KTM's leading rider is optimistic that their "most powerful team" will spark momentum in MotoGP. "While it's accurate to say they lack extensive experience with KTM…"

For this year's MotoGP season, Pedro Acosta has been promoted to the factory KTM team. Replacing him at Tech3 are two riders whom Acosta considers part of the strongest lineup the Austrian brand has ever had in the top tier of Grand Prix racing.

With 26 Grand Prix wins to his name, Maverick Vinales ranks as the third most successful racer in this year's MotoGP lineup. Meanwhile, Enea Bastianini, who has secured 13 Grand Prix victories, has been associated with Ducati, the leading manufacturer in recent years. His experience provides crucial knowledge for KTM as they attempt to challenge Ducati's dominance.

Acosta expressed confidence that the two new riders joining his former team will definitely be beneficial.

"Our current roster is the most formidable in KTM's history. In fact, I believe we have the most impressive team in the entire championship."

"While it's accurate to say they lack extensive experience with KTM, it's worth noting that Maverick Vinales has secured race victories with three different manufacturers. Additionally, Enea Bastianini possesses comprehensive knowledge about Ducati and has demonstrated impressive speed over the past few years."

"In the end, there is no doubt; they will be quick."

"This initiative needs to grow like a snowball, gaining momentum and size. Each person brings unique strengths to the table, and these strengths differ from one individual to another. To succeed, we should combine all these abilities to create a formidable team."

For Brad Binder, Acosta's teammate in 2025, the insights that Bastianini and Vinales bring from their experiences with various brands will play a significant role in KTM's progress in the next season.

"Binder mentioned that having two individuals transitioning from different factories to Tech3 provides a significant benefit. They still have recent insights, making it straightforward for them to identify areas for improvement or highlight our strengths."

"Certainly, I've had quick teammates before, but this year we have a particularly remarkable team. I genuinely feel that this will drive our project forward, and I'm eager to watch how everything unfolds as the season progresses."

Binder mentioned that having four factory riders as part of KTM's team will be beneficial, as all four racers can play a role in improving the bike.

Based on what I've seen over the past few seasons, we truly function as a team of four," stated Binder.

"In truth, it's a unified team effort. This has especially been the case over the past few years. I genuinely believe that both can contribute something unique, as there are certain aspects where the Aprilia excels and the Ducati also performs exceptionally."

"In my opinion, by combining their expertise and insights, they can steer us toward areas for improvement and identify actions necessary to make significant progress."

"In previous experiences with Jack Miller, his presence allowed us to identify and address minor problems."

After nearly moving towards the path he outlined, we took a significant step forward.

"I anticipate similar outcomes this season and believe it will be highly beneficial for us."

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In August 2024, Alex became a member of the Crash.net team after spending two years reporting on consumer and racing motorcycle news at Visordown.

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Tech3 experienced a typical winter season despite uncertainties surrounding their future with KTM. The team reported that KTM consistently informed them about the financial challenges the company was facing.

Nicolas Goyon, the manager of the Tech3 MotoGP team, mentioned that throughout the winter, KTM consistently reassured them with the message “don’t worry” and confirmed that they would be competing “in ’25 as originally intended.”

KTM's future in MotoGP is uncertain due to the company's ongoing insolvency proceedings caused by its financial troubles.

In the lead-up to Christmas, a report emerged after a creditors meeting indicating that KTM was considering pulling out of MotoGP. This prompted the Austrian company to release a statement affirming its intention to participate in the 2025 season.

Since 2019, Tech3 has collaborated with KTM, and in 2025, they will strengthen their partnership by adopting the same team colors as the factory squad for riders Enea Bastianini and Maverick Vinales.

Goyon mentioned that Tech3 experienced a typical winter in terms of getting ready, regardless of KTM's financial circumstances.

He mentioned that KTM has consistently reassured them by saying, "Be prepared, as we are on track to race in 2025 as originally scheduled, without any changes to our plan." This was his response when Crash.net inquired about the guarantees KTM provided to the French team during the winter.

"Therefore, it is evident that we made our usual preparations last winter."

"Our team had numerous tasks to tackle, transitioning from GASGAS to KTM. This is a process we are accustomed to, and to be frank, we've followed the same routine as we do annually."

