MotoGP 2026 launch venue changed as Dorna opts for new plans

Despite having informed the teams weeks ago that Singapore had been chosen as the venue for the presentation of next season’s MotoGP world championship, series promoter Dorna has decided to relocate the event to Kuala Lumpur.

On the Monday following the Catalan Grand Prix, teams met in Montmelo with members of the organisation, who confirmed that the season launch would take place in Singapore - a format first introduced this year in Bangkok, which was well received by both teams and fans.

Several team coordination departments had already begun preparing the trip from Sepang, where the first pre-season test of 2026 will be held in early February, to Singapore - a journey of around four hours by road.

However, logistical and operational issues have prompted Dorna to change course and opt for a more conservative solution: the event will now take place in Kuala Lumpur, less than an hour from the Sepang circuit where testing will be held.

The scheduled dates remain unchanged, with activities planned for the evening of 6 February and throughout 7 February. This gives teams plenty of time between the conclusion of testing on 5 February and the first activities of the launch event.

The IRTA (International Road-Racing Teams Association), which represents all the structures involved in the championship, confirmed the change over the weekend, noting that the move will simplify things for everyone involved.

Johann Zarco, Team LCR Honda

Photo by: Dorna

The Malaysian capital is also a frequent choice for both teams and sponsors when it comes to hosting events. In fact, Yamaha previously unveiled its revamped MotoGP project from the terrace of a luxury hotel in the city, with the iconic Petronas Towers as a backdrop.

With this final adjustment, the winter calendar is now fully set. It will kick off in Sepang with the shakedown - reserved for test riders and rookies in the premier class - from 29 to 31 January. The official test will follow on 3-5 February, ahead of the gala.

The second round of testing is scheduled for 21-22 February (Saturday and Sunday) at the Buriram circuit in Thailand, where the championship will get underway the following week (1 March). This tight schedule will make it nearly impossible for any modifications to the prototypes to be implemented in time for the opening race.