Let’s review the rider lineup for the MotoGP Japanese Grand Prix, which will take place at the Motegi circuit, marking the seventeenth round of the 2025 season.
In a standout performance, Pecco Bagnaia secured pole position in Japan, his first since July.
Allowing him to start the race from the front of the grid at Motegi this weekend.
Alongside him on the front row is a surprising Joan Mir, who achieved the second fastest time aboard his Honda, with Marc Márquez completing the starting trio.
The Spanish rider’s main objective is to score more points than his younger brother, Álex, in order to solidify his title fight this Sunday.
The second row of the grid is comprised of Frenchman Fabio Quartararo, who qualified fifth.
Alongside him are Pedro Acosta on his KTM and Franco Morbidelli on his VR46.
Behind them, Álex Márquez will start from eighth position, facing the challenge of preventing his brother from securing his ninth world championship in this race.
This is further complicated by the return of Marco Bezzecchi, who is in ninth position after failing to reach his expected performance at Misano, although his pace in Japan with Aprilia should not be underestimated.
On the fourth row, Johann Zarco occupies eleventh place, between Raúl Fernández and Fabio Di Giannantonio.
The action begins on Saturday at 8:00 a.m. with the Sprint race.
While the Japanese Grand Prix race will take place on Sunday at 7:00 a.m. as part of the MotoGP program.
Japan GP Starting Grid
1) Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati)
2) Joan Mir (Honda)
3) Marc Márquez (Ducati)
4) Pedro Acosta (KTM)
5) Fabio Quartararo (Yamaha)
6) Franco Morbidelli (Ducati VR46)
7) Luca Marini (Honda)
8) Alex Márquez (Gresini Ducati)
9) Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia)
10) Raúl Fernández (Trackhouse Aprilia)
11) Johann Zarco (LCR Honda)
12) Fabio Di Giannantonio (Ducati VR46)
13) Ai Ogura (Aprilia Trackhouse)
14) Jack Miller (Pramac Yamaha)
15) Fermín Aldeguer (Gresini Ducati)
16) Miguel Oliveira (Pramac Yamaha)
17) Jorge Martín (Aprilia)
18) Brad Binder (KTM)
19) Alex Rins (Yamaha)
20) Takaaki Nakagami (Honda)
21) Enea Bastianini (Tech3 KTM)
22) Chantra Somkiat (LCR Honda)
23) Maverick Viñales (Tech3 KTM)
Interesting Facts about the Japanese GP
The Motegi circuit is known for its technical layout and is a favorite among riders due to its challenging corners.
Bagnaia’s pole position marks a significant return for the Italian rider, who is looking to solidify his position in the title race.
Joan Mir, after his outstanding qualifying performance, demonstrates that he can be a serious contender aboard his Honda.
Marc Márquez, despite the pressure from his brother, continues to be a key rider in the fight for the championship.
Marco Bezzecchi, after a brilliant performance in Misano, is looking to redeem himself in Japan, making his presence crucial in the race.
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