"The message from their team was straightforward: 'We'll compete as usual, so stay calm and prepare for Sepang.' And that's exactly what we followed."

As Tech3 aligns its branding with KTM’s factory team and boasts a formidable lineup featuring Vinales and Bastianini, Goyon characterized the 2025 season as a realization of his dreams.

"In all honesty, one of our goals since Tech3 transitioned from Yamaha to KTM has been to become an extension of KTM's factory team," he stated.

"We aimed to maintain a very close relationship with the factory, something we found somewhat lacking with Yamaha."

"This is one of the factors that led us to make a change."

"This year, possessing identical colors and such a robust selection is truly a dream realized for us."

"We are involved in the project. Even before, we felt included, but now, with this uniform design and matching colors, the leaders at Pierer Mobility aimed to demonstrate the company's robust presence. By having four riders and four bikes that look quite similar, they wanted to highlight the company's strength."

"As Tech3, we're extremely delighted and take great pride in this accomplishment."

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Marc Marquez: Bangkok event benefits MotoGP

Top MotoGP racers express opinions on the 2025 kickoff event

Marc Marquez expressed that the MotoGP's new kickoff event, held in Bangkok, Thailand, before the 2025 season, is beneficial for the sport.

In a groundbreaking event, MotoGP held a launch in Bangkok, Thailand, showcasing all 11 teams and nearly the entire roster of 22 riders.

Current world champion Jorge Martin did not participate due to an injury, and the same was true for VR46 Ducati's Fabio Di Giannantonio and Trackhouse Aprilia's Raul Fernandez.

On February 9th, the event kicked off with a chance for photos featuring the 19 riders present, positioned in front of the Marble Temple. The motorcycles were then showcased as they traveled through the streets on tuk-tuks.

The highlight of the event took place on a stage at ONE Bangkok, where the riders performed demonstration rides on street motorcycles before interacting with the fans.

Motorcycle racers tossed souvenirs to the fans and penned their signatures for autographs, as each bike maker revved up one of their models to fill the streets of Bangkok with the roar of MotoGP.

Although the event didn't unveil any liveries as initially anticipated when it was announced late last year, the launch still marked a significant move for MotoGP in broadening its international presence.

Eight-time world champion Marc Marquez expressed to MotoGP.com that he believes the new event is beneficial for the sport.

Ultimately, all of us as riders are present, representing the sport, so it's essential for us to do so.

The MotoGP event was arranged excellently. The main goal remains to reach a broader audience, as this is how our sport can expand.

Fabio Quartararo, who won the world championship in 2021, commented, "We somewhat represent the image of the sport."

"We need to participate as well, and for the fans, this marks the first occasion where MotoGP is taking this action."

"There are hopes for numerous events and team introductions to take place in various locations."

Joan Mir, a Honda racer and the world champion of 2020, shared similar sentiments, describing the occasion as "extremely significant."

"Certainly, these various elements contribute to enhancing and expanding MotoGP, which in turn helps us as riders to improve and grow," Mir stated.

"It's enjoyable to participate. We're having a great time at the events right now. I'm pleased to kick off the launch here in Bangkok; it's a significant occasion for me."

The last pre-season test for MotoGP will take place in Thailand at Buriram from February 12 to 13, ahead of the start of the 2025 season with the Thai Grand Prix, scheduled from February 28 to March 2.

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Maverick Vinales outlines his aspirations for the 2025 MotoGP season

The new KTM team member shares his goals for the upcoming season.

Maverick Vinales has established an objective for himself in the 2025 MotoGP season as he transitions to a different manufacturer.

Vinales has departed from Aprilia and is set to join the KTM Tech3 team, where he will be included in a strong group of four riders for the brand.

In the previous season, Vinales achieved victory at the Circuit of the Americas, becoming the only rider outside of the Ducati team to win a grand prix.

Regarding the 2025 season, he expressed that his aim is to perform at his best during every session.

"It's crucial to stay focused during the first year when transitioning to a new bike."

"Be receptive to different emotions and fresh experiences."

Whenever you visit a new racing track, it's an entirely unique experience compared to past visits. You must maintain an open mindset and concentrate intently. My goal is to stay focused and perform to the best of my ability.

"Naturally, securing victories and competing at the forefront will be essential and highly significant for our team."

