Moto2 - Catalunya

The Monster Energy Grand Prix of Catalunya brings Moto2 racing to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Montmeló, Spain. This premier motorcycle racing event features the intermediate class of FIM Grand Prix motorcycle racing. The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has hosted motorcycle Grand Prix events since 1992 and maintains a contract to host MotoGP events, including Moto2, through 2031.

Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya Overview

The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya opened on September 10, 1991. The track measures 4.657 kilometers in length and features 14 turns. Eight right-hand corners and six left-hand corners make up the circuit layout. The track width spans 12 meters, and the main straight extends 1,047 meters. This diverse layout includes long straights, fast corners, and elevation changes. Riders and teams consider it an "all-rounder" circuit that tests multiple aspects of machine performance and rider skill.

Turn 1, known as Elf, serves as a primary overtaking zone. Turn 3 challenges riders with high-speed entry. The Campsa Corner at Turn 9 presents a blind, high-speed challenge. The La Caixa hairpin at Turn 10 underwent remodeling in 2021 for improved safety. The circuit holds an FIA Grade 1 license and can accommodate approximately 140,700 spectators. Safety modifications have been implemented over the years, including track layout changes for motorcycle racing following a fatal Moto2 crash in 2016.

Moto2 Race Format

The Catalunya Moto2 race consists of 21 laps. This distance covers 97.8 kilometers in total. The race weekend includes two 40-minute free practice sessions. These sessions establish an initial ranking. The top fourteen riders advance directly to Qualifying 2. Riders ranked below fourteenth compete in Qualifying 1, where the four fastest riders move forward to Qualifying 2. Qualifying 2 determines the top eighteen grid positions. Riders must achieve a lap time within 110% of the fastest rider's time to qualify for the race.

Technical Specifications

Moto2 uses a spec-engine format. All teams use the same three-cylinder 765cc Triumph engine. This engine was introduced to the championship in 2019. Each rider receives seven engines for the season. Engine specifications remain frozen for most manufacturers, with limited exceptions for safety, reliability, or parts availability issues. Teams can develop their own chassis, which allows for variation in bike design and performance. All teams use a standardized electronic management system provided by the championship promoter.

Moto2 bikes produce approximately 140 horsepower. The bikes weigh 150 kilograms. Top speeds reach 295 kilometers per hour. The minimum combined weight for bike and rider is 217 kilograms. This spec-engine formula emphasizes rider talent and chassis development as the key factors in competitive performance.

Tire Specifications

Pirelli supplies all tires for Moto2. Riders can choose from soft SC1 and medium SC2 compounds for front tires. New standard soft SC0 and medium SC1 compounds are available for rear tires. These rear compounds were developed throughout 2025. The minimum rear tire pressure is set at 1.65 bar, which equals 24 PSI. Tire selection plays a crucial role in race strategy and performance at Catalunya.

Expected Participants

The Moto2 grid features talented riders from around the world. Izan Guevara and Alberto Ferrández are expected to ride for Blu Cru Pramac Yamaha Moto2. Arón Canet and Deniz Öncü represent Elf Marc VDS Racing Team. Celestino Vietti and Luca Lunetta ride for SpeedRS Team. David Alonso and Daniel Holgado are provisionally announced for CFMoto Aspar Team. Barry Baltus and Tony Arbolino represent Fantic Racing. The final participant list continues to take shape as the season approaches.

Circuit History and Heritage

The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya hosted its first international event in 1991 with the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix. Motorcycle Grand Prix racing arrived at the circuit in 1992 as the European Motorcycle Grand Prix. The event became the Catalan motorcycle Grand Prix in 1996 and has run annually since then. The circuit was originally conceived as a test track for the Spanish automotive industry. The Catalan government, Montmeló Town Council, and Royal Automobile Club of Catalunya collaborated to develop the facility. The International Road Racing Teams Association awarded the circuit the 'Best Grand Prix' trophy in 2001.

Notable Moto2 winners at Catalunya include Álex Márquez, who won in 2017 and 2019. Johann Zarco claimed victory in 2015 and 2016. Daniel Holgado secured his first Moto2 victory at the circuit in September 2025. The track has produced memorable racing moments throughout its history as a motorcycle racing venue.

Location and Accessibility

The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya sits approximately 25 kilometers north of Barcelona city center in the municipality of Montmeló. This location makes the circuit accessible for international visitors. The proximity to Barcelona provides easy transport connections. Many Spanish motorcycle racing stars consider this track a home venue. The circuit also benefits from favorable weather conditions, which has made it a popular location for pre-season testing. The balanced layout allows teams to evaluate multiple aspects of bike performance in a single location.

What Makes Catalunya Moto2 Special

The Catalunya Moto2 race offers fans close racing action on a demanding circuit. The track layout creates multiple overtaking opportunities. Riders must balance speed on the long main straight with precision through technical corners. The elevation changes add another layer of complexity. Weather conditions in Catalunya can vary, which sometimes adds strategic elements to tire selection and race management. The combination of high-speed sections and tight corners rewards complete riders who can excel in all areas. This variety in track characteristics produces competitive racing and often leads to battles throughout the field.

The Catalunya round represents an important test for all Moto2 competitors. The circuit's all-around nature means that success here indicates strong overall performance potential. Teams use this race to benchmark their development progress. For Spanish riders, competing at Catalunya carries additional significance as they race in front of home crowds. The atmosphere at the circuit reflects the strong motorcycle racing culture in Spain.