Joan Mir shares excitement over his Honda's peak performance

Joan Mir experienced his best day with a Honda on Wednesday

Joan Mir expressed that the initial day of MotoGP trials in Malaysia before the 2025 season commenced was his most successful with Honda, stating, “we are very confident about every advancement we've achieved.”

Since making the move to Honda in 2023, the champion of the world from 2020 has faced challenging times. Over the last two years, his performance saw a significant dip, culminating in a mere 21 points and a 21st place finish in the rankings last season.

During the winter season, Honda has significantly ramped up its efforts to change its trajectory, particularly by bringing on board Romano Albesiano from Aprilia to serve as its technical director.

During Wednesday's testing session at Sepang, the motorcycle Mir piloted on the circuit was not impacted by Albesiano's designs, yet there was evident improvement noted in the RC213V's performance.

Finishing the day in sixth place overall following 54 laps, Mir tested out two different models of the Honda.

When questioned about whether this was his most successful test day with Honda, Mir responded, "Indeed, today it was."

Joan Mir elaborates on Honda's progress

Mir, who noted his consistent improvement, shared, "Our performance improved throughout the day, showing speed both on worn tires and fresh ones."

"I feel pleased because, to a large extent, we grasped the direction we aim to pursue throughout this trial.

"We've discovered a configuration and design that enables my riding style, a style I couldn't achieve in the latter half of the previous season."

Honda has now introduced a package that enables me to accomplish this. With every departure, I found myself joyful, always smiling due to the pleasure I experienced while riding the bike.

"Our bicycle doesn't pick up speed on straight paths, in fact, it's the least speedy among the competition. However, we've definitely made progress in those straight sections, and I'm confident we're not falling behind by more than three or four tenths on the two straights [at Sepang].

"Therefore, this signifies that we can significantly reduce the distance between us due to advancements made in the braking zone."

"I managed to apply the brakes in the way I'm accustomed to. I could make the turns. Despite the persistent vibration, I found a way to handle it somehow. They put in a lot of effort, and truly, it was worthwhile."

"We still need to improve our grip and top speed. Over the next couple of days, those will be our primary focus areas."

"I wish for us to move past everything we attempted today, avoiding repetition, as we've had a successful day of experimentation."

"We are extremely confident in every move we've taken. It's truly excellent and brings me joy."

Joan Mir highlights a significant shortfall in Honda's performance, pointing out the rear grip deficiency in recent models.

Mir has stated that while there hasn't been an enhancement in "pure grip", the improved ability to turn the bike has contributed positively in this aspect.

"He mentioned that they primarily enhanced the steering."

"We enhanced the aerodynamics, along with various other aspects."

"We managed to enhance the ground effect slightly in the turning zone, which in turn boosted the grip. This is because higher speeds allow for more accurate throttle control, resulting in increased grip."

"We didn't start from scratch, which enhanced our hold. However, regarding absolute traction, we didn't make any progress today."

On Wednesday, the latest addition to the Honda captured interest, yet Mir was elusive about the specific goals of the Japanese brand, stating, "I'm not at liberty to discuss it much. The reality is, it's not the most attractive feature. Beyond that, I don't have much to say."

Comments shared by Crash MotoGP Editor Peter McLaren

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Jack Miller discusses his approach to addressing Yamaha's shortcomings

Jack Miller shares his initial impressions on his experience with Yamaha

Jack Miller is showing improvement in addressing Yamaha's shortcomings following the first day in Sepang.

Miller is transitioning from a KTM factory bike to a Yamaha, within the newly joined Pramac satellite squad.

He gained advantages by participating in the previous week's practice session ahead of the official MotoGP preseason test on Wednesday, where he secured the eighth-fastest time.

"Miller looked back on the first day, noting, 'It was a positive day for our team.'"

"Clearly, it was a huge relief to complete the initial trial and shake off the nerves. We focused on configuration."

"Today, I spent my day engaging with geometric designs. I'm pleased with how the bicycle is shaping up."

I'm beginning to feel at ease with it, gradually testing its boundaries to what I perceive as the maximum.

"The entire concept behind this testing procedure is to be at this stage right from the start, on the very first day."

"We've conducted tests on numerous components, such as during the preliminary runs – on both the bodywork and the frame."

"I'm delighted to have the opportunity to evaluate components and to receive backing from Yamaha. In our current situation, this is incredibly important and greatly beneficial."

"At least we're not merely going in loops!"

Jack Miller comments on Yamaha's area for improvement

"Getting on the bike, one of the areas that needed work was the rear traction," Miller stated.