Vinales aspires to achieve a historic milestone by securing a MotoGP victory with a fourth different manufacturer, having previously won with Yamaha, Suzuki, and Aprilia.

"It's essentially making history to achieve victories with four distinct manufacturers, so naturally, it's an objective," he stated.

"Seeing my name in the record books is incredibly rewarding and serves as a major source of motivation for me."

"Certainly, it's included in the strategy and the goal, but we must keep in mind that the ultimate aim is to be ranked No. 1 by the year's end."

"That's the true objective…"

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For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, where he reported on a variety of events including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1.

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Ducati highlights Marc Marquez's significant influence on marketing

Ducati discloses that Marc Marquez is benefiting them beyond the racetrack as well

Marc Marquez joining Ducati is proving beneficial both on the track and behind the scenes.

As he focuses on working on the GP25 during the MotoGP testing at Sepang, he is also enhancing Ducati's marketing efforts.

Ducati is aware that they have a racer who has won the world championship eight times and is currently the most recognizable figure in the sport.

"We are quite pleased with how our communications efforts have been going," sporting director Mauro Grassilli mentioned to GPOne.

"We did have some audience before, but I believe Marc is helping us connect with a group that was previously harder to engage."

"He is also assisting us in that regard."

According to the brand, Francesco Bagnaia, who is part of the same Ducati team, is also making progress in these areas.

Despite holding two titles, Bagnaia has not yet reached the peak of his fame or popularity beyond the dedicated MotoGP fanbase.

However, Grassilli firmly believes he is making progress: "Absolutely. We must not forget that Pecco holds the title of world champion."

"He is someone who is excelling both in racing and in his personal life. While there is still progress to be made, he is actively involved in numerous activities outside of racing. These efforts are not only boosting the profile of Ducati as a brand but are also enhancing the reputation of Francesco Bagnaia as a racer, a professional, and an athlete."

For the 2025 MotoGP season, Ducati is set to continue its partnership with Lenovo as their main sponsor.

However, not all factory teams will have a main sponsor. In particular, Honda's partnership with Repsol has come to an end.

Grassilli from Ducati is worried.

"Since I began working at a more advanced level in this field, I've always wanted to collaborate with partners from different industries," he stated.

"In order for us to communicate with a broader audience beyond just motorcycle fans through our sponsors."

"It's worrisome to observe other teams that either lack main sponsors or have minimal sponsorships from different industries, if they have any at all."

"We are interacting with the same individuals, which is not what Ducati aims for, nor should it be the objective of the championship."

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Raul Fernandez, who is currently dealing with an injury, is set to travel to Thailand for the MotoGP test in Buriram. "Raul is scheduled to arrive

Having recently undergone surgery, Raul Fernandez is aiming to participate in the last MotoGP pre-season test this week in Buriram.

Last Wednesday, during the initial day of the 2025 official testing at Sepang, a Spanish rider was one of three competitors who sustained injuries, suffering a fracture to a metacarpal bone in his left hand.

World champion Jorge Martin, who has fractures in his hand and foot, and Fabio di Giannantonio, suffering from a broken collarbone, have also traveled back to Europe with Fernandez to undergo surgical procedures.

Martin and di Giannantonio are set to miss the last test in Buriram. However, on Sunday during the MotoGP Season Launch, Davide Brivio, the team principal of Fernandez's Trackhouse, announced that the Spanish rider plans to attempt to participate.

"Raul is doing well and is set to arrive in Thailand tomorrow. He plans to conduct tests over the next two days," Brivio stated in Bangkok.

"It might be somewhat challenging, yet it's crucial for him to complete a few laps ahead of the season's commencement."

"We're optimistic that he'll be in excellent condition."

Fernandez managed to run 24 laps before he encountered a high-speed crash while trying to slow down for Turn 9.

Aprilia has announced that Martin will be absent until the season's first race in Thailand later this month.

On Sunday, VR46's Pablo Nieto mentioned that di Giannantonio "will be prepared for the opening race."

The test event in Buriram is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday.

For the past two decades, Peter has spent his time in the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is currently leading the narrative on Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's struggles with injuries.

