MotoGP Announces Major Race Direction Changes Ahead of 2026 Season

Graham Webber appointed new Race Director as championship prepares for 22-round calendar.

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The Permanent Bureau, comprising the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) and MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, has confirmed key leadership changes to MotoGP’s Race Direction structure for the 2026 season. Among the most significant updates is a change in the Race Director role.

Long-serving MotoGP Race Director Mike Webb will move into a newly created position as Race Direction Coordinator. The role has been introduced for 2026 as part of a broader restructuring aimed at strengthening operational oversight across all Grands Prix.

Replacing Webb as Race Director is Graham Webber, while Jack Gorst steps into the role of Deputy Race Director.

The trio will form a new-look leadership team overseeing Race Direction at all 22 rounds on the 2026 calendar. Their responsibilities extend across all Grand Prix classes and on-track competitions during MotoGP weekends, including the newly introduced Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup.

Experienced Team Remains in Place

The Race Direction structure will continue to include Bartolome Alfonso, who serves as the FIM representative and Safety Officer, alongside Loris Capirossi representing MotoGP SEG.

Meanwhile, Danny Aldridge remains in his role as Technical Director, ensuring regulatory consistency across the championship. The stewards’ panel will once again be led by former Grand Prix racer Simon Crafar.

2026 Season Set for Global Expansion

The 2026 MotoGP season begins from 27 February to 1 March at the Chang International Circuit in Thailand.

Round two will see the championship return to Brazil on 20–22 March at the Goiânia International Racetrack Ayrton Senna. While not new to MotoGP, having hosted races between 1987 and 1989, the circuit has undergone significant upgrades to meet modern MotoGP standards ahead of its calendar comeback.

Before racing officially gets underway, riders and teams will complete one final pre-season test this weekend at the Chang International Circuit, offering a last opportunity to fine-tune machinery ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 campaign.

With new leadership in Race Direction and an expanded global calendar, MotoGP enters 2026 with both structural evolution and renewed international momentum.