquez, and Ryusei Yamanaka. Wearing original goods and watching together with fans supporting the same Rider creates a sense of unity, which is one of the joys of the Grand Prix of Japan.

  Learn more

How do I get there?

Since the MotoGP™ Grand Prix of Japan attracts many visitors, it is important to decide on your access method in advance.

In 2026, new options such as LRT Smart Access, park-and-ride using off-site parking lots, and the Motegi GP Express Mito service will be available. Especially after the Sunday final, roads tend to get congested, so be sure to plan not only your trip "to" the venue but also your return.

1. PICKUP!
   We highly recommend the "LRT Smart Access" in 2026!

   

   If you are coming from the direction of Utsunomiya Station by public transportation, the newly introduced "LRT Smart Access" in 2026 is convenient.
   
   From the east exit of JR Utsunomiya Station, take the Haga-Utsunomiya LRT (Lightline) and in about 40 minutes arrive at "In front of Haga Town Industrial Park Management Center." From there, transfer to the dedicated bus "Motegi GP Express Haga" and head to Mobility Resort Motegi in about 30 minutes. A major advantage is that you can avoid road congestion around Utsunomiya Station while traveling. In 2026, the Lightline will also operate with special MotoGP™ livery. Click here for details

2. If you are coming by car, the new "Park and Ride" is also available

   

   For those coming by car on Saturday and Sunday, the "Park and Ride" service, which takes you from an off-site parking lot to the venue by free shuttle bus, is also recommended.
   
   Park your car at the Honda Motor Co., Ltd. external parking lot about 30 minutes from Moka IC, then take the free shuttle bus to Mobility Resort Motegi. Overnight stays in your car are also possible in the parking lot on Saturday night. Since you do not enter the venue area by private car, this is recommended for those who want to travel by car but wish to avoid some of the congestion around the circuit. Click here for details

3. Direct from Major Stations: "Motegi GP Express"

   

   A reserved-seat direct bus service, "Motegi GP Express," is also available. In 2026, in addition to Haga, Utsunomiya, Motegi, Tsukuba, Tokyo, and Shinjuku, a new direct route from Mito will be introduced. Regular route buses are also available from JR Mito Station. If you prefer to travel without driving, consider using the reserved direct bus service. Click here for details

4. If you are going directly by car,
   be sure to check the detour map

   If you are coming directly by private car, be sure to check the recommended route and entrance gate in advance according to the interchange you will use. The official access page provides recommended routes from Mito IC, Mito Kita Smart IC, Yaita IC, Tomobe IC, and Moka IC, as well as a detour map.
   
   Since many people tend to leave immediately after the final race, it is reassuring to plan your way home in advance by enjoying After Race Live and on-site content to stagger your departure time, and by checking detour routes beforehand. Click here for details (PDF)