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2025 MotoGP Kickoff in Bangkok: Real-Time Coverage

Stay tuned for live coverage of the MotoGP 2025 kickoff event happening in Bangkok. The new season of MotoGP is scheduled to kick off in Thailand at the end of this month, with the series spending a significant part of February in the country.

The last pre-season test of the year is scheduled for February 12th and 13th at the Buriram circuit, with the season officially starting there from March 28th to February 2nd.

To kick off the 2025 MotoGP season, an official launch event will be held in Bangkok. All 11 teams will participate in a day filled with activities for the Thai fans.

For the first time, MotoGP has organized an official launch event for the upcoming season. However, no new team liveries will be showcased since they have already been revealed prior to the event.

The event kicks off at 9:30 a.m. GMT, featuring a parade where all MotoGP riders ride their bikes through the city. After the parade, they will appear on stage in front of the audience.

World champion Jorge Martin will be absent following a surgery to treat fractures he sustained during a crash on the first day of the Sepang test.

Fabio Di Giannantonio from VR46 and Raul Fernandez of Trackhouse Racing are unable to participate in the event because they were injured during pre-season testing.

According to Davide Brivio, Raul Fernandez is expected to participate in the Buriram test next week after undergoing surgery for a fracture in his left hand last week.

When it comes to handling the dynamic between world champions Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia, Dall'Igna commented, "To be frank, it's not particularly challenging. Undoubtedly, they are among the quickest racers in MotoGP, but they're also intelligent. This definitely aids us in managing them. They fully understand that the top priority right now is collaborating to develop the best bike possible to compete for race wins and championships. Therefore, it's actually quite straightforward, to be honest."

Applause for Gigi Dall'Igna!

"It's incredible. I sincerely appreciate the warm welcome. I'm truly pleased to be here."

Pablo Nieto, the head of the VR46 team, has stated that Di Giannantonio "will be prepared for the opening race" after suffering a collarbone injury during a testing accident last week.

When questioned about Marc Marquez's appearance in blue, Gresini's Michele Masini confidently affirmed, "Absolutely, in my opinion, there's no question about it…"

Bold to speak up with Ducati's top executive, Gigi Dall'Igna, sitting right next to him!

Directly addressing the tough questions for Rivola: Are you planning to retain the top spot this year?

"In my opinion, it's premature and overly optimistic to conclude at this point…"

A new group of team leaders has taken the stage, led by Massimo Rivola from Aprilia.

When questioned about Jorge Martin's condition, Rivola explains: "He underwent surgery yesterday, and naturally, he's feeling somewhat improved today. However, the real test now begins as he works on recovering swiftly."

When Tech3 boss Goyon was questioned about what they would consider a successful outcome, he stated, "Obviously, a victory. With the exceptional skills of our two team members, triumphing in a race is an obvious goal."

Tech3 has set ambitious goals for this year, featuring factory KTM riders Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini. The team has not secured a grand prix victory since 2020.

When questioned about the experience of becoming a world champion with an independent team, Gino Borsoi, the head of Pramac, expressed, "It was truly an amazing moment. The emotions were fantastic and unbelievable. We reached an extraordinary milestone, and we did so because we function as a family."

I'm

Paolo Pavesio expressed their dedication to restoring Yamaha's status, acknowledging that there are no quick solutions. He emphasized the need for hard work and increased international collaboration, with engineers from Europe and Japan joining forces. Ultimately, their goal is to deliver unforgettable experiences and create cherished memories for Yamaha fans on the racetrack.

The audience erupted in applause once more as Cecchinello discussed the prospect of promoting Chantra, Thailand's inaugural rider, to the top-tier category with LCR.

The commentators on stage believe that LCR could be the favorite team in Asia. That's quite a bold statement!

Puig addresses Honda's difficulties: "We will continue to battle as we always have."

Honda enters the new season following a strong pre-season test of its latest motorcycle, aiming to improve its position on the grid after a disappointing performance in 2024.

Puig expressed enthusiasm about having Somkiat Chantra, a hometown rider, on their team.

The Thai audience gave modest applause for their newfound MotoGP champion.

Opening the event are Honda's Alberto Puig, KTM's Aki Ajo, Tech3's Nico Goyon, Yamaha's Paolo Pavesio, Pramac's Gino Borsoi, and LCR's Lucio Cecchinello.

