Date: 27th April 2025
The city of Jerez de la Frontera in southern Spain has become synonymous with motor cycle racing since it held the first Jerez MotoGP in 1987. Every year thousands of motor cyclists from all over Europe swarm to Jerez to attend this annual event which can accommodate upto 250,000 fans within the impressive Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto. This circuit was originally built to host the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix which has since moved to the Circuit de Catalunya just outside Barcelona. It remains a popular year round venue for both Formula 1 and MotoGP testing.
The Spanish Motorcycle Grand Prix has witnessed many significant moments in MotoGP history, with legendary riders like Valentino Rossi, Mick Doohan and Jorge Lorenzo all making their mark at Jerez. In addition to its strong MotoGP presence, Jerez has been home to numerous memorable moments in 500cc and Moto2 events, with the circuit’s smooth asphalt and challenging corners offering a thrilling experience for both riders and spectators alike.
Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto
The Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto is one of the most beloved tracks in the MotoGP world. With a layout of 4.423 kilometres, it’s known for its mix of high-speed straights and technical corners. The track features 13 turns, each offering a unique challenge for the riders. Among the most famous sections of the circuit are the ‘Dry Sack’ corner and the final corner, ‘Jerez,’ which often provides an exciting finish to the race. The narrow track and tight turns, combined with long straights, make Jerez one of the best circuits for overtaking and high-speed battles, contributing to its reputation as a fan-favourite venue.
Spanish MotoGP Winners
The Spanish MotoGP has seen some of the greatest names in the sport conquer the Jerez circuit. Multiple world champions such as Marc Márquez, Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo have delivered memorable performances in front of roaring Spanish crowds.
| Year | Winner | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Francesco Bagnaia | Ducati |
| 2023 | Francesco Bagnaia | Ducati |
| 2022 | Francesco Bagnaia | Ducati |
| 2021 | Jack Miller | Ducati |
| 2020 | Fabio Quartararo | Yamaha |
| 2019 | Marc Márquez | Honda |
| 2018 | Marc Márquez | Honda |
| 2017 | Dani Pedrosa | Honda |
| 2016 | Valentino Rossi | Yamaha |
| 2015 | Jorge Lorenzo | Yamaha |
| 2014 | Marc Márquez | Honda |
Fan Guide to the Jerez MotoGP
Getting to Jerez de la Frontera
By Air:
Jerez de la Frontera is easily accessible from various parts of Spain and Europe, making it an ideal destination for international fans. The nearest major airport is Jerez Airport (XRY), located just 10km from the circuit. This small airport serves several major European cities, making it convenient for fans flying in for the race. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to the circuit.
Alternatively, Seville Airport (SVQ), about 90km away, is another popular option for international visitors. From Seville, there are regular bus services and trains to Jerez, which offer a more affordable means of transport.
By Road:
The track itself is located just 10km east of the city of Jerez on the road towards Arcos de la Frontera and the Pueblos Blancos. Traffic congestion has long been a major problem as spectators get near the circuit but a dual carriageway now connects the Seville-Cadiz motorway exit with the track so the approach road to the circuit is much improved. Parking is available at the circuit and nearby areas.
By Shuttle Bus:
Special bus services also run from Jerez and taxis will take you close to the circuit but usually ask you to get out about 1km away to avoid getting stuck in the traffic.
At the last Spanish Motorcycle Grand Prix an estimated 100,000 people had arrived at the circuit before 8am so do bear this in mind when planning your visit.
Circuit de Jerez
Where to Stay at the Spanish MotoGP
Hotels in and Near Jerez
Accommodation in Jerez itself is nowhere near enough for the huge numbers arriving for this event so unless you book well in advance you should look further afield. nearby towns such as El Puerto de Santa María or Sanlúcar de Barrameda offer affordable options and are within a 30-minute drive to Jerez.
Hotels in Seville
Many fans choose to stay in Seville, some 95 km to the north, and drive down for the day but do allow for severe congestion on race day. On this route follow signs for the A4 toll road to Cadiz and take the exit for Arcos de la Frontera/Circuito de Velocidad at KM 78.5.
Jerez MotoGP Camping:
Many fans also choose to stay at campsites set up around the circuit for an authentic, social MotoGP experience. The official Acampada Moto GP Jerez campsite is within the grounds of the Circuit de Jerez. Just a few minutes away and also within walking distance of the Jerez Circuit is the Acampada Motor Jerez campsite (CA-4103, 11400 Jerez de la Frontera). Both venues are very popular so advance bookings are required.
Jerez MotoGP Tickets
You can buy Jerez MotoGP tickets from the official Circuit de Jerez website. Options range from general admission to premium grandstand seats as well as VIP and hospitality packages. If you prefer to wait until you get there you might find some general admission tickets on sale at the circuit though all grandstand seats will be sold out and queues to get these few remaining tickets are horrendous. There are usually plenty touts around offering tickets outside the circuit.
Other MotoGP Races in Spain
Catalunya MotoGP
The annual Catalunya MotoGP attracts huge crowds to the Circuit de Catalunya at Montmeló north of Barcelona and is one of the highlights of the motorcycling world championship.
Valencia MotoGP
The Valencia Moto GP attracts bikers from all over Europe to this 150,000 capacity Circuit de Valencia at Cheste.
Aragón MotoGP
One of the newer races on the MotoGP calendar, this annual event takes place at the MotorLand Aragón circuit in the small town of Alcañiz (Teruel) in northern Spain.