Marc Marquez: Recent GP25 Improvements Noticeable, Yet Sepang MotoGP Test Reveals Ongoing Issues

Eight-time world champion kicks off pre-season testing with promising performance

Marc Marquez has noted that the newest Ducati development, introduced during the Sepang MotoGP test, shows some improvement over the GP25 model he tested in November. However, he did mention that there are still "some problems" that need to be addressed.

Last year, Marquez competed using the GP23 at Gresini. He experienced the factory Ducati equipment for the first time during the post-season test in November, where he rode both the GP24 and a prototype of the GP25.

Ducati introduced a new bike at the Sepang test this week, building on the GP25 model used in Barcelona. During the test session in Malaysia on Wednesday, Marquez clocked the second-fastest time of the day.

Marquez mentions that the general "idea" of the bike remains consistent, although in certain aspects it seems "improved," even though there are some initial problems that need addressing.

Marquez expressed that right from the initial ride, he felt extremely comfortable on the bike, as if he hadn't spent two months away from MotoGP.

"This simplifies matters significantly, as having that sense allows for more accurate feedback, which is crucial right now given that we are experimenting with numerous ideas."

"Today, we focused on the top priority, which was the engine. This is similar to what every manufacturer does because once you approve the engine, it remains unchanged throughout the entire year."

"We aimed to concentrate on the tasks at hand. A particularly encouraging aspect was that Pecco and I once again shared the same observations."

Within the team, the two riders began pursuing separate approaches while aiming to achieve the same objective.

"Alright, we're gradually working to achieve the right balance for the bike. Often, when a new bike hits the track, it can present various issues. However, the team is effectively addressing these challenges."

Essentially, the idea of the bike for the cyclist while riding remains mostly the same.

"There are a few distinctions compared to the November bike."

"There is some truth to the fact that they are beginning to address the issues. It's slightly improved compared to Barcelona. However, the 2024 model is a bike that will be available for a year, and once you start using it, it performs well."

"When you get a new bicycle, you have to learn how to balance it and discover various aspects about it."

"That's why Pecco [Bagnaia] and I are approaching things differently, yet we exchange many of our observations."

"Three days might seem like a substantial amount of time, but it's actually very limited. It's extremely brief."

Marc Marquez Highlights Characteristics of GP25

Marquez notes that the GP25 stands out due to its noticeably "smoother" engine, and he believes Ducati has successfully extracted additional power from it.

"The engine seems to be running more smoothly, which is a positive trait for the rider," he mentioned.

"You constantly seek to increase power, and we've managed to do that to some extent. However, we now need to address some issues, which I believe can be resolved with electronics and related technologies."

He mentioned that he is "very satisfied with the braking stability" of the GP25.

Marquez mentions that he is in better physical shape compared to the start of the 2024 pre-season. However, he acknowledges that his age and past injuries are affecting his readiness.

"I'm feeling really great today," he mentioned.

"However, we will find out tomorrow. I anticipate feeling more unwell physically. It's noteworthy that this is the first winter like this. Last year, the winter went well, but I underwent surgery for the arm pump."

"During the winter, I focused on training effectively. I paid close attention to my motocross sessions to ensure I was in top physical shape."

"Naturally, I have to put in extra effort and work harder than I'm accustomed to, as being 32 might be a contributing factor."

"I believe it has a lot to do with all the injuries I've experienced, so I have to put in extra effort. I accept this reality and commit to it. Out of the 24 hours in my day, I dedicate 12 to taking care of my body."

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Rephr

Vinales Sets Benchmarks for a "Successful" Sepang MotoGP Trial

Vinales to spend three days acclimatizing to KTM in Malaysia

Maverick Vinales mentioned that a "productive" pre-season MotoGP test at Sepang with the KTM would help him "grasp the bike's maximum potential" rather than focus on performance metrics.

The racer, who has clinched victory in 10 grand prix events, will join KTM to compete under the Tech3 satellite team banner starting in 2025, after spending three and a half years racing with Aprilia's factory team.

Vinales expressed satisfaction with his initial trial of the RC16 in Barcelona last November but mentioned that he doesn't have specific performance objectives for his upcoming visit to Sepang this week.

"To tell the truth, I'll be occupied with my own matters," he remarked.

Adjusting to a new bicycle involves considerable effort.

"The experience is always fascinating, so I'm eager to fully immerse myself in the adaptation process. We'll find out, but I'm quite intrigued to discover how it feels on a unique circuit like Sepang."

