Marc Márquez retires in Thailand as Bezzecchi dominates MotoGP season opener

The rider from Cervera suffered a tire puncture while Pedro Acosta takes the championship lead.

Generic image of a motorcycle racing track under intense sun with shimmering asphalt.
IA

Generic image of a motorcycle racing track under intense sun with shimmering asphalt.

Spanish rider Marc Márquez was forced to retire from the Thailand Grand Prix this Sunday during the opening round of the 2026 MotoGP World Championship due to a rear tire puncture.

The race at the Chang International Circuit was held under grueling conditions, with track temperatures reaching 60 degrees Celsius. Márquez, who was fighting for a podium spot, saw his race end prematurely with only five laps remaining.
Italy's Marco Bezzecchi delivered a flawless performance on his Aprilia, securing a dominant victory. This win marks a historic moment for the manufacturer, as Bezzecchi showed superior pace throughout the entire weekend in Buriram.

"The last 5 laps were very difficult. I gave my maximum, but the rear tire was destroyed. It is a fantastic job by Aprilia."

Raúl Fernández · Third place finisher
Pedro Acosta finished in second place, becoming the new championship leader with 32 points. The podium was rounded out by Raúl Fernández, highlighting a difficult day for Ducati as none of their bikes reached the top three spots.