Watch MotoGP San Marino Grand Prix — Free Practice 1 Free.

What's at Stake

The opening practice session at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli marks the beginning of a crucial weekend for the MotoGP championship battle. As the paddock arrives in San Marino, riders are desperate to find an immediate baseline setup on a high-grip surface where every fraction of a second impacts automatic entry into Q2. With the title race tightening, establishing early dominance on Friday morning is essential for building momentum and putting pressure on championship rivals.

Form Guide

Heading into Misano, the battle at the front of the grid has been characterized by intense consistency from the leading Ducati riders, who have dominated recent rounds. While the factory contenders have traded victories and podium finishes, the chasing pack has shown flashes of brilliant pace on high-traction circuits. This session will reveal who has adapted best to the unique demands of the Italian venue following recent European rounds.

Key Players to Watch

• Francesco Bagnaia — The Italian powerhouse considers Misano his home turf and will look to set the benchmark pace right from the opening laps of Practice 1.
• Jorge Martin — Known for his explosive speed and immediate adaptability, the Spaniard will aim to challenge for the top spot early to disrupt his rivals' rhythm.
• Marc Marquez — A master of finding grip in tricky conditions, his performance in the opening session will show if he has the package to fight for the front row this weekend.

Prediction

Expect Francesco Bagnaia to top the timesheets in this opening session, utilizing his extensive experience and data at the Misano circuit to find his rhythm quickly. Ducati is likely to lock out the top three positions early on, with Jorge Martin close behind as riders focus primarily on medium-tyre race simulations. This initial session will establish a clear advantage for the GP24 bikes ahead of the afternoon's crucial qualifying practice.