"For me, achieving success in the test means grasping the motorcycle's threshold, comprehending the outcomes during a time trial, discerning the bike's behavior in racing conditions, and figuring out the dynamics when attempting to tail another rider."

Answering all these queries correctly will be crucial for me to ace the exam.

"Clearly, I'm not sufficiently familiar with the bike to determine what's improved or not."

"The sensation is palpable, and the indications are clear. However, my primary goal is to address the myriad of queries swirling in my thoughts."

Maverick Vinales eyes satellite team potential in 2025 MotoGP season

2025 marks Vinales' debut year with a MotoGP satellite team, which maintains a strong connection with the main factory team, as evidenced by all four KTMs sharing the same color scheme this season.

Vinales views the transition to a satellite team positively, especially after Pramac's victory in the championship last year, led by Jorge Martin.

"He also mentioned that the atmosphere was pleasant."

"Each of us is dedicated to a singular purpose, and I truly believe this is crucial."

"Previously, a satellite team determined the outcome of the championship, hence currently, it doesn't seem to be a matter of debate."

"Perhaps in past years, indeed, in a different time. But today, the bicycles are completely identical, without any differences."

"The sentiment among the team members is upbeat and optimistic, suggesting that this is likely to yield excellent results."

"At the moment, the priority is to maintain simplicity and ensure we proceed efficiently."

"In conclusion, assistance is also provided by the manufacturing facility. On a technical level, it appears to be the case, yet upon closer inspection, it does not seem to match that expectation."

Remarks offered by Peter McLaren, the Editor at Crash MotoGP

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Fabio Quartararo clarifies the significance of a single-word alert on his dashboard, which serves as a reminder for him. He mentions that his natural tendency when he is on the track is to push himself to the limit.

On the opening day of the Sepang MotoGP official test, Fabio Quartararo was on his third day of riding in Malaysia. He keeps a single-word note in his cockpit as a reminder.

On the first day in Sepang, Quartararo was seen with the word 'smooth' displayed in his rider cockpit. He mentioned that this was an intentional move to adapt his riding technique.

"Quartararo mentioned that it was last year, particularly when they began focusing on the electronics, specifically from Thailand, that he noticed how the Ducati was performing in a certain manner. He expressed his desire to completely overhaul the electronics himself."

"When I'm on the track, my natural tendency is to push as hard as possible and make the most of every moment with the bike."

"Occasionally, a sense of going slower can actually help you go faster. To remind myself of this, I always have the word 'smooth' on my dashboard, which encourages me to remain composed while riding."

In general, Quartararo expressed optimism regarding his initial day at the official testing.

"We primarily focused on testing some electronics today, revisiting various settings that we had extensively examined during the Shakedown. It was essentially a reconfirmation," he explained.

"It was a positive day, particularly for the engineers, as it provided insight into the path we need to take."

Quartararo commented, "I prefer not to be overly optimistic from the start. I believe our approach is effective."

"It's just the initial day of the examination, and we still need to observe the remaining ones as well."

"It's clear that numerous participants started off at a rapid pace on the opening day, yet we have now been here for three days."

"We must maintain a neutral stance, focus on doing our job effectively, and we'll find out our position when we get to Thailand."

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Marco Bezzecchi highlights a standout feature of Aprilia that truly captivated him

Marco Bezzecchi provides a first impression of his recent Aprilia experience

Marco Bezzecchi has expressed his admiration for the Aprilia, even after parting ways with a Ducati.

Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin are set to be Aprilia's refreshed factory team pairing this year, however, each will need to adjust from their previous roles on varying Ducati models.

Martin secured the 2024 MotoGP championship riding a top-specification Ducati, whereas Bezzecchi struggled to adapt to the 2023 model he competed with in the previous season.

Sporting Aprilia's livery, he's optimistic about embarking on a new chapter, starting with the official Sepang test happening this week.

"Bezzecchi mentioned, “I require additional time cycling. But all things considered, I have no grievances.”

"We have identified both strengths and areas for improvement that we will focus on enhancing."

Overall, I have no grievances regarding the bicycle or its manufacturing.

"The initial sensation? Right away, I sensed it was truly excellent."

"The response from the forefront was incredible; it truly met my expectations."

"I found it genuinely remarkable."

"Discovering this assurance with the front end right away is fantastic, as it's more crucial than the back end when riding."