"However, the front part was truly exceptional…"

"We're playing a balancing act. Our goal is to maintain optimal equilibrium while enhancing the backend."

"We've taken positive strides. In doing so and integrating electronics, we've enhanced the bike's performance for competition."

Miller described the advantages of his Yamaha, emphasizing its responsiveness, agility in turns, and braking capability. He mentioned that he has never experienced a motorcycle with such an impressive front end.

"It's both a gift and a burden, as you're left wondering what the boundaries are!"

"You're exerting effort, constantly trying, yet it remains in place! It's incredible, though it requires significant effort to develop self-assurance.

"Getting two additional days for trial runs significantly aided us."

"Maintaining self-assurance and advancing the forefront is crucial."

Miller noted, "For me, another significant aspect was observing previous Yamaha competitors maintain alignment with both wheels.

"In direct stopping areas, my approach involves sliding the motorcycle's rear end as I decelerate, engaging the back brake."

"I've discovered a method to maintain Yamaha's advantage in speed and agility through corners, while also effectively braking at Turns 9 and 1."

"It feels good, executing passes, and bringing the motorcycle to a halt as necessary."

"It's an essential instrument for overtaking maneuvers in MotoGP."

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

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Aprilia: Jorge Martin's accident during testing not caused by mechanical failure or rider error

"An unfortunate accident occurred seemingly without cause…"

Aprilia's CEO, Massimo Rivola, has stated that neither the motorcycle nor Jorge Martin was at fault for the crash that may have prematurely concluded Martin's MotoGP pre-season preparations.

During the first day of trials at Sepang on Wednesday, the current world titleholder suffered two accidents, the latter at Turn 2 being a severe highside crash that resulted in numerous broken bones.

Martin is set to stay overnight in the hospital before he heads back to Europe for surgery, casting uncertainty on his ability to take part in the upcoming Buriram test scheduled for next week.

Rivola states that Aprilia's analysis indicated Martin's motorcycle was functioning normally and he wasn't accelerating during the incident, with his tires also being within the optimal operating range.

According to Rivola, the accident occurred while using the same set of tires, but he refrained from pointing fingers at Michelin.

In a troubling turn of events, @88jorgemartin experienced a severe highside crash shortly after debuting with the prestigious number 1 plate. He is currently in the hospital for evaluations related to pain in his left foot and right hand. Further information will be provided as it becomes available. Our thoughts are with the reigning World Champion during this difficult time 💪#MotoGP pic.twitter.com/2UQtHKOq1w

"Clearly, we're facing an issue here," Rivola remarked.

"A disastrous accident occurred seemingly without cause, with neither the motorcycle nor the rider at fault."

Inquired about the similarities between Martin's two accidents, he noted, "What's fascinating is that they occurred on the same set of tires.

The initial one was positioned to the right, while the subsequent one was found on the left.

"However, the medium tire has an uneven design. Thus, when it's suggested that the medium isn't the top choice for the right side, it implies that upon turning right, the medium tire should exhibit more softness on that side."

"I'll entrust you with gathering further details."

Rivola has announced that for the remaining duration of the test, test rider Lorenzo Savadori will be taking over the bike. He also acknowledges that Martin's initial significant day of testing on the RS-GP 2025 might not occur until the first free practice session at the Thailand Grand Prix.

"He explained that the procedure involves spending 24 hours in the hospital as a standard protocol."

"He will be discharged from the hospital tomorrow. Following his release, he plans to travel to Europe the next day for his surgical procedure."

"Afterward, we'll monitor the body's response and healing process. The truly encouraging update is that there's no concussion, which honestly is the most crucial aspect."

"Today, we feel fortunate to have witnessed the crash. Following this, we are assured of his participation in the first race."

"We witnessed Jorge, along with numerous other cyclists, performing wonders, so it's plausible to anticipate him in Thailand.

"I believe that when we're in Thailand, we'll also take Sava along as a precaution for additional testing, though it's expected to be challenging."

"It's possible that Martin's initial experience on the 25 bike might occur during FP1."

Martin wasn't the sole Aprilia racer sidelined by injury during the test, since Trackhouse's Raul Fernandez also experienced a crash that resulted in a fractured left hand.

Trackhouse team leader Davide Brivio described Fernandez's crash as "somewhat peculiar," noting that he wasn't exerting much effort at the time.

