MotoGP will make a triumphant return to Brazil this weekend for the first time in more than two decades. The last time the premier class visited Brazil was in 2004 at the Jacarepagua circuit. Previous attempts to bring MotoGP back to Brazil were unsuccessful until around 16 months ago when a five-year agreement was reached with Brazil Motorsport to hold the race at the Autodromo Internacional de Goiania, a circuit that hosted the Brazilian Grand Prix in the late 1980s. The Goiania circuit has undergone significant upgrades, including resurfacing the track and modernizing facilities, to meet the strict standards required by the FIM for MotoGP races.
The circuit, located in the State of Goias, is 3.835km long and features 14 corners, with a mix of right and left-hand turns. This layout has led to some describing it as an ‘anti-Marquez’ circuit due to Marc Marquez’s preference for left-hand corners. This unique track layout poses challenges for riders, especially with the cold left side tires when approaching certain turns. The return of MotoGP to Brazil coincides with the debut of LCR Honda’s Diogo Moreira, the first Brazilian rider in the premier class since Alex Barros.
Moreira made a promising start to his MotoGP career with a 13th place finish in the season-opening race in Thailand. Veteran rider Franco Morbidelli, who has Brazilian roots, also adds to the Brazilian presence in the championship. The Brazilian Grand Prix is expected to feature a full grid of 22 riders, with KTM’s Pedro Acosta leading the championship standings. Ducati riders have struggled so far this season, with Aprilia and KTM riders dominating the top positions. The excitement of MotoGP’s return to Brazil, combined with the new talent and competitive field, sets the stage for an action-packed race weekend.
