Get ready for an exciting start to the 2026 Moto3 season! The qualifying sessions in Thailand have already delivered some thrilling moments and unexpected twists.
A New Benchmark is Set
David Almansa, riding for Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP, dominated the first qualifying round, securing pole position for the Thai Grand Prix. His seamless transition from Honda to KTM machinery was a sight to behold, as he effortlessly slotted into the perfect track position, chasing down the leaders with ease. Almansa's run not only secured him the top spot but also set a new lap record, clocking an impressive 1:40.088s.
But here's where it gets controversial...
The Chase for the Front Row
Alvaro Carpe, riding for Red Bull KTM Ajo, was the only rider within half a second of Almansa's benchmark lap, finishing a close second. Adrian Fernandez, who won the last Grand Prix of 2025, will complete the front row for Sunday's race. Fernandez's performance is a testament to his consistency and skill, as he passed Kelso on track to secure his position.
And this is the part most people miss...
Rookie Sensation
Vada Pratama, the top rookie in Q2, made an impressive debut in his world championship qualifying. Riding for Honda Team Asia, Pratama picked up a place late in the session, showcasing his talent and potential. His performance is a reminder that rookies can often surprise and challenge the more experienced riders.
Late Improvements and Strategy
Many riders, including David Munoz and Ryusei Yamanaka, made the most of the final minutes in Q2, climbing up the rankings. Munoz, returning from injury, spent the first part of Q2 resting and conserving his energy, before a late dash saw him secure sixth position. Yamanaka, riding for MT Helmets, also secured a strong seventh place.
Q1: The Battle for Q2
In a crowded and intense Q1 session, Hakim Danish, a rookie from Malaysia, emerged on top. Danish's late dash, navigating through a group of riders searching for a tow, secured him a spot in Q2. Joel Kelso, who was initially leading, had his late effort cancelled, dropping him down the order.
The final spot in Q2 went to another rookie, Rico Salmela, who beat a last-minute effort from Cormac Buchanan. Matteo Bertelle, the pole position rider from last season's opening round, had a different start to 2026, finishing Q1 in seventh and lining up 21st on race day.
So, who do you think will dominate the 2026 Thai Moto3 race? Will the rookies continue to surprise, or will the experienced riders take control? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments!
Here are the full qualifying results for the 2026 Thailand Moto3:
Qualifying Results
| Pos | Rider | Nat | Team | Time |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | David Almansa | SPA | Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP (KTM) | 1:40.088s |
| 2 | Alvaro Carpe | SPA | Red Bull KTM Ajo (KTM) | +0.430s |
| 3 | Adrian Fernandez | SPA | Leopard Racing (Honda) | +0.605s |
| 4 | Maximo Quiles | SPA | CFMOTO Aspar Team (KTM) | +0.609s |
| 5 | Vada Pratama | INA | Honda Team Asia (Honda) | +0.789s |
| 6 | David Munoz | SPA | Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP (KTM) | +1.003s |
| 7 | Ryusei Yamanaka | JPN | AEON Credit- MT Helmets - MSI (KTM) | +1.110s |
| 8 | Scott Ogden | GBR | CIP Green Power (KTM) | +1.203s |
| 9 | Guido Pini | ITA | Leopard Racing (Honda) | +1.231s |
| 10 | Casey O'Gorman | IRL | SIC58 Squadra Corse (Honda) | +1.249s |
| ... | ... | ... | ... | ... |
Q1 Results
| Pos | Rider | Nat | Team | Time |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 19 | Cormac Buchanan | NZL | CODEMotorsports (KTM) | 1:41.839s |
| 20 | Eddie O'Shea | GBR | GRYD - MLav Racing (Honda) | 1:41.846s |
| 21 | Matteo Bertelle | ITA | LEVEL UP - MTA (KTM) | 1:41.902s |
| 22 | Adrian Cruces | SPA | CIP Green Power (KTM) | 1:42.026s |
| 23 | Leo Rammerstorfer | AUT | SIC58 Squadra Corse (Honda) | 1:42.230s |
| ... | ... | ... | ... | ... |
