Official: 2026 MotoGP test dates announced for final 1000cc bike season

The 2026 MotoGP pre-season tests will take place in Malaysia and Thailand again, with action beginning at the end of January with the Sepang shakedown ahead of the final year of the 1000cc era.

Next year marks a significant season for MotoGP, as it bids farewell to the current formula of 1000cc bike first introduced for the 2012 campaign, with a shift to 850cc machinery coming for 2027. 

It will also be the final year of Michelin as sole tyre supplier, with Pirelli taking over that role from 2027. 

Testing for the 2026 campaign will begin with the Sepang shakedown on 29-31 January. 

This three-day test is open to test riders, rookies and those riding for concession manufacturers (Yamaha and Honda). 

This will be followed by the first official pre-season test on 3-5 February at Sepang, open to all riders and teams. 

Though a traditional spot for pre-season testing, Sepang's dates were all but confirmed last week when MotoGP announced its second official season launch will take place in nearby Kuala Lumpur on 6-7 February. 

After that, the paddock will head to Buriram in Thailand for two final days of testing on 21-22 of February. 

The 2026 season will then begin on 27 February to 1 March with the Thai Grand Prix, which will kick off another 22-round schedule. 

The first glimpse of 2026 machinery and rider changes will be had on the Tuesday following this November's Valencia Grand Prix. 

2026 MotoGP pre-season test dates

SHAKEDOWN TEST: 29-31 January
SEPANG TEST: 3-5 February
SEASON LAUNCH: 6-7 February
BURIRAM TEST: 21-22 February