Comments offered by Peter McLaren, Editor at Crash MotoGP

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Uncovered: Comparison of Lap Times Between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc in Recent Ferrari Trial

Recent data from Lewis Hamilton's latest test in a Ferrari F1 car showcases a side-by-side comparison with Charles Leclerc.

Lewis Hamilton finished his initial test drive in Ferrari's latest Formula 1 vehicle in Barcelona on Tuesday.

The seven-time world champion made a comeback to race for Ferrari at the Spanish Grand Prix site almost a week following his accident with the team's 2023 vehicle at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

Hamilton, alongside his new colleague Charles Leclerc and the McLaren team, are participating in a two-day trial of Pirelli tyres, aimed at aiding the advancement of their 2026 models.

In contrast to Hamilton's earlier confidential trials with Ferrari, this initiative was conducted for the advantage of Pirelli and was orchestrated by Formula 1's tyre provider.

The examination aims to assess the newest designs for the 2026 tyres, along with the C1, C2, and C3 hard compounds.

Ferrari and McLaren have implemented updates to their respective race cars. However, for Hamilton, it marked his initial experience behind the wheel of the SF-24, following his earlier two test drives in the SF-23 model.

Norris Outpaces Leclerc

In today's session, Lando Norris clocked the quickest lap, recording a time of 1 minute and 15.215 seconds, while also covering 159 laps in the McLaren MCL60 for the 2023 season.

Moving onto the leaderboards, Hamilton secured his position with a time of 1 minute and 15.930 seconds over 87 laps. Outpacing both Ferrari drivers, it's important to note that lap times are largely insignificant during testing.

Leclerc completed 86 laps, achieving his fastest time at 1 minute and 16.060 seconds.

It's understood that on Tuesday, Ferrari had their SF-23 on the track for a TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) session. This move was intended to offer Hamilton and Leclerc extra opportunities to recover from the delay resulting from Hamilton's mishap the previous week.

Pirelli's tire evaluation is set to proceed into Wednesday. The task of testing for Ferrari will be divided between Hamilton and Leclerc, while Oscar Piastri steps in for Norris to take the wheel for McLaren.

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Championship-winning Brawn GP Formula 1 vehicle to be auctioned

A further championship-winning F1 vehicle is on the market…

The renowned 2009 Brawn GP Formula 1 car, which carried Jenson Button to his championship victory, is set to be auctioned off during the Miami Grand Prix later in the year.

Button, who acquired the car as a gift following his unforgettable 2009 season, has kept it in his private collection.

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

Button's victory in 2009 was like a storybook tale, coming from a team established by the iconic Formula 1 team leader Ross Brawn after Honda's unexpected exit from the competition at the close of 2008.

Operating with limited funds, Brawn GP arrived at the season opener with the quickest vehicle and secured the top two spots.

In their sole season in Formula 1, the squad secured the constructors' championship, after which Mercedes acquired them.

Button secured the championship title with a race left in the season, outpacing Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel in the overall rankings.

The particular chassis available for purchase is labeled 001/01, which was piloted by Rubens Barrichello during the initial races of the season.

Regarding the auction, Louis Frankel from Bonhams Cars remarked, "This vehicle embodies the quintessential Formula 1 dream – an innovative design that transformed the boundaries of possibility.

"Chassis 001/01 stands as a significant artifact in the realm of motorsport, and its appearance on the auction block is poised to draw the attention of collectors from around the globe.

"We are privileged to showcase this unparalleled chance during the Miami Grand Prix, an event that truly matches its iconic stature."

Top-priced Formula 1 vehicles auctioned

The Brawn GP vehicle probably won't approach the staggering auction record set earlier in the year.

The Mercedes W196R fetched £42.7 million at an auction organized by RM Sotheby’s, which took place at the Mercedes’ headquarters in Stuttgart.

Coming in at a far second place is another W196R, piloted by the legendary F1 racer, Juan Manuel Fangio.

In 2013, it fetched a price of £19.6 million.

In 2023, Lewis Hamilton's inaugural Mercedes Formula 1 vehicle, known as the W04, fetched a sale price of £15.1 million.

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Zhou Guanyu secures position at Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season

After being dropped, Zhou Guanyu secures a new position with Ferrari for the 2025 F1 campaign.

Zhou Guanyu has become a part of Ferrari's team, serving as one of the two backup drivers for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Sauber terminated Zhou's contract at the close of 2024, resulting in him losing his position on the starting lineup.

The driver from China faced challenges in his last season with the team, yet managed to earn Sauber's sole points through an impressive performance at the Qatar Grand Prix.

