It has been a long wait, but finally, it is time for MotoGP action to return to the legendary Automotodrom Brno. Round 12 of the 2025 season is quickly approaching, and as we prepare for lights out at a venue which has witnessed landmark moments and unforgettable battles, let’s enjoy some of those moments for free!
1996: Criville vs Doohan
A last lap duel, a fight between teammates and a photo finish – the 1996 Czech GP had it all! Alex Criville and Mick Doohan battled from start to finish, disappearing out of Scott Russell’s sight. Everything came down to the finish line, with 0.002s separating them in a truly historical moment. Criville would be awarded the winner, with Doohan earning second position in a Grand Prix, which is still discussed to this day!
2003: Rossi vs Gibernau vs Bayliss
Valentino Rossi against Sete Gibernau, do we need to say more? One of the fiercest battles that we have witnessed, and that is without the addition of Troy Bayliss, who was hot on the pair’s heels. Bayliss initially led the field before an incredible fight began between Rossi and Gibernau. The pair would trade positions and make unthinkable moves until the Grand Prix was decided in a dramatic fight to the line. In the end, it all came down to another photo finish, with Rossi sealing victory by 0.042s!
2012: Pedrosa vs Lorenzo
It was a true clash of the titans at the 2012 Czech GP, as Dani Pedrosa and Jorge Lorenzo went head-to-head in an unforgettable duel. The pair exchanged the lead countless times throughout the race, before Lorenzo bided his time – launching a bold move on the final lap. However, Pedrosa responded, striking back at Turn 13 and 14 in an unforgettable move that secured him the win following an incredible run to the line. 0.178s separated them at the line as Cal Crutchlow completed a talent-stacked podium.
2018: Dovizioso vs Lorenzo vs Marquez
It was Ducati vs Honda, something we became familiar with in 2018, with Andrea Dovizioso, Jorge Lorenzo and Marc Marquez putting on a jaw-dropping display for the crowd. It was an all-out battle for the entire race, with Valentino Rossi, Cal Crutchlow, and Danilo Petrucci joining the fight in the opening stages. However, the top three soon cleared into the distance, with Dovizioso securing victory following an incredible final two laps. Lorenzo grabbed second, once again losing out on victory by 0.178s, while Marquez ended Sunday in third.
2020: Binder creates history
The 2020 Czech GP was a truly special occasion for one rider in particular, with Brad Binder storming to his first-ever MotoGP victory. Binder became the first ever South African rider to win a MotoGP race, and at the same time, he took KTM’s maiden victory in the premier class. It was a commanding ride, with plenty of drama throughout, which allowed the #33 to take victory by 5.266s. Franco Morbidelli and Johann Zarco joined Binder on a hard-fought podium, leaving fans wanting more action at Brno!
Our last visit to Brno was back in 2020 – but that’s about to change. The Tissot Grand Prix of Czechia returns to the calendar in 2025, with anticipation building. Will we witness another historic battle? Tune in to find out!