Bezzecchi transitions from Ducati to Aprilia

A significant change from last season's Ducati for Bezzecchi is the introduction of a manual ride height adjustment mechanism on his Aprilia.

"He maintained it was changed, yet not inferior."

"At times, it's beneficial to possess a gadget that operates instantly. It's not a switch, but rather a lever."

"I have to adapt to it. At Montmelo, we began our efforts on this front. I began to grasp the optimal timing for activating the device.

"In this place, I will be granted additional days to gain understanding."

Lorenzo Savadori conducted testing for Aprilia during the previous weekend's Shakedown.

Bezzecchi mentioned, "We had conversations with Sava as well as the entire Trackhouse team, including specifically the factory."

The team at Aprilia Racing has put in a great deal of effort this winter. It's time for us to provide our input.

"Starting off on the right foot is essential."

We maintained communication all through the colder months.

Following the Montmelo race, we shared our insights on the motorcycle's performance. Throughout the winter, they focused on addressing our comments and suggestions.

"My remarks and those made by Jorge were alike, giving them a straightforward path to adhere to."

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Jorge Martin Discusses His “Fixation” and Initial Goal with Aprilia

"I plan to maintain my approach from the previous season…”

Defending MotoGP world champion Jorge Martin has expressed that his primary goal for his debut season with Aprilia is to reach his highest potential, instead of concentrating solely on achieving specific outcomes.

Martin carries the prestigious #1 plate over to Aprilia following his championship victory with Ducati, a team that reversed its decision last year to elevate him to its premier squad.

The global titleholder completed a day of trials on the RS-GP in Barcelona last November and will proceed with getting accustomed to the motorcycle during this week's pre-season testing in Sepang.

As the reigning world champion and now a member of a factory team, there's a lot of anticipation surrounding Martin's performance in the upcoming season – however, he doesn't view it from the same perspective.

"Currently, I'm not experiencing any stress," he stated.

"What I'm aiming for is to achieve positive outcomes. However, I plan to maintain the same mindset I had in the previous season."

"I didn't have my sights set on victory. My aim was to improve daily, to become the best version of myself."

"I am deeply passionate about becoming the greatest version of myself, and when that moment arrives, it simply happens."

Jorge Martin senses a duty at Aprilia

"In my attempt to influence the mindset around here, I noticed upon my arrival that everyone was fixated on 'winning is a must, winning is a must'," he mentioned.

"However, victory isn't our primary goal. Our focus is on giving it our all and then assessing our capabilities. We possess considerable potential, but only time will reveal our true standing."

He stated, "I believe the stress I experienced last season will unlikely be matched at any point in my life."

"I don't experience pressure, rather I sense a sense of duty. It's about duty, not pressure."

"Competing for a championship brings immense pressure, the most intense kind. Reflecting on my experiences over the past few years, especially last year, it was an insane journey."

"Now, I'm truly at ease, eager to showcase my abilities."

"I've shed a significant burden and now my concentration is solely on excelling. Undoubtedly, bearing the weight of the entire factory's expectations is a responsibility."

Martin mentions that developing the close-knit "family" bond he experienced at Pramac is a gradual process at Aprilia due to his recent involvement with the team. However, he believes he has established a more solid connection with the leadership at Aprilia than he previously had at Ducati.

"He expressed the sentiment that, without a doubt, they have not yet achieved the level of cohesion reminiscent of the Pramac team."

"Arriving after spending four years with the same group and organization is notably challenging."

"I've brought along a few individuals from Pramac. I was already familiar with some folks at Aprilia through Aleix [Espargaro], so it seems like the team is meshing well together.

Additionally, it feels like a large familial community where I now share a connection with the supervisors, something that was previously non-existent for me.

"Therefore, I believe I'm genuinely involved in the project now and can contribute significantly. It's like when you step into this space, you're surrounded by a positive atmosphere. So, this is truly wonderful."

Statements furnished by Peter McLaren, the Editor for Crash MotoGP

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2025 MotoGP Official Sepang Test: Fabio Quartararo Sets the Pace Ahead of Marc Marquez on Opening Day

Exciting Start to Testing in Malaysia

On the first day of the 2025 MotoGP test in Sepang, Fabio Quartararo from Yamaha took the lead ahead of Marc Marquez, while the current champion, Jorge Martin, experienced a significant accident.

Fabio Quartararo dominated the timing charts for a significant portion of the initial testing day at Sepang, following his earlier participation in the shakedown session the previous week.