Zhou has reaffirmed his commitment to staying involved in Formula 1, despite not securing the secondary position with Sauber, including the role of a backup driver.

He and Antonio Giovinazzi will alternate responsibilities throughout the season, sharing the workload.

If Lewis Hamilton or Charles Leclerc is absent during a grand prix weekend, Zhou or Giovinazzi will have the opportunity to step in as drivers.

Oliver Bearman filled in for Carlos Sainz during the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, following Sainz's emergency hospitalization due to appendicitis.

Ferrari has made an announcement stating that Zhou Guanyu will be joining as a reserve driver for the Scuderia Ferrari HP team, alongside Antonio Giovinazzi, who will maintain his position in the same role.

"For the driver from China, this return feels like coming back home, having devoted four years to training at the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy between 2015 and 2018."

Ferrari mentioned, "Zhou is splitting the backup driver duties with Antonio Giovinazzi, who has been part of Scuderia Ferrari HP since 2017.

The Italian driver is set to continue his participation in the World Endurance Championship, piloting the number 51 Ferrari 499P, the same vehicle he drove to victory at the 2023 Le Mans 24 Hours.

Is Zhou poised for a return to the grid in 2026?

Zhou will encounter tough rivals in his bid to return to the grid in 2026.

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

Cadillac, poised to enter the F1 circuit in 2026 as the eleventh team, is said to be keen on having an American driver pilot one of their vehicles.

Consequently, Colton Herta is widely regarded as the top contender for securing one of those positions in 2026.

Cadillac's decision to use Ferrari engines in 2026 could potentially enhance Zhou's prospects for a comeback.

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F1 secures a fresh champagne partnership for the 2025 season, welcoming back a classic brand.

F1 is set to reunite with Moët & Chandon, who will return as the official champagne sponsor for the 2025 season.

Moët & Chandon's comeback is a component of F1's recent decade-long "landmark" alliance with LVMH.

Formula 1 has unveiled new collaborations with luxury brands Louis Vuitton and Rolex. Louis Vuitton will be the sponsor for the season's first race, the Australian Grand Prix, while Rolex replaces Tag Heuer as the official timekeeper for the series.

Moët & Chandon is set to take over from Ferrari Trento as the official sparkling wine sponsor of Formula 1, a position Ferrari Trento has held since 202

Before this period, from 1966 to 1999 and then again in 2020, Moët & Chandon served as the official champagne supplier for Formula 1.

In 2025, podium-standing racers will have the opportunity to celebrate with the renowned champagne from Moët & Chandon.

Additionally, they will serve as the main sponsor for the Belgian Grand Prix taking place in July.

Regarding recent announcements, Formula 1's CEO, Stefano Domenicali, expressed enthusiasm by stating, "The act of celebrating with champagne on the podium stands as a hallmark celebration in our sport, and we're excited to have Moët & Chandon back as the Official Champagne of Formula 1.

"This collaboration honors the shared legacy, passion, and distinction that unite Formula 1 and Moët & Chandon, showcasing a harmonious blend of high achievement and elegance during an exceptional year marked by our 75th anniversary celebration."

"The comeback of Moët & Chandon to the forefront reinforces our dynamic alliance with LVMH even more, and we're eagerly looking forward to celebrating this remarkable teamwork."

Sibylle Scherer, the Chief Executive Officer of Moët & Chandon, expressed her enthusiasm and honor in reinstating the brand's role as the Official Champagne of Formula 1. She highlighted the longstanding partnership and mutual values of collective success and commitment that have united the two since the 1950s. Scherer praised the remarkable collaboration, unparalleled accuracy, and continuous quest for superiority that characterize both the world of motorsport and their champagne-making tradition.

"This collaboration celebrates the collective success and camaraderie of motivational racers, their committed crews, and the worldwide supporters that cheer them on.

"Moët & Chandon ascends to the podium once more, and we are honored to keep creating celebratory moments for all who are dedicated to this remarkable journey with us."

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Lewis Hamilton bestows a farewell present upon 3,000 Mercedes employees

Lewis Hamilton has delivered a farewell present to each of the 3,000 members of his previous Mercedes F1 team.

Lewis Hamilton has dispatched a unique present to all 3,000 of his ex-Mercedes teammates in light of his departure from the F1 squad.

It was disclosed that the seven-time world champion arranged for a unique piece of art to be created for his former teammates upon his departure from the Silver Arrows.

Hamilton, securing six out of his seven global titles during a remarkable 12-year period with Mercedes, made a high-profile move to competitor Ferrari during the offseason.

