Watch MotoGP San Marino Grand Prix — Practice 1 Free.

What's at Stake

The San Marino Grand Prix at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli marks a crucial juncture in the MotoGP World Championship as the European leg of the season begins to wind down. With the title race intensifying, securing a strong start in Practice 1 is vital for riders looking to establish their baseline setup and secure a direct route into the crucial Q2 qualifying session. For the Italian manufacturers and riders, this home round carries immense prestige and the added pressure of performing in front of a passionate local crowd.

Form Guide

Heading into Misano, the battle at the front of the grid remains highly competitive, with Ducati continuing to set the benchmark for pace and consistency. Recent rounds have seen a tight tactical battle between the leading factory riders and the top satellite contenders, who have frequently traded podium finishes. Momentum is key at this technical, high-grip circuit, where previous success and precise braking stability often dictate who can find their rhythm early in the weekend.

Key Players to Watch

• Francesco Bagnaia — The reigning champion always carries immense speed at his home track and will look to assert his dominance from the very first run.
• Jorge Martín — Known for his explosive single-lap pace, the Spanish rider will be aiming to disrupt the local favorites and establish an early psychological advantage.
• Marc Márquez — A master of adapting to changing track conditions, his ability to quickly find the limit makes him a constant threat during the opening sessions.

Prediction

Expect Ducati to dominate the top of the timesheets during this opening session, utilizing their extensive data and familiarity with the Misano layout. Francesco Bagnaia is predicted to top the Practice 1 standings, narrowly edging out Jorge Martín as the riders focus on evaluating medium tire compounds. The session will likely see incredibly tight margins, with less than half a second separating the top ten riders by the checkered flag.