The Yamaha factory rider concluded the day with the quickest time, clocking in at 1 minute and 57.555 seconds, while conducting a testing program with three M1 motorcycles.

Overall, Yamaha has a lineup of 12 motorcycles shared among its factory team riders, the Pramac team, and test rider Augusto Fernandez, as the company aims to improve its position on the racing grid.

Quartararo was in the lead at the conclusion of the second hour, clocking a time of 1 minute 57.999 seconds, and then bettered that with a time of 1 minute 57.754 seconds.

With slightly more than 30 minutes remaining, Quartararo established a fresh standard with a time of 1 minute and 57.555 seconds, which is a little more than one second shy of the absolute lap record at Sepang.

The 2021 world champion faced a late challenge from Marc Marquez, the factory Ducati racer, who clocked a time of 1 minute 57.606 seconds after completing 54 laps on the GP25.

He led his brother, Alex Marquez, who rides for Gresini Ducati and had a moment at the front on Wednesday. Meanwhile, his rookie teammate, Fermin Aldeguer, was 0.297 seconds behind, securing fourth place.

Aldeguer participated in the shakedown event last week, which contributed to his strong placement on the first day's leaderboard.

The significant event on Wednesday involved a severe accident for current world champion Martin, who was thrown off his Aprilia motorcycle at Turn 2 earlier that day.

Martin, who experienced two crashes during his second day riding an Aprilia, has been transported to the hospital to undergo additional examinations.

The day of testing was marked by numerous crashes, with several riders experiencing falls. Among them was Franco Morbidelli from VR46 Ducati, who fortunately emerged unscathed and secured the fifth spot on his GP24.

Joan Mir was the leading Honda rider, finishing in sixth place. He was followed by Fabio Di Giannantonio from VR46, who made a comeback after missing the previous two rounds in 2024 due to undergoing surgery for a shoulder injury.

Jack Miller secured the eighth position representing the Pramac Yamaha team, finishing ahead of LCR Honda's Johann Zarco and Miguel Oliveira, who was riding the other Pramac M1.

Pedro Acosta, who had a minor fall earlier, was the top KTM rider, finishing in 11th place.

He led his teammate Brad Binder and Maverick Vinales, who was riding the Tech3 KTM. Francesco Bagnaia, on his factory Ducati, secured the 17th position with a time of 1 minute and 58.947 seconds, while Marco Bezzecchi, representing Aprilia, finished in 18th place.

Raul Fernandez, a rider for Trackhouse Aprilia, experienced a serious accident on the first day at Sepang and has been sidelined because of his injuries. He is currently returning to Barcelona to undergo surgery.

Results from the First Day of Testing at Sepang

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2025 MotoGP Sepang Test Guide: Today's Viewing Details

A guide on the schedule, times, and ways to stay updated with the three-day MotoGP Sepang test event.

Here's your guide to keeping up with the 2025 MotoGP Sepang trials happening from February 5th to 7th. Additionally, we've provided the start times for the MotoGP Sepang trials below.

MotoGP competitors are set to make their comeback on the circuit for a trio of days dedicated to official preseason evaluations in Malaysia.

Novice riders and newcomers, along with Yamaha and Honda competitors (due to the allowances in the regulations), have been getting their motorcycles ready during the initial Shakedown trials.

This week at Sepang, Marc Marquez is set to take his Ducati team bike for a spin, while Jorge Martin keeps getting accustomed to the Aprilia.

The Sepang trial serves as an essential phase for both teams and riders to fine-tune their equipment before the upcoming season begins.

GUIDE ON TRACKING THE 2025 MOTOGP SEPANG TRIALS FROM ANY LOCATION

Viewers won't have access to a continuous live broadcast covering each lap of the MotoGP Sepang trials in 2025.

Nonetheless, the last half-hour will be broadcast through the MotoGP Video Pass service.

Stay tuned to Crash.net for real-time updates on timings. We'll also deliver the latest track news, including technological advancements and exclusive interviews.

Follow our MotoGP X on Crash.net and CrashMotoGP on Instagram for top-notch photos and videos.

MotoGP.com is set to air a program titled 'After The Flag' towards the end of each day, providing a recap of the day's events.