Live coverage from the event in Bangkok features all the MotoGP motorcycles on display.

Interviews with team managers and racers will be conducted here throughout the day.

Today, all the MotoGP motorcycles were escorted through the city streets as they headed to a temple for a photo session.

VR46 has shared a few photos capturing the day's events up to this point.

Franco Morbidelli is starting his eighth MotoGP season at the Thai Grand Prix this year, marking his debut riding for Valentino Rossi's team in his racing career.

Join us for the #MotoGPLaunch event taking place in Bangkok 🇹🇭🤗. Our first stop is the stunning Marble Temple 😍. #MonsterYamaha | #YamahaMotoGP | #MotoGP | #FabioQuartararo | #FQ20 | #AlexRins | #Rins42 | #AR42 | @MotoGPpic.twitter.com/ptxBZsa29h

Regrettably for fans in Thailand, current world champion Jorge Martin will not be present at the launch event in Bangkok.

On Friday, he had an operation to address the broken bones he sustained in an accident during the first day of the Sepang test.

Raul Fernandez and Fabio Di Giannantonio are currently recuperating from their injuries at home.

This event in Bangkok marks the debut of the complete lineup of 2025 liveries gathered together.

You have the opportunity to view all of them by clicking on the link provided below

2025 MotoGP: The Livery Designs of Each Team

Good morning! We're excited to bring you live updates from the 2025 MotoGP Bangkok launch event, starting at 9:30 am UK time.

The MotoGP launch event will kick off in just over two hours, and the excitement is palpable! #MotoGP pic.twitter.com/BdS8IrbhBR

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Pedro Acosta highlights three major areas for improvement in MotoGP 2025

Pedro Acosta points out his weaknesses

Pedro Acosta is aware of the steps he needs to take to enhance his performance in his sophomore MotoGP season.

In the previous year, the newcomer made a significant impact in the top-tier category, securing sixth place in the championship standings and impressively securing a spot on KTM's official team.

By 2025, Acosta, who is now recognized as an established figure and possibly the most promising talent in MotoGP, aims to address three major weaknesses.

"In 2024, he realized that it might be wise to remain calmer and think things through in certain situations," he mentioned.

"It's true that we missed many great chances last year because we were overly ambitious. This year, we plan to be more thoughtful in our approach."

Acosta commented on the enhancements planned for 2025, mentioning the qualifying sessions and the initial laps of the race.

"Last year, there were numerous races where we had the speed to contend for podium finishes or wins, but poor qualifying sessions made it difficult for us to close the gap with the leading pack."

"These two aspects will be the key areas for enhancement this season."

Acosta looked back on his first year, saying, "There were plenty of highlights in 2024, yet we still have a goal we're holding onto and aiming to achieve."

"I discovered how to handle a race and understood that the MotoGP category is significantly distinct from the lower categories."

"We still have numerous objectives to achieve for this."

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EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW: LCR Honda Reveals 2025 MotoGP Design

Introducing the latest appearance of LCR Honda

LCR Honda has unveiled its 2025 MotoGP paint scheme.

The Honda satellite team is set to retain Johann Zarco for a second consecutive year, while introducing Somkiat Chantra as a newcomer for his debut season.

Johann Zarco's stunning design for his Honda LCR Castrol bike has caught the eye! #MotoGP pic.twitter.com/0glu0UZ8Ce— Crash MotoGP (@crash_motogp) February 8, 2025

Zarco's Castro LCR Honda features a recognizable color scheme of green, white, and red.

Last season, Zarco became part of the Honda team and consistently emerged as their top-performing rider during a challenging year for the manufacturer.

With Romano Albesiano stepping in as the new technical director, the LCR team is optimistic about benefiting from the manufacturer's fresh approach.

Somkiat Chantra showcasing the Honda LCR Idemitsu in MotoGP with a nod to Thailand 🇹🇭. Check out the image shared by Crash MotoGP (@crash_motogp) on February 8, 2025, via pic.twitter.com/AjkTmxA3Zf.

Chantra's Idemitsu LCR Honda features a distinct red and white pattern.

Chantra faces a significant challenge as he prepares to ride the motorcycle that performed the poorest on the grid last year.

He starts his journey in the top category at the Thailand MotoGP, which takes place from February 28 to March 2.

