Motorcycle racing

The basics in 1 minute

The aim

Grand Prix motorcycle riders aim to complete the race distance ahead of their rivals. This guide covers MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3, whose technical rules differ.

Scoring

Race results use completed laps and finishing order. Grand Prix points reward the leading 15 finishers, with 25 for the winner; MotoGP Sprints have a separate points scale.

Key rules

  • Start only when the red lights go out; jumping the start can bring a penalty.
  • Under yellow flags, slow down and do not overtake until the green signal.
  • Respect track limits, pit-lane speed limits and officials' signals; unsafe riding and gaining an advantage outside the track can be penalised.