The San Marino and Rimini Riviera Grand Prix is part of the FIM motorcycle racing season. Although named after San Marino, it has always been held in Italy, at Misano, since an Italian GP already exists.The race will stay at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli until at least 2026.
About the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli
The Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli is a racetrack near Rimini in Italy.Built in the 1970s, it has hosted MotoGP and Superbike events and was modernized in 2007.Renamed in 2012 after rider Marco Simoncelli, it’s known for its technical layout and passionate fans.
Race details
- Event: San Marino and Rimini Riviera Motorcycle Grand Prix
- Circuit: Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, Misano Adriatico, Italy
- Track Length: 4.2 km (2.63 miles)
- Number of Laps (MotoGP): 27 (total distance about 114 km)
- Contract: Scheduled at Misano until at least 2026
What Happened Last Year (2024)
The weather was not in ideal condition last year.Motorist faced rain making them change to wet tires to avoid slipping,but the rain stopped shortly after which turned against the riders.
As you might have figured out, this is a make or break situation as the racers had to pit frequently because of the gamble.That forced some (like Martín) to pit again to switch back.
Marc Márquez managed those changing conditions best. He stayed out initially when others pitted, then overtook Francesco Bagnaia and held on to win. It was his second consecutive win in the championship.
San Marino GP Records / Past Winners
- Most wins overall: Marc Márquez – 7 (1 in 125cc, 2 in Moto2, 4 in MotoGP)
- Most MotoGP wins: Jorge Lorenzo – 3 (2011, 2012, 2013)
- Most wins across all classes at Misano: Still Marc Márquez (7)
Last 5 year Winners
| 2020 | Franco Morbidelli |
|---|---|
| 2021 | Francesco Bagnaia |
| 2022 | Francesco Bagnaia |
| 2023 | Jorge Martín |
| 2024 | Marc Márquez |
Home Heroes at Misano
- Valentino Rossi – The local legend, with 3 Misano wins (2008, 2009, 2014).
- Marco Simoncelli – Misano was renamed in his honour in 2012 after his tragic death; though he never won here in MotoGP, the track is forever tied to his legacy.
- Francesco Bagnaia – Ducati’s star, with back-to-back victories in 2021 and 2022.
- Enea Bastianini & Marco Bezzecchi – Both from the Emilia-Romagna region, consistent contenders and crowd favourites.
Championship Context Going In
Marc Márquez dominates the 2025 MotoGP standings with 487 points, boasting 10 wins and 13 podiums. His brother Álex Márquez follows in second with 305 points, while Francesco Bagnaia sits third on 237, narrowly ahead of Marco Bezzecchi at 197 and rookie Pedro Acosta with 183.
The title picture looks heavily tilted in Marc’s favour, but battles for the remaining podium spots remain tight. Bagnaia and Bezzecchi will be pushing to climb higher, while Acosta continues to impress in his debut season. Every result now carries weight in shaping the final order.
Key Riders to Watch / Favourites
- Francesco Bagnaia – Local hero, two-time Misano winner (2021 & 2022), strong support from Ducati fans.
- Jorge Martín – Championship leader going in, but under pressure from Bagnaia with only a few points gap.
- Marc Márquez – Experienced and in top form; thrives in tricky conditions and proved it again with his 2024 win.
- Enea Bastianini & Marco Bezzecchi – Both Italians, fan favourites at Misano, capable of springing a podium surprise.
Technical Factors & Strategy
Misano’s 4.2 km track features 16 corners that test braking precision, acceleration, and tyre management. The abrasive surface makes compound choice crucial, with riders needing to balance grip with durability. Sudden September showers can flip conditions instantly, adding another layer of risk.
Strategy often decides the outcome here. Flag-to-flag scenarios demand quick bike swaps, while heavy braking zones create overtaking chances but punish errors. At Misano, adaptability under pressure matters just as much as raw speed.
San Marino GP – Where to Watch & Race Times
- Italy – Sky Sport MotoGP / TV8, 14:00 CEST
- Spain – DAZN, 14:00 CEST
- United Kingdom – TNT Sports, 13:00 BST
- United States – NBC Sports / Peacock, 08:00 ET / 05:00 PT
- India – JioCinema / Sports18, 17:30 IST
What to Expect
The San Marino GP promises a tense fight between Martín, Bagnaia, and Márquez, with home favourites like Bastianini and Bezzecchi pushing hard. Tyre wear, strategy, and unpredictable weather could play a decisive role, ensuring plenty of drama at Misano.
Conclusion
The San Marino GP this year we can see the top contenders battling for the title.This season will yet again challenge the technical aspects from braking pressure to overtakes.It will be interesting to see what racers will do this time if they encounter wet conditions
Written by: Hubaish
