The MotoGP French Grand Prix returns to the scene for another season. Le Mans opens its gates this weekend from May 8 to 10, where Marc Márquez aims to close the gap to the Aprilia riders after his unfortunate crash in Sunday’s race at the Spanish Grand Prix.
The nine-time world champion had a promising weekend in Jerez, where his Ducati came alive. After winning a chaotic Sprint race on Saturday, a costly crash while leading Sunday’s main race denied him the chance to cut into Marco Bezzecchi’s lead. The victory went to his brother Álex, who smiled for the first time this season with an outstanding display of skill aboard the Desmosedici GP26. 
Marc Márquez, Ducati Lenovo Team, during the Spanish MotoGP Grand Prix / José Manuel Vidal / EFE 
Marc Márquez, Ducati Lenovo Team, during the Sprint race at the Spanish MotoGP Grand Prix / José Manuel Vidal / EFE
At the top of the championship standings, the two Aprilia bikes continue to dominate, with Marco Bezzecchi as the undisputed leader. He holds an 11-point advantage over his teammate Jorge Martín, who has left his injury struggles behind and is emerging as a strong title contender. Meanwhile, Marc Márquez sits 44 points back, though no one is counting out the Cervera native in the fight for the world title.
The French Grand Prix weekend will kick off with the first of two free practice sessions. Held in European time as the second race of the continental calendar, it allows fans to enjoy the action at a more familiar time. Later in the day, the Practice session will take place, where riders will set the first real competitive lap times.
Free Practice and Practice Timings for the 2026 French MotoGP (Friday, May 8):
– Moto3 | FP1: 09:00
– Moto2 | FP1: 09:50
– MotoGP | FP1: 10:45
– Moto3 | Practice: 13:15
– Moto2 | Practice: 14:05
– MotoGP | Practice: 15:00
You can follow all the action from the MotoGP world championship, including live updates of practice, qualifying, and races, as well as reports and reactions from the protagonists right here.