The 40-year-old man from Britain desired to give every employee a unique present before his departure.

Hamilton commissioned celebrated motorsport illustrator Paul Oz to create a portrait capturing his poignant win at the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix.

Hamilton devoted his third win on the Monte Carlo circuit to the recently deceased Niki Lauda, who passed away just before the race that year.

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

"Given that this information is out in the open and all 3000 staff members of Mercedes GP have gotten their copies, I'm free to discuss it," Oz shared in an Instagram post that has since been removed.

"Lewis personally arranged for this to be a farewell gift for everyone at Mercedes… truly a graceful gesture!

"My sole directive was to concentrate on the vehicle instead of Lewis. Therefore, I decided to depict a scene from the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix, shortly after Niki Lauda's death, when the team displayed a red halo in his memory. Lewis clinched the pole position and then led the race dominantly."

Hamilton is currently engaged in a thorough pre-season testing schedule, gearing up for his inaugural F1 season with Ferrari.

He is set to team up with Charles Leclerc, creating what many consider the most formidable driving duo for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Hamilton is striving to secure an unprecedented eighth world championship with Ferrari, an achievement that would place him ahead of the legendary Michael Schumacher in the annals of history.

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Cadillac recruits seasoned Haas professional to serve as their inaugural F1 team leader.

Cadillac selects a prominent Haas individual to take on the role of their initial F1 team leader.

Cadillac has brought on board Peter Crolla, a seasoned veteran from Haas, as their inaugural F1 team manager.

The team spearheaded by General Motors has strengthened its lineup by bringing on Crolla, in anticipation of joining Formula 1 as the eleventh team in 2026.

Crolla transitioned to Haas from McLaren in 2015, initially taking on the role of team coordinator. He was then elevated to the position of team manager in 2017, and subsequently held the role of trackside operations manager from 2021 to 2022 within the American team.

He was pivotal, working closely with ex-Haas team leader Guenther Steiner, in transforming the team from trailing participants to competitive midfield contenders.

After leaving Haas at the conclusion of the 2024 season, Crolla has been quickly recruited by Cadillac, representing a major victory for the squad.

It is understood that the FIA, which oversees Formula 1, is close to finalizing the approval for Cadillac's participation.

Crolla has now joined the ranks of high-profile individuals participating in the project, coming on board after the addition of seasoned F1 pro Pat Symonds in the previous month.

In a LinkedIn post last month, Symonds shared, “I was uncertain about what to anticipate.

"This is essentially a fledgling company, yet a handful of crucial individuals have dedicated themselves tirelessly for more than twelve months, and the results they've produced are extraordinary."

Despite my familiarity with their previous work and understanding of their capabilities, I was nevertheless profoundly struck, not only by the advancements made on the vehicle but also by the robust groundwork that supported it.

"I'm confident that by 2026, we will have a car competing that will bring honor to both our team and Formula 1 as a whole."

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

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Valtteri Bottas disclosed discussions with two Formula 1 teams regarding a possible driving opportunity in 2025, prior to his departure from Sauber.

Valtteri Bottas disclosed that he engaged in discussions with two competing Formula 1 teams prior to being replaced at Sauber for the 2025 season.

The Finnish driver, aged 35, has returned to Mercedes to serve as a reserve driver for the next season, providing support for George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

Bottas made his way back to Mercedes following his departure from Sauber, as the team decided to overhaul its roster of drivers for the 2025 season. Sauber brought on board Nico Hulkenberg from Haas and Gabriel Bortoleto, the Formula 2 titleholder.

Bottas has verified that he engaged in discussions with both Williams and Haas as they considered their choices for drivers in the forthcoming season.

"Bottas revealed to RacingNews365 that they had extensive discussions with Williams over a significant period."

"Making that my top concern, we had discussions with Ayao about a potential opportunity to race for Haas earlier in the year."

"However, I made the choice to commit more fully to joining Williams. This plan fell through due to Carlos and the financial benefits he contributes to the team."

"Subsequently, I found myself solely responsible for the [Audi] initiative. It could have been a great opportunity, yet it seems that the decision-makers at the top believed a transformation was necessary, extending even to the drivers."

Bottas anticipated playing a crucial role in Audi initiative

Bottas expressed his belief that he would remain with Sauber as the team transitioned into Audi by 2026.

Bottas quickly realized that Audi's senior leaders began to evaluate alternative candidates.

