A sprint race is a supplementary half-distance race that was introduced into Motorcycle Grand Prix racing for the 2023 season. The sprint race takes place on the Saturday of every grand prix event at 3 pm local time, with the usual qualifying session happening earlier in the day to decide the grid for it. The grid for the sprint race is set based on the results of qualifying, and the main race also features the same grid – the sprint race does not contribute to its starting order. The sprint race lasts roughly half the amount of time of Sundays race, which will vary from Grand Prix to Grand Prix. For example, if Sundays race is 20 laps, then the sprint race will be 10 laps. Up to 12 points are handed out for sprint race results, with half points on offer, and these points are awarded to riders in the top nine positions of the sprint races. The sprint race has no bearing on the starting grid for the main grand prix. The introduction of sprint races is aimed at offering better value for fans both watching from the track and from home, which in turn should attract more sponsorship and boost overall worldwide exposure.