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Report: Jorge Martin Absent from Buriram MotoGP Testing

Jorge Martin will begin the 2025 MotoGP season with only 13 laps of pre-season practice on his new Aprilia bike.

Aprilia has announced that current MotoGP titleholder Jorge Martin will not participate in the forthcoming test at Buriram.

This implies that the Spanish rider, who was injured during last week's event in Sepang, will start the first race of the season at Buriram with only 13 laps of the 2025 pre-season testing under his belt.

During the initial hours of the Malaysian test, Martin experienced two highsides, leading to a public disagreement between Aprilia and Michelin regarding the reasons behind the incidents.

The incidents both happened at Turns 1 and 2, with the second one causing Martin to flip dramatically in the air, resulting in broken bones in his right hand and left foot.

"A serious accident occurred unexpectedly, with neither an error from the motorcycle nor from the rider," stated Massimo Rivola, CEO of Aprilia Racing.

This indicated a problem with the tire.

Rivola explained to the media in Sepang that the situation involved the same set of tires. He mentioned that initially, the issue was with the tire on the right side, and later, it was with the one on the left side. He then encouraged others to seek out more details.

Rivola mentioned that the tire's temperature was within the usual range.

Michelin's Piero Taramasso argued that although the surface temperature seemed acceptable, the crucial aspect was the internal temperature of the medium compound rear tire, which is assessed using specific sensors, and it was not satisfactory.

When Martin left the pit box, the tire temperature was already 15 degrees cooler than usual compared to his initial stint. This meant the tire was colder. Additionally, at the time of his crash, the tire's temperature was 15 degrees lower than that of his teammate Marco Bezzecchi, who was using the same tire.

The temperature in question refers to the internal layer, specifically measured by the infrared sensor located inside. According to Massimo, when he provided his update, both the pressure and the temperature were within acceptable ranges.

"This refers to the temperature on the surface. Surface temperature can be measured easily and rapidly, but what really matters is the temperature within the inner layers. On the surface, high friction might show temperatures of 160 degrees, while inside the tire, it might only be around 100 degrees."

"The key factor for the tire is the temperature of the carcass, as it indicates whether the tire is functioning properly," he explained.

According to Taramasso, the crash occurred due to the lower inner tyre temperature and unfavorable track conditions, which included factors such as being very slippery, windy, and cold, with temperatures at only 30 degrees instead of the usual 50 degrees, along with overnight rain.

However, Rivola quickly dismissed that assertion, stating, "Concerning the accident, I want to clarify that our data does not support the claims made by Piero Taramasso."

"The safety of the riders should come first, in my opinion. I've recommended that he organize a meeting with all the teams to address what is obviously a serious issue, as shown by the high number of injuries."

"Jorge will not participate in the test in Thailand."

At the same time, Martin traveled back to Europe and had surgery on Friday morning to fix the injury to his hand. However, the broken bone in his left foot does not need surgical intervention.

Following the announcement that Martin has been "released from Clinica Dexeus in Barcelona and will return to his residence in Andorra," Aprilia stated that "Jorge will miss the Thai test to best prepare for the Thai GP."

Test rider Lorenzo Savadori is set to assume some of Martin's testing responsibilities once more.

On the first day of the Official Sepang test, Fabio di Giannantonio from VR46 and Raul Fernandez from Trackhouse sustained injuries. As a result, they are both likely to be absent from the Buriram event scheduled for February 12-13.

The Thai racing event kicks off with practice sessions on Friday, February 28.

Martin is set to participate in the event with 90 laps on the RS-GP under his belt. However, 77 of those laps were completed during last November's post-season test in Barcelona, where he rode an early version of the 2025 model.

Marco Bezzecchi, who is a member of the team, was the highest-placed Aprilia rider during the Sepang test, finishing in eighth position.

Due to Martin's injury, the MotoGP Season Launch event scheduled for Sunday in Bangkok will proceed without the attendance of the current champion.

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For two decades, Peter has been a presence in the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is closely following the developments surrounding Suzuki's departure and the ongoing injury challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

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Aprilia's latest technology chief highlights unexpected element of Marco Bezzecchi's expertise

Fabiano Sterlacchini details unexpected delight in Sepang

Fabiano Sterlacchini experienced a pleasant unexpected delight during his initial encounter with Marco Bezzecchi, an encounter that is expected to enhance Aprilia's prospects.

