MotoGP: Bezzecchi Wins Thailand Grand Prix, Ducati’s Race Podium Streak Ends

Aprilia’s star won Round 1 in Buriram, beating Acosta and Fernandez, while a rear tyre puncture denied the reigning World Champion a podium.

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Marco Bezzecchi delivered a statement victory at the season-opening Thai Grand Prix, dominating a dramatic race at the Chang International Circuit to secure Round 1 glory for Aprilia Racing.

The Italian controlled proceedings in challenging conditions to claim his third consecutive MotoGP Grand Prix victory, following wins in Portugal and Valencia last season, marking the first time an Aprilia rider has achieved a three-race winning streak in the premier class.

Tissot Sprint winner Pedro Acosta continued his impressive rise by finishing second for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing. The result ensures Acosta leaves Thailand as the early MotoGP World Championship leader, further cementing his status as one of the riders to watch in 2026. Completing the podium was Raúl Fernández, who gave Trackhouse Racing a strong start to the season with third place.

The biggest twist of the race came when reigning World Champion Marc Márquez suffered a rear tyre puncture while battling inside the podium positions. The incident forced the Ducati rider out of contention and ended what had looked like a promising defence of his title.

The result also brought an end to Ducati’s remarkable record of 88 consecutive Grand Prix podium finishes, the first time since the 2021 British GP that no Ducati rider stood on the Sunday rostrum.

Then, last year’s runner-up was also out! Alex Marquez had a nasty tumble at the speedy Turn 4. Good news, though, the rider was up and walking, but that was a disappointing end to the weekend for the Gresini Racing star.

The drama continued when Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) had to pull out of the Grand Prix because of rear tyre issues. This was right after the 2020 World Champion had been putting together a super strong race in the top six. Suddenly, we had four Aprilias in the top five, with Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) really picking up the pace late on. That was a seriously historic moment snapped up in Buriram.

While Aprilia celebrated, Yamaha continued to face difficulties at the back of the field. Despite off-season development efforts, the pace deficit remains evident, particularly in race trim.

Tyre and Weather Challenges

Hot and demanding conditions at Buriram added another layer of unpredictability. Tyre management proved crucial, with several riders struggling for grip as track temperatures fluctuated throughout the race. Bezzecchi, however, managed the situation perfectly, combining controlled aggression with consistent pace. This is definitely an encouraging Signs for Aprilia

It wasn’t just Bezzecchi shining for Aprilia. Jorge Martín showed steady progress throughout the weekend, underlining the potential of the RS-GP package in 2026. With strong pace across varying conditions and multiple riders in the mix, the Aprilia machine is quickly becoming one of the standout bikes on the grid.

From punctures and broken streaks to rising stars and historic milestones, the Thai Grand Prix delivered early fireworks. Bezzecchi leaves Buriram as the man in form. Acosta leaves as championship leader. Ducati leaves without a podium for the first time in 88 races. And if Round 1 is anything to go by, the 2026 MotoGP season is set to be anything but predictable.