2025 MotoGP Sepang trial schedules

Wednesday, February 5 from 10am to 6pm local time / 2am to 10am UK time

Thursday, February, from 6 am to 6 pm local time / 2 am to 10 am UK time

Friday, February, from 7:10 AM to 6:00 PM local time / 2:00 AM to 10

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Trackhouse leader comments on the "bizarre" incident involving Raul Fernandez in Sepang.

Davide Brivio discusses the timeline for Raul Fernandez's recovery after injury.

Davide Brivio, the head of the Trackhouse MotoGP team, described Raul Fernandez's crash that concluded the test at Sepang as "somewhat unusual."

On the opening day of Aprilia's pre-season, which was marked by the reigning world champion Jorge Martin being hospitalized following a severe accident, Fernandez has been ruled out from continuing after experiencing a mishap at Turn 9.

Fernandez has sustained a fracture in the metacarpal bone of his left hand along with a broken little toe. He is currently on his way back to Barcelona to undergo surgery.

In an interview with MotoGP's After the Flag, Brivio mentioned that it was somewhat unusual as he remained composed and unhurried.

"Regrettably, he experienced an accident while trying to brake at Turn 9."

"He has now broken his left hand. We're arranging for him to return to Barcelona, where he will attempt to undergo surgery at the earliest opportunity."

He is hopeful about being ready to return for the Thailand event, as is typical with riders.

"Let's wait and hear from the doctors about the situation and how the surgery proceeds. We'll conduct all necessary tests, and in the next few days, we'll have a clearer understanding of what's happening."

Trackhouse Remarks on the Comeback of Raul Fernandez

Fernandez was absent from the entire initial pre-season testing session last year following an accident.

Brivio mentioned that Raul is eager to attend the Buriram test, noting that he experienced a comparable injury three or four years prior.

In just under a week, he returned to cycling and, if I recall correctly, he went on to win a race.

He wishes to replicate the process. However, as I mentioned, his plan is to return to Barcelona. There, I believe he intends to consult Dr. Xavier Mir for the operation. We will pay attention to his updates and proceed with additional evaluations to monitor the situation.

The status of Martin's health is currently unclear, and there is a possibility that Aprilia may have to finish the Sepang test with just two out of their four racers.

However, Brivio mentions that the testing schedule for newcomer Ai Ogura will remain the same.

"There has been no improvement," he commented regarding Ogura, who finished the first day in 16th place after completing 58 laps.

"We are also very satisfied with our collaboration with him and his approach to MotoGP."

"We describe it as a form of education, what he's currently engaged in. There are numerous things he has to learn, comprehend, become familiar with, and explore."

Here's what we're up to: following a three-day testing period, we're focusing on adjusting with worn-out tires and fine-tuning the electronic settings. Our aim is to understand how the motorcycle performs when the tire grip decreases—those kinds of aspects.

"There is a lot for him to learn, but it's reassuring to watch how he tackles it. He remains composed, asks questions, and seeks to grasp the concepts. Everything's going well so far."

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Enea Bastianini Identifies Major Issue with KTM's Performance

Enea Bastianini Highlights a Flaw in KTM's Characteristics

Enea Bastianini has identified the main issue with his KTM that he aims to address in Sepang.

Bastianini and his colleague Maverick Vinales are the fresh faces of the Tech3 KTM team this year, utilizing top-tier equipment and benefiting from direct support from the factory.

They are set to take to the track at Sepang's preseason test this week, marking their first outing since November in Barcelona, keen to get acquainted with their new motorcycle.

Former Ducati racer Bastianini has identified the issues plaguing the KTM.

"He described the KTM as being exceptionally powerful upon entry."

"However, this condition doesn't last indefinitely – as the tires wear down, it frequently begins to lose traction at the back. And once lost, it doesn't recover."

"This issue needs to be addressed and solved by us."

Enea Bastianini Discusses Plans for Sepang Trials

Bastianini revealed his three-day agenda for the Sepang trials, noting he has yet to discuss it with test riders Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro.

"If I happen to run into Dani, we'll likely need to have a conversation."

"My bicycle bears resemblance to the one I tried out during the trial in Barcelona.

“I need to start with self-assurance and familiarize myself with the KTM. Afterward, on the second day, I can explore different solutions.

"Initially, Maverick and I will engage in separate tasks."

Bastianini emphasized the importance of maintaining a rider’s physical well-being throughout a three-day trial, acknowledging that the desire to push oneself continuously isn't always feasible.

"He emphasized the significance of recognizing our own energy."

"At times, you might complete numerous circuits on day one, only to find yourself completely wiped out on day two!

