MotoGP News: Record-Breaker Bezzecchi Claims COTA Crown in Dominant Aprilia 1-2

Marco Bezzecchi (pictured) produced a Sunday masterclass at the Circuit of the Americas, leading every single lap of the 2026 United States Grand Prix to secure his fifth consecutive MotoGP victory. The Aprilia Racing rider became the first since Marc Márquez in 2014 to win the opening three rounds of a season and shattered the modern-era record for consecutive laps led, extending his streak to 121 (surpassing Jorge Lorenzo’s 103 from 2015).

–by Mark Cipolloni–

Aprilia celebrated their second successive 1-2 finish—a historic first for the factory—with teammate Jorge Martín charging through to second. Rookie sensation Pedro Acosta completed the podium for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing in third.

The race began with fireworks off the line. Acosta launched brilliantly from the front row to snatch the holeshot, but Bezzecchi stormed forward and seized the lead at Turn 11 with a bold inside move. The pair made contact on the exit, a fairing piece flew off Bezzecchi’s bike, yet “Bez” held firm at the front and never looked back.

While Bezzecchi built a controlled cushion out front, the midfield delivered plenty of drama. Martín eventually swept past Acosta to secure second, while Fabio Di Giannantonio emerged as the top Ducati in fourth. Marc Márquez fought back to fifth after serving a Long Lap penalty for a Sprint-race incident. A late charge from Ai Ogura ended abruptly with an electrical fault, and Joan Mir crashed out after receiving his own Long Lap penalty.

Bezzecchi crossed the line 2.036 seconds ahead of Martín, with Acosta a further 2.461s back in third. The win extends Aprilia’s momentum early in the 2026 campaign and underlines Bezzecchi’s status as the rider to beat.

2026 United States Grand Prix – MotoGP Race Results (COTA)

The MotoGP paddock now heads to the next round with Bezzecchi firmly in control of the early-season narrative. Aprilia’s one-two punch has sent a clear message: the 2026 title fight is already heating up.