Pedro Acosta dominates FP1 MotoGP Brasil 2026 with record time in Goiânia By Bruna
3 min read
 |
Free practice session 1 (FP1) of Grande Prêmio of Brasil of MotoGP 2026 took place on the evening of Friday, March 20, at Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna, at Goiânia. The Spanish rider Pedro Acosta, from Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, recorded the best time of 1min26s688 and topped the time table. The stage marks the return of MotoGP to the Brasil after more than two decades, being the first time that the category competes on this circuit since the championship’s last appearance in the country in 2004.
Jack Miller, from Pramac Yamaha, finished second in 1min26s775, just 0s087 behind Acosta. Marco Bezzecchi, from Aprilia Racing, completed the top 3 with a time of 1min26s918, demonstrating good pace for the Italian bikes on the new track for most riders. The session took place in dry conditions, allowing competitors to explore the short, technical Goiânia track.
Highlights of the early days
Acosta set the benchmark in the final laps of the 60-minute session. Ele completed several consistent laps, showing quick adaptation to the circuit. Miller pressed hard in the final stretch, but was unable to beat the leader’s time.
Bezzecchi kept the Aprilia competitive in the top 3. The proximity between the top three indicates an initial balance between different brands. The drivers accumulated valuable data for the upcoming sessions.
Top 10 positions in FP1
Marc Marquez, from Ducati Lenovo, finished fourth with 1min26s975, followed by Franco Morbidelli, from Pertamina VR46 Maverick Viñales, Jorge Martin, Fermin Aldeguer, Francesco Bagnaia and Alex Marquez completed the top 10, all within less than 1 second of the leader.
The table shows the diversity of teams in the top positions. Ducati and Aprilia had multiple representatives in the top 10, while KTM and Yamaha also showed early strength. The times reflect the setup work on the bikes for the unprecedented route.
Adaptation to the Goiânia circuit
The Autódromo Ayrton Senna, just over 3.8 km long, presented grip and braking challenges for the riders. Muitos competitors highlighted the need for fine adjustments to suspensions and electronics. Acosta took advantage of his experience on new tracks to stand out from the start.
The session served as a basis for the teams to collect information about tires and fuel consumption. Condições stable climate conditions allowed full focus on performance. Pilotos like Bagnaia and Martin, who started further back, should improve in the following training sessions.
MotoGP’s historic return to Brasil
The event represents the return of the category to the country after an absence since 2004, when the race took place at Rio of Janeiro. Goiânia hosts MotoGP for the first time, with a full house expected for the weekend. The stage takes place in March, taking advantage of the local festival period.
Teams and drivers expressed excitement about the new calendar. The circuit pays homage to Ayrton Senna and offers a fast layout with long straights and varied curves. FP1 confirmed that the track allows for competitive times and overtaking.
Performance of Brazilians and newcomers
Diogo Moreira, local driver of Pro Honda LCR, completed the session in 18th place. Sua participation generates expectations among Brazilian fans. Outros newcomers to the track showed gradual adaptation to the layout.
The opening session highlighted Acosta’s potential as the championship leader. Ele arrives motivated by previous good results and demonstrated consistency. Rivals will have opportunities to react in FP2 and in qualifying.
