Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna

The Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna in Goiânia, Brazil hosts a Moto3 Grand Prix as part of the FIM Moto3 World Championship. This event marks the return of Grand Prix motorcycle racing to Brazil after more than two decades. The circuit welcomes international riders and teams for a complete race weekend that includes practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and the main Moto3 race.

The Circuit

The Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna opened in 1974 and bears the name of Brazil's legendary Formula 1 champion. The track underwent significant upgrades before hosting Grand Prix racing again. Workers resurfaced the entire circuit and installed new kerbs. They expanded run-off areas to improve safety for riders. The pit lane, paddock, medical center, and race control facilities received updates to meet FIM standards for Grand Prix competition.

The circuit measures 3.835 kilometers in length. It features 15 turns that combine 10 right-hand corners and 5 left-hand corners. Fast straights connect with technical sections to create a challenging layout. The pole position starts from the left side of the track. Joel Esteban set the Moto3 lap record at this circuit with a time of 1'26.241 on a LEVEL UP - MTA KTM.

Moto3 Competition

The Moto3 race at Autodromo Internacional Ayrton Senna features young riders who compete in the entry-level category of the FIM MotoGP World Championship. The race saw drama unfold with a red flag situation. Máximo Quiles from CFMoto Aspar Team took victory and claimed the championship lead. His teammate Marco Morelli finished second, separated by just 0.143 seconds after a five-lap restart. Indonesian rookie Veda Pratama earned a podium finish, becoming Indonesia's first Grand Prix podium finisher in only his second Grand Prix.

Polesitter Joel Esteban from LevelUp – MTA crashed out after a highside incident. Championship leader David Almansa also failed to finish after crashing. These incidents demonstrate the demanding nature of Moto3 racing where mistakes can end a rider's race instantly.

The 2026 Grid

The Moto3 grid includes riders from multiple teams and manufacturers. CFMoto Aspar Team fields Máximo Quiles and Marco Morelli on KTM machinery. Honda Team Asia runs Veda Pratama and Zen Mitani. Leopard Racing includes Adrián Fernández and Guido Pini. Rivacold Snipers Team has Nicola Carraro and Jesús Ríos. Sic58 Squadra Corse features Leo Rammerstorfer and Casey O'Gorman.

LevelUp – MTA runs Matteo Bertelle and Joel Esteban. CIP Green Power fields Adrián Cruces and Scott Ogden. Code Motorsports has Cormac Buchanan and Ruché Moodley. Frinsa – MT Helmets – MSi includes Ryusei Yamanaka and Hakim Danish. Gryd – MLav Racing runs Eddie O'Shea on Honda equipment.

Technical Specifications

Moto3 motorcycles use 250cc four-stroke, single-cylinder engines. The bikes are lightweight and agile. KTM, Honda, GasGas, and Husqvarna provide the competing machinery. Strict technical regulations control costs and ensure balanced performance across all entries. These rules create close racing where rider skill determines results more than equipment advantages.

Riders must typically be at least 18 years old, though exceptions exist for junior champions. The class serves as a training ground where young riders develop skills needed for higher categories. Success in Moto3 often leads to opportunities in Moto2 and eventually MotoGP.

Racing Heritage

The Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna previously hosted the Brazilian motorcycle Grand Prix from 1987 to 1989. Brazil's last motorcycle Grand Prix took place at the Jacarepaguá Circuit in 2004. The return to Goiânia represents a significant moment for Brazilian motorsport fans. An agreement ensures the circuit will host a round of the World Motorcycle Championship through 2030.

Race Characteristics

Moto3 races often feature large groups of riders battling together for the lead. The lightweight bikes carry immense corner speed, which allows riders to stay close together. Slipstreaming plays a major role in race strategy. Riders must position themselves carefully and choose the right moment to attack for position. Close-quarters racing continues right up to the final corners.

The tropical climate of Goiânia can affect race conditions. Rain remains a possibility during race weekends, which adds another challenge for riders and teams. Weather changes force quick adjustments to bike setup and tire choice.

Brazilian fans show strong support for riders with local connections and for the return of Grand Prix racing to their country. The event brings world-class motorcycle racing back to a nation with a passionate motorsport following. Young riders from around the globe compete at the Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna, each hoping to take a step forward in their racing careers.