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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Lewis Hamilton has offered a farewell present to each of the 3,000 employees he used to work with at Mercedes F1.

Lewis Hamilton has given a unique present to each of his 3,000 ex-colleagues at Mercedes after leaving the Formula 1 team.

It has come to light that the seven-time world champion arranged for a unique piece of art to be created as a gesture for his past teammates upon his departure from the Silver Arrows.

Lewis Hamilton, a driver who secured six of his seven world titles in a remarkable 12-year career with Mercedes, made a sensational move to competitor Ferrari this past winter.

The British individual, aged 40, intended to present a unique gift to each employee after his relocation.

Hamilton commissioned famed motorsport artist Paul Oz to create a painting capturing his emotional win at the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix.

Hamilton paid tribute to the late Niki Lauda by dedicating his third win on the Monte Carlo circuit to him, as Lauda had passed away just before that year's event.

Every staff member has been given a copy of the artwork, while the original piece is showcased at the team's headquarters in Brackley.

In a since-deleted Instagram post, Oz mentioned, "I can finally discuss this because it's now common knowledge and all 3,000 staff members at Mercedes GP have received their copies of it."

“In a gesture of class, Lewis personally arranged for this gift to be given to everyone at Mercedes as a farewell tribute.”

"I was instructed to concentrate on the car instead of Lewis. As a result, I decided to depict a scene from the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix, which took place shortly after Niki Lauda's passing. The team honored him by featuring a red halo. During the event, Lewis secured the pole position and led the race to victory."

Hamilton is actively engaged in a comprehensive pre-season testing schedule as he gears up for his first Formula 1 season with Ferrari.

He is set to team up with Charles Leclerc, creating what is considered one of the most formidable driver duos for the 2025 F1 season.

Hamilton is striving to secure an unprecedented eighth world championship with Ferrari, a victory that would propel him past the legendary Michael Schumacher in the historical rankings.

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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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Cadillac has recruited a seasoned member from Haas to lead their inaugural F1 team as manager.

Cadillac has appointed Peter Crolla, a seasoned veteran from Haas, to be their inaugural Formula 1 team manager.

The team led by General Motors has strengthened its lineup by bringing in Crolla, as they prepare to join Formula 1 as the 11th team in the year 2026.

Crolla became part of the Haas team after leaving McLaren in 2015. Initially, he worked as the team coordinator for the American team. In 2017, he advanced to the role of team manager, and from 2021 to 2022, he took on the responsibilities of trackside operations manager.

He was crucial in collaborating with ex-Haas team leader Guenther Steiner to elevate the team from being at the back of the pack to competing in the midfield.

After leaving Haas at the conclusion of 2024, Crolla has been recruited by Cadillac, representing a major achievement for the team.

The FIA, which oversees Formula 1, is reportedly close to approving Cadillac's participation in the sport.

Crolla is the newest high-profile addition to the project, coming after F1 veteran Pat Symonds was signed last month.

In a LinkedIn post from last month, Symonds mentioned: "I wasn't certain about what to anticipate."

"This organization is definitely in its early stages, but a handful of crucial team members have been putting in significant effort for more than a year, and their accomplishments are impressive."

"Although I had previous experience collaborating with many of them and was familiar with the caliber of their work, I was nonetheless greatly impressed. It wasn't just the advances made on the car that caught my attention, but also the robust groundwork supporting it."

"I am confident that in 2026, we can have a car on the starting grid that will do justice to both our team and the Formula 1 sport."

In December, it was revealed that Graeme Lowdon, who previously led the Manor F1 team, will take on the role of team principal for Cadillac.

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Cadillac recruits experienced Haas member as inaugural F1 team manager.

Cadillac selects a prominent Haas figure to lead their F1 team as the first manager.

Cadillac has appointed Peter Crolla, a long-time veteran of Haas, as the inaugural team manager for their Formula 1 squad.

The team led by General Motors has strengthened its lineup by bringing Crolla on board, as they prepare to join Formula 1 as the 11th team in 2026.

Crolla became a part of Haas after leaving McLaren in 2015. Initially, he held the role of team coordinator at the American team. In 2017, he advanced to the position of team manager. From 2021 to 2022, he took on the responsibilities of trackside operations manager.

He was crucial in working with former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner to elevate the team from the back of the pack to competing in the middle of the field.

After leaving Haas at the close of 2024, Crolla has been recruited by Cadillac, representing a major achievement for the team.

The FIA, which oversees Formula 1, is reportedly close to approving Cadillac's participation in the sport.

Crolla is the newest prominent figure to participate in the initiative, coming after F1 veteran Pat Symonds, who signed on last month.

In a LinkedIn post from the previous month, Symonds expressed uncertainty about what was to come.

