Watch Indonesian MotoGP — Qualifying Free.

What's at Stake

As the MotoGP paddock descends on the Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit, securing a front-row start is paramount for the championship contenders. With the title race entering its critical flyaway phase, qualifying on the front row is essential to avoid the chaotic midfield and manage tire wear in the intense Indonesian heat. On this fast and flowing layout, starting position often dictates the strategy for both the Sprint and the main Grand Prix.

Form Guide

Recent rounds have seen a fierce battle at the top of the standings, with the leading factory riders trading victories and pole positions. The high-speed sweeps of Mandalika demand a perfect balance of aerodynamic stability and rear-wheel traction, favoring manufacturers that have shown strong single-lap pace in recent hot-weather events. Momentum is key as riders look to master the dusty track conditions that typically characterize the opening sessions of the weekend.

Key Players to Watch

• Jorge Martín — The Spanish rider has consistently proven to be the benchmark in pure qualifying speed, utilizing his aggressive style to extract maximum grip from the soft rear tire.
• Francesco Bagnaia — The reigning world champion excels at refining his setup over the weekend, making him a formidable threat to snatch pole position in the final seconds of Q2.
• Enea Bastianini — Known for his incredible late-race pace, his ability to secure a strong grid position during Saturday's shootout will be critical to his chances of fighting for the victory.

Prediction

Jorge Martín is predicted to claim pole position in a fiercely contested Q2 session, narrowly edging out Francesco Bagnaia. Martín's explosive single-lap pace and comfort on low-grip surfaces give him the slight advantage needed to master the challenging Mandalika circuit. Expect the front row to be separated by less than a tenth of a second as track conditions peak during the final minutes.