MotoGP in Austin: four bikes demo at the F1 United States GP
The newsroomUpdated on October 21, 20263 minPedrosa, Bulega, Dovizioso and Savadori ride four MotoGP bikes at COTA before F1 Free Practice 3 of the United States Grand Prix, Saturday at 11:40 local time.
Key point
Four MotoGP bikes will run for 20 minutes at COTA on Saturday at 11:40, before F1 Free Practice 3, ridden by Pedrosa, Bulega, Dovizioso and Savadori.
MotoGP is joining the F1 United States Grand Prix: four prototypes will run a demonstration at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin on Saturday at 11:40 local time. The session lasts 20 minutes and takes place before F1's third free practice session. It is an exhibition, not a race.
Four bikes, four manufacturers
The line-up mixes a former champion with three riders of different profiles:
- Dani Pedrosa on the KTM, a member of the MotoGP Hall of Fame;
- Nicolò Bulega on the Ducati, reigning WorldSBK champion and a MotoGP rider in 2027;
- Andrea Dovizioso on the Yamaha, a test rider;
- Lorenzo Savadori on the Aprilia, also a test rider.
According to Motorsport.com, the four machines represent the peak of motorcycle racing and exceed 130 decibels. Honda is missing from the demonstration: Soymotero reports that the manufacturer has rider availability problems linked to injuries and medical absences.
Why not the championship riders?
MotoGP's current stars are elsewhere. The championship is racing the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island at the same time. The Austin demonstration therefore runs in parallel with the official race, with test riders, a former champion and the reigning WorldSBK title holder.
A Liberty Media initiative
The demonstration is organised by Liberty Media, which owns both F1 and MotoGP. The motorcycle championship describes it as a major milestone for global motorsport. More than 400,000 spectators are expected over the weekend, according to Motorsport.com.
A MotoGP fan zone
Off the track, MotoGP runs a dedicated fan area all weekend, where the four bikes are on display. Riders are present from Thursday to Sunday. MotoGP CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta may attend, but this is not confirmed.
The real race returns in 2027
MotoGP will be back at COTA for a full Grand Prix from 23 to 25 April 2027. This weekend's demonstration serves as a showcase in front of a very large F1 crowd.
Key points
- 20-minute demonstration on Saturday at 11:40, before F1 Free Practice 3.
- Pedrosa (KTM), Bulega (Ducati), Dovizioso (Yamaha), Savadori (Aprilia).
- Honda absent; the championship riders are at Phillip Island.
- MotoGP returns to COTA from 23 to 25 April 2027.
Frequently asked questions
When is the MotoGP demonstration in Austin?
Saturday at 11:40 local time, for 20 minutes, before the third F1 free practice session.
Who rides the four MotoGP bikes at COTA?
Dani Pedrosa (KTM), Nicolò Bulega (Ducati), Andrea Dovizioso (Yamaha) and Lorenzo Savadori (Aprilia).
Are the current MotoGP riders there?
No: the championship is racing the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island at the same time.
When does MotoGP return to COTA for a real race?
From 23 to 25 April 2027 at the same Austin circuit.
Sources
- Motorsport.com — MotoGP demonstration at the F1 United States GP
- Soymotero — MotoGP and F1 share the track this weekend
Written by the Karrazmotorsport newsroom, proofread before publication. For settings, always refer to your vehicle's manual. Our charter.
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