A Guide to MotoGP™ Races in Asia: Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, and Malaysia
Attending a MotoGP™ race is about much more than watching the world's fastest riders battle it out for victory. It's about fully immersing yourself in the electrifying thrill of a Grand Prix weekend, getting a taste of local culture and cuisine, and turning a sporting event into an unforgettable experience.
Asia is home to some of the most exciting stops on the MotoGP™ calendar, including Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Each destination offers a unique combination of challenging motorsport circuits, passionate fans, incredible food, and cultural attractions. Whether you're planning your first MotoGP™ trip or checking another circuit off your bucket list, these races offer adventures that go far beyond the grandstands.
Where is the Thailand MotoGP™?
Circuit Name: Buriram International Circuit
Circuit Location: Buriram, Thailand
Nearest Airport: Buriram Airport
Located in northeastern Thailand, Buriram is considered the country's motorsport capital. The Buriram province is known for its rich cultural heritage, specifically ancient Khmer architecture and scenic rural landscapes. Visitors can explore historic attractions, dine at excellent restaurants, and immerse themselves in a time gone past with the locals' distinct, warm hospitality.
Buriram Travel highlights include:
- Phanom Rung Historical Park, an ancient Khmer temple complex built atop an inactive volcano.
- Buriram Castle, boasting manicured gardens and cultural exhibits.
- Authentic Thai street food, including a spicy papaya salad known as Som Tam.
- Local night markets like Sro Ground.
Chang International Circuit, also known as Buriram International Circuit, is famous for its long straights, heavy braking zones, and regular opportunities for dramatic overtaking. Originally added to the MotoGP™ calendar in 2018, the circuit encompasses 12 turns over 4.554 km (2.83 miles). The enthusiasm of Thai fans creates an electric atmosphere throughout the weekend, making every practice, qualifying, and race feel like a celebration of motorcycle racing.
Where is the Japan MotoGP™?
Circuit Name: Mobility Resort Motegi
Circuit Location: Motegi, Tochigi, Japan
Nearest Airports: Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport
Located in rural Tochigi Prefecture, about two hours north of Tokyo, Motegi is a destination where Japanese motorsport heritage meets traditional countryside landscapes. Beyond the Japanese Grand Prix, visitors can explore the Honda Collection Hall, discover local cuisine in nearby Utsunomiya, and adventure into the surrounding region.
Motegi Travel highlights include:
- An automotive theme park at Mobility Resort Motegi.
- Honda Collection Hall, featuring legendary race bikes and historic vehicles.
- The nearby city of Utsunomiya, famous throughout Japan for its delicious gyoza.
- Tokyo, where visitors can experience everything from historic temples and gardens to anime culture, shopping, Michelin-starred restaurants, and futuristic cityscapes.
First utilised for MotoGP™ racing in 1999, Mobility Resort Motegi spans 4.8 km (2.9 miles). Unlike high-speed flowing circuits, Motegi features a stop-and-go layout that rewards precision, late braking, and strong acceleration. As Honda's home circuit, the Japanese Grand Prix celebrates decades of motorsport innovation with a particularly passionate home crowd.
Where is the Indonesia MotoGP™?
Circuit Name: Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit
Circuit Location: Lombok, Indonesia
Nearest Airport: Lombok International Airport
Lombok is just one of over 17,000 islands that make up the Indonesian archipelago, offering a stunning blend of pristine beaches, rugged coastlines, and breathtaking sunsets. Visitors can unwind at luxurious beachfront resorts and world-class spas, discover hidden waterfalls, or venture into the island's lush natural landscapes. Often nicknamed "the island of a thousand mosques”, visitors can explore a variety of fascinating buildings, including the Islamic Center NTB and Bayan Beleq Mosque.
Lombok Travel highlights include:
- Mandalika Beach, ideal for surfing, snorkelling, and relaxing.
- Mount Rinjani, an active volcano with stunning hiking trails.
- Traditional Sasak villages, for experiencing local customs and crafts.
- Explore nearby islands by boat, including Bali.
Completed in 2021, the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit is one of the most modern circuits on the MotoGP™ calendar. The 4.3 km (2.68 miles) track combines high-speed sections with technical corners, ensuring a truly thrilling race atmosphere. The circuit is also located mere moments from pristine beaches with turquoise waters, providing a tropical backdrop for the Indonesian Grand Prix.
Where is the Malaysia MotoGP™?
Circuit Name: Sepang International Circuit
Circuit Location: Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia
Nearest Airport: Kuala Lumpur International Airport
Known primarily as a motorsport destination, Sepang is a quaint town of villages nestled just Southeast of Malaysia's sprawling capital, Kuala Lumpur. This Southeast Asian region is widely popular for its incredible food, blending Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavours. From luxury malls like Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and Suria KLCC to exploring the bustling local markets like Petaling Street Market and Kasturi Walk, Kuala Lumpur is also a spectacular shopping destination.
Sepang Travel highlights include:
- The Petronas Twin Towers, the world's tallest twin skyscrapers.
- Batu Caves, a Hindu shrine made of limestone over 400 million years old.
- Jalan Alor Food Street, particularly enchanting to visit at night.
- Cultural neighbourhoods, including Chinatown and Little India.
Regarded as one of the best circuits in the world, Sepang International Circuit is known for its wide track, flowing corners, and unpredictable tropical weather. At 5.54 km (3.44 miles), it is also one of the calendar's longest circuits, featuring two long straights and a mix of slow, medium, and high-speed corners.
Plan Your MotoGP™ Adventure in Asia
Attending a MotoGP™ race weekend in person is one of the most rewarding experiences in motorsport, and the memories don't have to stop when the race ends! From Thailand's ancient temples and Japan's legendary racing culture to Indonesia's tropical coastline and Malaysia's dynamic capital city, every Grand Prix destination offers an adventure beyond the circuit.
Whether you're preparing for your first two-wheel racing trip or looking to attend a race weekend in a new country, the best way to witness the epitome of MotoGP™ racing in Asia is with an Official Ticket Package from MotoGP™ Premier. It's time to gear up for the perfect blend of world-class racing, unforgettable cultural experiences, and memories that will last a lifetime.
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