The MotoGP gave a great show outside the tracks by transforming Kuala Lumpur into the center of attention for the launch of the 2026 season. The capital of Malaysia hosted two days of celebrations that brought together riders, teams, and thousands of fans, in an event that mixed sports, entertainment, and direct contact with the public, reinforcing the global reach of the category.
The kick-off came with an official party held on Friday night at the Permata Sapura Tower, in an environment marked by a panoramic view of the city and a gala atmosphere. Riders and team members attended a reception in formal attire, while fans watched the arrival of the season’s protagonists on the red carpet. The meeting brought the paddock closer to the local public and set the festive tone for the rest of the program.
Throughout Friday, the bikes were also displayed at different points in the city, attracting the attention of residents and tourists. On Saturday, the focus shifted to the Show Run, when the MotoGP machines took to the streets. The rain that fell just before the start increased the anticipation, but the weather improved in time to allow the moving parade to take place.
Each team took their riders for two exhibition laps through the streets surrounded by fans. In addition to accelerating, many took the opportunity to wave and perform small demonstrations, creating moments of interaction and excitement. The event officially started at 7:30 pm, with the first bikes taking to the streets from 8 pm, in front of an estimated crowd of around 20,000 people.
After the presentations of all the riders on the 2026 grid, the program continued with musical attractions. The band The Script was one of the main acts on stage, alongside DJ PAWSA and Malaysian group DOLLA. At the end, riders and members of The Script went up on stage together for final photos and farewell to the public, in an image that symbolized the union between sports and spectacle.
With the season officially presented, MotoGP now turns its attention to the track. The next commitment is the Buriram test in Thailand, which will provide two more days of activities and allow the 2026 sports stories to begin to take shape. The championship opener is scheduled for March 1st in Buriram, kicking off a calendar of 22 GPs that already promises to make history.