The factory rider and the technical director have been with Aprilia since the conclusion of the previous season.

They recently dedicated a three-day session at Sepang to work on their 2025 motorcycle model collaboratively.

"Sterlacchini praised Bezzecchi, saying, 'He is extremely talented.'"

Observing from a distance, it seemed to me that Marco possessed exceptional talent, though he appeared to lack technical expertise.

"The unexpected delight was well received!"

"The task we're undertaking, configuring the bicycle with various mechanical components, presents an intriguing approach to work due to its notably serene nature."

"We're configuring the bicycle in a consistent manner, enabling us to evaluate a single component while ensuring the data collected is statistically reliable."

Aprilia's technical director details advancements

The challenge intensified for Aprilia, and specifically for Sterlacchini, after Jorge Martin and Raul Fernandez were injured only a few laps into the Sepang trials, leaving the team without the services of two of its riders.

Consequently, they had to modify their testing strategies.

"Sterlacchini noted, "This represents one of the challenges, the tough aspect of our profession."

"Day by day, we're making adjustments based on the outcomes of the test items."

"We have designated spaces for each item and will adhere to this arrangement."

Bezzecchi has acknowledged the strength of the Aprilia engine, yet wondered about the bike's ability to fully utilize it.

"Sterlacchini emphasized that in discussing the bike's progress and transformation, it's essential to examine each aspect of the bicycle."

"This marks a key moment as it enables the cyclist to maximize the bike's potential, delving into the capabilities of the back tire."

"The electronics function as a mysterious entity, dictating the amount of power the engine should generate."

Sterlacchini is committed to addressing Aprilia's issue with slow starts.

"Absolutely," he confirmed. "Our attention is on the company, assigning various sectors and responsibilities."

"Beginning at the front is crucial. With the latest MotoGP machines equipped with advanced aerodynamics and increased horsepower, kicking off from the rear positions makes the race challenging."

"Beginning at the forefront is crucial for achieving high performance."

Sterlacchini carries his expertise from Ducati and KTM into his latest position.

He understands that the primary challenge is to decrease the gap with the leading Ducatis and ultimately surpass them.

"It's consistently challenging. Without a doubt, we're definitely in a favorable position," he mentioned.

The company places an exceptional emphasis on the human element.

"The background in racing dates back many years."

"Tasks await completion. From what I've observed, there's room for enhancement."

"Our inventory includes a significant amount of supplies from the corporation, alongside components like electronics that were developed on-site."

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For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter for Sky Sports, where he covered a wide range of sports including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1.

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Two MotoGP competitors, despite suffering three fractures, are strategizing an expedited return

Recovery periods for injuries disclosed

Fabio di Giannantonio and Raul Fernandez are optimistic about making a swift return to action despite the recent injuries they have suffered.

During the official MotoGP Sepang test, VR46's Di Giannantonio and Trackhouse's Fernandez suffered bone fractures.

The two competitors were deemed unable to participate for the remainder of the trial and needed surgical procedures to repair the injuries.

Di Giannantonio sustained a broken collarbone, whereas Fernandez experienced a fracture in the metacarpal bone of his left hand along with a toe injury.

However, they could potentially return to cycling sooner than anticipated.

"According to VR46's Uccio Salucci, who spoke to Sky Italy, it seems likely that Fabio will undergo surgery this weekend."

"I anticipate encountering him once more in Buriram, though not during next week's trial, but rather at the race event."

Check out this Instagram post from Raúl Fernández (@raulfernandez_25)

Fernandez has already undergone surgery.

"First and foremost, my gratitude goes to Xavier Mir, who consistently shows me the utmost kindness," Fernandez shared.

"Now I need to focus on my recovery and make plans to visit Thailand. I appreciate all the supportive messages from everyone!"

The inaugural Thailand MotoGP of the season is scheduled for February 28 to March 2.

This indicates that both Di Giannantonio and Fernandez have a three-week period for recuperation.

However, in that period, they will not participate in the Buriram preseason test, which means they will start the first race – assuming they can make it – significantly behind their competitors in terms of preparation.

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