Qualifying will play an even more important role than usual during MotoGP’s return to Brazil next weekend.
That’s the opinion of Luca Marini, who was among a handful of riders to visit the Goiania circuit during a PR event a year ago.
While insisting it was “impossible” to predict which bikes would suit the circuit, given the lack of any MotoGP laps, Marini did outline the main characteristics of the 3.82km track.
“It’s quite a fast track, but narrow, with some really slow corners, and short,” Marini said during the Thai Grand Prix season opener.
“I think it will be difficult to overtake. This is the critical point. Because the straight is super long, but Turn 1 is very fast.
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“And when there is a fast corner and the braking is short, it’s more difficult to overtake.
“But anyway, we will try to enjoy. Whenever there is a new track, it is a new challenge and a new opportunity for everybody.”
Goiania previously hosted motorcycle grand prix from 1987-1989, when the championship consisted of two-stroke machinery.
The circuit has been resurfaced and facilities upgraded for MotoGP’s return.
“In the Safety Commission, they showed us a video of all the facilities, all the buildings,” said Marini. “They have been working a lot.
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“It looks like they did a good job. I’m looking forward to it.”
Two riders sure to receive plenty of home support next weekend will be 2026 MotoGP rookie Diogo Moreira, the reigning Moto2 world champion, plus Italian-Brazilian Franco Morbidelli.
Moreira and Morbidelli joined Marini, Miguel Oliveira and MotoE rider Eric Granado for last year’s Goiania visit.
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