It took place on the weekend of 18–20 May 2012 at the Bugatti Circuit in Le Mans, France.

In a press conference on the Thursday before the race, Casey Stoner announced his retirement from the sport at the end of the season.

Valentino Rossi took second place for his first podium since the previous year's race.

Thomas Lüthi and Louis Rossi won the Moto2 and Moto3 races respectively.

Below are the standings for the top five riders and constructors after round four has concluded.