Diogo Moreira (MT Helmets – MSI) opened Moto3™ action at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan on top, pulling two tenths clear in the final few minutes of P1 to lead David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) and Championship challenger Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) in the top three.
Home hero and third in the Championship, Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), remained on Masia’s tail – just as he does in the standings. He took fourth although at a bigger 0.475 deficit to the top.
Stefano Nepa (Angeluss MTA Team) slots into fifth ahead of Championship leader Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3), with David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team), Ryusei Yamanaka (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team), Matteo Bertelle (Rivacold Snipers Team) and Deniz Öncu (Red Bull KTM Ajo) completing the top ten as the newer faces on the grid mix it up with the veterans.
Moto3™ head back out at 13:15 (GMT +9) local time for P2!
The top 10:
| 1 | Diogo Moreira (MT Helmets – MSI) | 1'57.260 |
| 2 | David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) | +0.206 |
| 3 | Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) | +0.235 |
| 4 | Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly HUsqvarna Intact GP) | +0.475 |
| 5 | Stefano Nepa (Angeluss MTA Team) | +0.485 |
| 6 | Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) | +0.496 |
| 7 | David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) | +0.513 |
| 8 | Ryusei Yamanaka (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) | +0.655 |
| 9 | Matteo Bertelle (Rivacold Snipers Team) | +0.796 |
| 10 | Deniz Öncu (Red Bull KTM Ajo) | +0.851 |