"As my contract was drawing to a close, I began to ponder a lot about what lay ahead," he shared. "However, I remained quite sure that I would still be part of the lineup, as that's what it seemed like.

"The Audi board will have to approve any decisions that shape the company's future direction."

"Certain individuals were indeed interested in having me, while others were keen on introducing a fresh face and opting for a younger driver."

"It was challenging because I consistently received signals, particularly when Mattia came on board, that I would be the cornerstone of the project. Therefore, it was difficult to fully commit to anything else given the assurance that I would have a position."

"Obviously, you're still exploring options without making any firm commitments, so I found myself wondering, 'Alright, when will we finalize this?'"

"This question arose weekly, despite all agreements and preparations being finalized in writing."

"When the delay occurred, I realized something was wrong and it wouldn't end well for me."

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Sepang MotoGP Test 2025 – Day 2 Results (Thursday)

Here are the lap times recorded by 12 PM on the second day of the official MotoGP test in Sepang for the year 2025.

Regular updates on results every hour…

Text:

^X Rider has moved up X spots compared to the past hour.

= The rider remains in the same position as they were in the last hour.

X Rider has dropped X spots compared to the last hour.

Quickest time on the first day:

Fabio Quartararo from Yamaha recorded a lap time of 1 minute and 57

Quickest time recorded in a Shakedown Test

Fabio Quartararo from Yamaha recorded a time of 1 minute and 57.794 seconds on the third day.

Official records from the Sepang MotoGP:

Fastest lap: Francesco Bagnaia on a Ducati with a time of 1 minute 56.337 seconds (2024)

Quickest lap in the race: Alex Marquez on a Ducati with a time of 1 minute and 58.979 seconds (2023)

Following a three-day preliminary session for newcomers, official test riders, and racers from Yamaha and Honda, the Sepang MotoGP Test is set to take place from Wednesday to Friday in Malaysia.

The first day was tough as Jorge Martin, Fabio di Giannantonio, and Raul Fernandez were all sidelined due to injuries. Meanwhile, Fabio Quartararo, who led the Shakedown, set the fastest time for Yamaha, outperforming Marc Marquez, the recent addition to the factory Ducati team.

Following the Sepang session, there will be just one additional official test scheduled at Buriram, set to take place from February 12 to 13, before the commencement of the Thai season on February 28.

The engine specifications for Ducati, KTM, and Aprilia will remain unchanged starting from the Thai Grand Prix and continuing through the end of 2026. This decision aims to lower development expenses in preparation for the upcoming 850cc era set to begin in 2027.

Due to their D concession status, Honda and Yamaha are allowed to keep working on their engine development.

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Aston Martin unveils the debut schedule for Fernando Alonso's 2025 Formula 1 contender

Aston Martin has disclosed their unveiling strategy for the year 2025.

Aston Martin has announced the official unveiling of their 2025 Formula 1 car on February 23, ahead of its inaugural track appearance in Bahrain.

All 10 teams are set to attend F1 75 Live at the O2 in London on February 18, but the focus will likely be on unveiling team colors instead of introducing their latest car models.

Aston Martin has officially announced their new car, revealing it five days following the premier launch event of F1.

On February 24, Aston Martin is set to make its debut on the circuit during a promotional activity at the Bahrain International Circuit.

This event is set to take place just 48 hours prior to the pre-season trials in Bahrain.

Outlook for Aston Martin in 2025

Among all the teams set to compete in the F1 2025 series, Aston Martin stands out as one of only two squads keeping their driver lineup unchanged.

Double Formula 1 champion Fernando Alonso continues to team up with Lance Stroll.

Based on their performance last year, it appears doubtful that they will be contenders at the forefront of the competition.

In the initial stages of 2024, Aston Martin managed to hold their own against competitors like Mercedes, McLaren, and Ferrari, but their performance rapidly declined thereafter.

In 2023, they faced challenges with developing their car throughout the season, leading to a decline in their competitive ranking.

Aston Martin might shift its focus to the next season, anticipating changes in regulations set to take effect in 2026, potentially sidelining their efforts this year.

Adrian Newey is set to start his role as the managing technical partner for the team on March 3, concentrating on their preparations for the 2026 season.

Andy Cowell has been named as the new team principal for the upcoming season, while Mike Krack transitions to a position focused on trackside activities.

Enrico Cardile holds the position of technical director at Aston Martin after transitioning from Ferrari.

Given the strong performances towards the end of the 2024 season from both Alpine and Haas, Aston Martin may find themselves dropping below their recent fifth-place finishes in the constructors' championship.

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