The all-time MotoGP Sprint winners' list after Qatar

Marc Marquez's 25th Sprint victory in Qatar on Saturday evening also sets up a title chance in Sunday's grand prix.

The reigning champion had been trailing Marco Bezzecchi at the original start, but got the better of the Aprilia rider into turn one on the restart. 

The pair then dramatically collided when Bezzecchi attempted to take advantage of Marquez running wide several laps later, leaving the Italian on the ground.

Marquez then fended off a surprise challenge from Bezzecchi's injured Aprilia team-mate Jorge Martin, who later lost the runner-up spot to Fabio di Giannantonio.

11 riders have won a MotoGP Sprint since the half-distance races were introduced on the Saturday afternoon of each grand prix weekend at the start of 2023.

Since then, three riders - Jorge Martin, Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia - have stood head and shoulders above the rest.

Bagnaia was world champion in 2023, Martin in 2024 and Marquez in 2025.

Red Bull KTM's Pedro Acosta (Buriram) and then Fernandez (Mugello) have won their first Sprint races this season.

Although Sprints do not count as official Grand Prix wins, 'half points' are awarded: 12 points for victory, 9 points for second place, 7 points for third, down to 1 point for ninth place.

• The full list of premier class grand prix winners.