"Your overall health might be fine, but that doesn't necessarily qualify you for MotoGP racing. The requirements for this sport differ significantly from those for riding other types of motorcycles."

He further mentioned, "The initial day holds significance for delivering exceptional performance using the same motorcycle. On the following day, KTM likely aims to experiment with new approaches.

"I am eager to observe these remedies."

Comments supplied by Peter McLaren, Editor at Crash MotoGP

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Johann Zarco calls for recognition of Honda's progress, stating "they are definitely not foolish"

LCR Honda competitor acknowledges the company's off-season advancements

Johann Zarco emphasizes that Honda MotoGP competitors should honor the team's off-season progress, despite Romano Albesiano stepping in as the new technical director.

Honda's recruitment of Albesiano from Aprilia as the lead of their technical division signifies a significant change in staff for the Japanese company, which ended up at the bottom of the constructors' rankings in 2024.

Albesiano officially assumed his position in January, indicating that he has had minimal impact on Honda's development efforts during the winter, prior to this week's pre-season test in Sepang.

LCR's Zarco believes that Albesiano has definitely been able to offer insights to Honda's technical team regarding the motorcycle, but he emphasizes that they are "obviously intelligent" and their efforts should not be underestimated.

"It's difficult to determine," he responded when questioned about Albesiano's impact on motorcycle progression.

"He's likely capable of offering suggestions now, but given that his project commenced in January, it's clear Honda had made prior arrangements.

"They were eager to hear Romano's concepts at the start of January and decided, 'alright, let's get everything ready by the end of January'."

"It's important for us to honor that and pursue it, as the concepts Honda aims to explore are undeniably intelligent."

"Perhaps the sole individual privy to certain undisclosed information could be [Gigi] Dall'Igna, yet he isn't the person who inked a deal with Honda."

"He [Albesiano] might be able to suggest some concepts, however, we need to adhere to the strategies that have been in place since November up to the present."

Johann Zarco Discusses Honda's Strategy in Sepang

Honda has completed its initial laps at Sepang during the shakedown, and Zarco observed that the setup appeared to be “quite similar” to the configuration he experienced during the last tests of the previous year.

"Based on my current observation, the bicycle appears largely the same, yet they are implementing numerous changes," he further stated.

"Tomorrow, selecting the chassis is our initial priority."

Additionally, they are working on some engine-related projects, though perhaps they're not immediately the top choice in Malaysia. Moreover, on the final day, we plan to tackle the aerodynamic aspects.

Now, having gained experience, I no longer harbor expectations of immediately achieving success that propels one to the forefront, as I understand the effort involved but recognize the challenge in synchronizing all necessary elements.

The Japanese are implementing alterations, yet there are occasions when the sentiment remains alike, making it challenging to progress significantly.

"However, given Romano's involvement, I anticipate progress will be made."

"He is genuinely taken with the promise Honda holds, a sentiment I share and have held for the past year."

"He possesses a similar sentiment, which is comforting to know we share the same feelings."

Statements supplied by Peter McLaren, MotoGP Editor at Crash

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Fabio di Giannantonio: Shoulder Fully Recovered, Mentally Unburdened Ahead of GP25

"I'm eager to participate in the [GP25] and share my genuine thoughts."

Tomorrow, for the first time since October's Thai Grand Prix, Fabio di Giannantonio will be back on the circuit as he participates in the initial rounds of the Official Sepang Test.

The rider from Pertamina VR46 took a break from the 2024 racing season to have significant shoulder surgery, following a dislocation he suffered months before in Austria.

This meant he missed the last two races of the world championship and the post-race testing in Barcelona, where the initial model of the factory-spec GP25 he is set to compete with this season was unveiled to the public.

"Di Giannantonio mentioned in a Tuesday interview with Crash.net at Sepang that the winter seemed to stretch on for quite some time."

I had to concentrate intensely to regain movement in my shoulder, then work on restoring strength to all the surrounding muscles. It was quite an extensive journey. But now, I'm in great shape, feeling about 80-90% restored.

"I'm lacking a bit in strength since my physical training only commenced at the beginning of January, leaving me with just a handful of weeks before undergoing this evaluation.

"I'm doing well. We spent three days at Mandalika riding the Panigale, and I had a great time. Thankfully, I experienced absolutely no shoulder pain."

"Certainly, competing in the MotoGP is an entirely different experience. We'll have to wait and see what unfolds here."

