MXGP Heads to Sardinia for Crucial Round 4 of 2026 Championship
The 2026 FIM Motocross World Championship continues this weekend with Round 4 heading to the deep sand of Sardinia, Italy. The iconic Crossodromo Comunale “Le Dune” in Riola Sardo is set to host one of the toughest and most physically demanding races on the calendar.
Known for its brutal sand conditions and high temperatures, the Sardinian round has become a defining test for riders, machines, and fitness early in the MXGP season.
With the championship already delivering intense racing across the opening rounds, Sardinia represents a key moment where momentum can be built, or lost.
A Unique Challenge in Riola Sardo
The Riola Sardo circuit is widely regarded as one of the most demanding tracks in world motocross. Its deep, ever-changing sand surface evolves throughout the day, creating new lines and ruts with every lap.
Combined with warm Mediterranean conditions, the circuit places extreme physical demands on riders, often separating the field based on endurance as much as raw speed.
Mistakes are heavily punished in these conditions, making consistency and energy management critical across both motos.
Riders to Watch
Several top contenders arrive in Sardinia with strong early-season form. Jeffrey Herlings, now riding with Honda HRC, is a proven force on sand tracks and has already claimed multiple victories at this venue, including his milestone 100th Grand Prix win.
Tom Vialle also enters the weekend with confidence following a recent victory, demonstrating both speed and race craft on challenging circuits. Meanwhile, emerging talents and championship contenders continue to push the pace in what is shaping up to be a highly competitive season.
With no single rider dominating this venue in recent years, the Sardinian GP remains one of the most unpredictable rounds on the calendar.
Championship Context
After three rounds, the 2026 championship is already showing signs of being one of the most competitive in recent memory. Different winners across the opening events have kept the standings close, with multiple riders still in contention.
Round 4 in Sardinia could prove to be a turning point, particularly for riders who excel in sand conditions and are able to capitalise on the physically demanding track.
With the next round in Trentino following immediately after, momentum gained in Sardinia could play a crucial role in shaping the early championship battle.
What to Expect
Fans can expect intense racing, dramatic changes in track conditions, and a high rate of mistakes as riders push to their limits in the Sardinian sand.
Starts will be critical, as overtaking on deep sand tracks can be difficult, while endurance and bike setup will play a major role in determining the final results.
With the championship still wide open, the MXGP of Sardinia promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in the 2026 season.