This initiative is still in its early stages, yet several important individuals have been diligently putting in effort for more than a year, and their accomplishments are truly impressive.

"Despite having collaborated with many of them previously and being familiar with the caliber of their work, I was still greatly impressed. It wasn't just the advancements on the car that caught my attention, but also the strong groundwork supporting it."

"I am confident that we can have a car ready for the 2026 grid that will do justice to both the team and Formula 1 as a whole."

In December, news broke that Graeme Lowdon, who previously led Manor F1, will take on the role of team principal at Cadillac.

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—

Re

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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Famed Brawn GP Car That Won F1 Title to Be Auctioned

A notable F1 championship car is now available for purchase…

The legendary Brawn GP F1 car, which Jenson Button drove to win the championship in 2009, is set to be auctioned off during the Miami Grand Prix later this year.

The vehicle, belonging to Button and presented to him after his notable 2009 season, has been included in his private collection.

Bonhams is set to oversee the auction event taking place in Miami.

In 2009, Button's victory was a story straight out of a fairy tale. The team, established by the iconic Formula 1 leader Ross Brawn, emerged after Honda unexpectedly decided to leave the sport at the close of 2008.

Operating with limited financial resources, Brawn GP arrived at the opening race with the quickest car and secured both first and second places.

In their sole season in Formula 1, the team secured the constructors' championship before being succeeded by Mercedes.

With one race remaining, Button secured the championship title, surpassing Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull in the overall rankings.

The chassis available for purchase is numbered 001/01, and it was used by Rubens Barrichello during the initial races of the season.

Commenting on the auction, Louis Frankel from Bonhams Cars described the vehicle as the pinnacle of a Formula 1 success story, highlighting its groundbreaking design that changed the limits of what could be achieved.

Chassis 001/01 represents a significant part of motorsport history, and its availability at auction is likely to attract the attention of collectors from around the globe.

"We are thrilled to offer this unique chance during the Miami Grand Prix, an event truly worthy of its iconic reputation."

The priciest F1 vehicles ever sold

The Brawn GP car is not expected to reach the unprecedented sale figures seen earlier this year.

The Mercedes W196R was auctioned off for £42.7 million during an event organized by RM Sotheby’s at the Mercedes headquarters in Stuttgart.

In a not-so-close second place is a different W196R, which was piloted by the legendary Formula 1 driver Juan Manuel Fang

In 2013, it was purchased for £19.6 million.

In 2023, the W04, which was Lewis Hamilton's debut Formula 1 car with Mercedes, fetched £15.1 million at auction.

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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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Zhou Guanyu, who was recently let go, has secured a new position with Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Zhou Guanyu has become one of Ferrari's two backup drivers for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

At the conclusion of the 2024 season, Zhou was dropped by Sauber, resulting in him not having a position on the racing lineup.

During his last season with the team, the Chinese driver faced challenges but managed to earn Sauber's sole points by delivering an impressive performance at the Qatar Grand Prix.

Zhou has expressed his ongoing wish to stay involved in Formula 1, despite not securing the second Sauber position, including a reserve role.

He will split responsibilities with Antonio Giovinazzi, as the two will take turns throughout the season.

If Lewis Hamilton or Charles Leclerc are unable to compete in a grand prix weekend, Zhou or Giovinazzi will have the opportunity to step in and drive.

Oliver Bearman took over for Carlos Sainz at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix when the Spanish driver was hospitalized due to appendicitis.

Ferrari revealed that Zhou Guanyu has been appointed as a reserve driver for Scuderia Ferrari HP. He will join Antonio Giovinazzi, who will remain in the same position.

"For the Chinese racer, it's a return to familiar grounds, having been part of the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy for four years, from 2015 to 2018."

Ferrari stated: "Zhou and Antonio Giovinazzi both hold positions as reserve drivers, with Giovinazzi having been involved with Scuderia Ferrari HP since 2017."

The Italian driver will keep competing in the World Endurance Championship, driving the number 51 Ferrari 499P. This is the same car he used to claim victory at the 2023 Le Mans 24 Hours race.

Will Zhou make a return to the racing lineup in 2026? Zhou is expected to encounter tough rivals in his bid to rejoin the grid that year.

Ex-teammate Valtteri Bottas, along with Sergio Perez, aims to make a comeback with Cadillac in 2026, and Kevin Magnussen is considered a potential candidate as well.

Cadillac is planning to enter the Formula 1 scene in 2026 as the 11th team and is said to be interested in having an American driver in their lineup.

Consequently, Colton Herta is widely expected to secure one of those positions in 2026.

With Cadillac set to use Ferrari engines in 2026, Zhou's opportunities for a comeback might have received a positive lift.

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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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