In response to a question about what he anticipates being the most challenging aspect, Diggia mentioned, "Definitely the [insufficient physical] conditioning, especially the braking.

"However, it's crucial for me to pay attention on the straight paths and during the proper turns, as those were the primary problems we faced last year."

"I couldn't position myself as close to the fairing and as low on the right turns as I managed to do on the left ones."

In a subsequent media briefing at the race track, the 26-year-old racer shared that his left shoulder now feels completely rejuvenated, as if there had been no injury at all. He attributed this remarkable recovery to 'The Professor', whom he praised as one of the world's finest surgeons for this type of procedure, stating that the work done was exceptional.

"Reflecting on my experience, piloting the GP motorcycle in the final seven contests of the previous season was quite challenging. However, this time around, the narrative has entirely changed. I'm optimistic that this alteration will be evident on the racetrack starting from tomorrow."

Giannantonio aims for mental freedom and will be the sole competitor, apart from the Ducati Lenovo pair of Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, to have the privilege of using the highly sought-after GP25.

"There are plenty of things we're excited to test out!" the Italian rider, who has previously only had access to bikes that were a year old and at the end of their development cycle, said with a smile.

This is my initial experience with evaluating numerous components, and it's incredibly exciting. Truly a great thing to undertake.

"Definitely, each person will follow their individual plans, but the three of us will collaborate on enhancing the bike."

Di Giannantonio observed from the periphery as Bagnaia and Marquez experienced their initial trial of the GP25 in Barcelona.

He remains open to possibilities as the Wednesday premiere approaches.

"The squad and Ducati chose not to share numerous details with me as they aimed to avoid swaying my decisions in any manner. I believe it was a wise choice," declared the victor of the 2023 Qatar race.

"Definitely, I caught some remarks from you, the journalists, during the interviews. However, from my end, I preferred not to delve too deeply because I aimed to maintain an open mind."

"I wish to cycle and express my deepest emotions."

"It appears to have made a promising start. The lap times were decent, and even in Barcelona, the motorcycle wasn't the complete 2025 version. This is partly because the final specifications for the 2025 model haven't been finalized yet, as we're still in the process of testing various components for this year."

"Therefore, I believe we are set to introduce the initial '25 prototype for this season."

The official testing session in Sepang is scheduled from Wednesday through to Friday.

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Peter has spent two decades in the racing field, witnessing the rise and retirement of Valentino Rossi. He is leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure from racing and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with injuries.

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Jack Miller to sport distinctive MotoGP attire combination for 2025

Pramac competitor to endorse dual gear brands this year

In 2025, Pramac Yamaha MotoGP contestant Jack Miller will take to the track donning gear from a mix of different brands, marking an unconventional choice in his racing attire.

Previously, Miller was endorsed by Alpinestars, wearing their gloves, boots, and racing suits, along with his crash helmet.

Nonetheless, upon his transition to Pramac Yamaha, he will be outfitted in Dainese gear, including leathers, gloves, and boots, while continuing to use his Alpinestars helmet.

Pramac's official team apparel is provided by Dainese, as the team has secured a fresh agreement that extends through the end of 2027.

Check out this Instagram post from Crash MotoGP (@crashmotogp_)

"Gino Borsoi, the team leader at Pramac, expressed immense enthusiasm about embarking on this journey with Dainese, a name that stands for innovation, safety, and outstanding quality in the realm of motorsports."

"This signifies a partnership between a legendary MotoGP brand and a team renowned for its MotoGP legacy, a duo poised to elevate both our reputation and standards of excellence."

"As we embark on the endeavor to rival Yamaha in MotoGP and Moto2 races, the backing and safeguarding provided by Dainese will play a vital role in our performance on the circuit."

"This collaboration further solidifies our squad's dedication to excellence and mirrors our mutual principles of commitment and high standards in the sport."

Confronted with the risk of not securing a spot on the racing lineup for the 2025 season, Miller appeared to have no choice regarding the equipment sponsor upon his potential return to Pramac in 2025.

He's not the only prominent figure moving to Dainese in 2025, as KTM test pilot Dani Pedrosa was seen wearing the brand's gear during the Sepang shakedown the previous week.

During his debut season in MotoGP in 2006, Pedrosa was affiliated with Dainese while competing as a factory rider for Honda.

The full lineup of Pramac riders in both MotoGP and Moto2 will be outfitted in Dainese gear.

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