The season opener at the Thai circuit ended on the last corner, where 21‑year‑old Pedro Acosta, a two‑time intermediate champion, edged out world champion Marc Márquez. The duel was settled after officials penalised Márquez for a late move, allowing Acosta to take the checkered flag.
Acosta’s win marks the first for a KTM rider in MotoGP, while Raúl Fernández completed the Spanish podium on a private Aprilia. The result sets a high bar for the rest of the season.