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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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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Marc Marquez reveals his primary objective for Sepang trials

Marc Marquez set to evaluate GP25 in preseason trials

Marc Marquez has stated that his primary objective during the Sepang MotoGP pre-season test is to gain insights from his Ducati team colleague, Francesco Bagnaia.

Following a successful revival of his previously faltering career with the Gresini team in the previous year, Marquez is set to make a comeback to a factory team position in 2025, joining forces with two-time premier class champion Bagnaia at the official Ducati team.

Throughout the winter, discussions have centered around the possible rift between them. However, Marquez mentions that Bagnaia will continue to be his benchmark during pre-season trials because "he possesses extensive knowledge."

"Absolutely, I'm eager to kick off the pre-season. It's particularly exciting being part of a factory team because when you glance over the schedule, you realize there's a plethora of items to test out, from minor tweaks to major overhauls," he mentioned.

"A significant task awaits us in the Malaysia trial, particularly as we must select the right path, striving to collaborate with Pecco and the entire team to establish the optimal foundation."

"In less than ten days, we're facing a five-day examination period, so it's crucial that we stay concentrated."

Currently, my exposure is limited to just a single trial in Barcelona, and generally, our feedback is quite similar.

"This mattered greatly and simplified the process for the engineers. From then on, Ducati possessed all the necessary resources to attempt to customize the motorcycle for every rider.

"However, when a bicycle is functioning properly, it becomes a reliable tool at your disposal."

"Right now, my goal is to fully grasp what's going on, and to absorb as much as I can from Pecco, given his extensive experience in this team and his deep knowledge of many aspects."

"And from that moment, gradually increase speed on the race course."

Marc Marquez expressed optimism about his condition, stating, "My well-being will improve following the initial race." Throughout his entire MotoGP journey, Bagnaia has remained loyal to Ducati, becoming the brand's most triumphant rider in history based on statistics.

Marquez mentions having minimal interaction with his fresh Ducati squad, yet he notes that the team unveiling in Italy last month offered him a good opportunity to familiarize himself more with his team members.

"Absolutely, I'm feeling good, but I anticipate feeling even better post the initial test and even more so following the first race. This is because I'm in the process of grasping the team's operational methods," he commented on the team's dynamics.

"The work presents some unique challenges, and I'll need to adjust accordingly."

"From that moment, my acquaintance with individuals began to deepen. While in Madonna di Campiglio I became more familiar with the higher-ups, I am now getting to know the technical staff better, particularly Marco Rigamonti, who is set to be my lead engineer."

"Thus, it's crucial from this moment forward to grasp what's necessary for us to achieve speed on the race circuit. That's the primary focus."

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Pecco Bagnaia to Marc Marquez: "We'll collaborate until…"

"Both of us are intelligent and realize the significance of this situation."

Two-time MotoGP world champion Francesco Bagnaia has stated that he plans to collaborate with Marc Marquez up until the season's opening race to prepare the GP25 through testing sessions.

Following the announcement of Marquez joining the official Ducati team as Bagnaia's partner for the 2025 season, the duo has kept a friendly rapport.

Nonetheless, there were significant incidents on the circuit leading up to that moment, particularly their collision at the Portuguese Grand Prix.

Throughout the winter, the conversation has centered around the anticipated rivalry between the duo as they contend for the championship.

Nevertheless, Bagnaia emphasizes that they must collaborate throughout the winter testing phase to ensure the GP25 is in optimal condition before the season's first race in Thailand at the month's end.

As dusk descends on Sepang 🇲🇾, Ducati's team gets Pecco Bagnaia's bike ready 🔴#MotoGP #SepangTest pic.twitter.com/wmy1CUE67B

"He expressed contentment with maintaining the current package as it stands."

"In my view, our requests in Barcelona mirrored our emotions, indicating we didn't require much variation."

"My approach will remain unchanged, as will his.

"We'll collaborate until the initial race."

"We're a pair of intelligent individuals fully aware of the significance of this occasion."

"Our relationship as teammates is quite typical, and it's essential for it to be that way given that mutual respect is our top priority."

Bagnaia commends Ducati ahead of Sepang

Bagnaia lauds Ducati for their excellent work in implementing the improvements to the GP25 that both riders sought after the Barcelona test in November.

"He added, 'Considering what Marc and I requested, I believe they performed quite well.'"

Reaching an agreement was challenging, as the hybrid bike we evaluated in Barcelona excelled in straight-line performance, yet it fell short in various other aspects.

"I'm fully aware of the effort they put in to bring us joy, and in my opinion, they succeeded."

"Let's meet up tomorrow. There's a whole bunch of activities and tasks awaiting us."

"However, I'm sincerely wishing we avoid any rainfall, as we have three complete days of testing ahead."

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Pramac pledges to instill Ducati's "approach" into Yamaha

"They're highly receptive to our perspective on racing"

Gino Borsoi, the team leader of Pramac, has expressed that his team is transferring the "optimal mindset" from Ducati to Yamaha for the MotoGP initiative set for 2025.

From 2004 until the conclusion of 2024, Pramac operated as a secondary team for Ducati, securing the riders' championship in the previous year with Jorge Martin at the helm.

In recent years, Pramac has forged a strong partnership with the Bologna factory, operating two factory-level motorcycles and playing a crucial role in their development.

Opting not to continue its partnership with Ducati past 2024, it chose to align with Yamaha following Ducati's reversal of its initial choice to elevate Jorge Martin, opting instead for Marc Marquez to partner with Francesco Bagnaia in 2025.

Pramac's leader, Borsoi, has stated that Yamaha is highly receptive to their racing perspective, as they prepare two M1 bikes for riders Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira.

"Borsoi mentioned to GPOne that within the Yamaha team and its circle, the presence of numerous Italians makes communication smoother."

Communicating and comprehending one another was an effortless task, and their reception towards us was immediately warm; they embraced us, metaphorically speaking, integrating us into their family circle smoothly and without any complications.

"Actually, I have to admit they're really paying attention to our perspective on racing, including our approach to managing the weekend."

"We are available to assist them in any way possible."

"Our mindset is influenced by Ducati, which is currently leading the pack. However, I'm confident that as time progresses, we'll gradually achieve the outcomes Yamaha is worthy of and restore it to its leading position."

After consecutive years in contention for the world championship, Borsoi acknowledges that he's beginning anew with Yamaha in 2025, as the Japanese brand aims to climb the rankings.

Borsoi mentioned, "My background includes a time when I was constantly engaged in battles at the forefront, even prior to my tenure with Pramac."

"Perhaps I've grown too comfortable, yet it also requires a willingness to begin anew, reconstructing the foundation and recognizing the challenge involved in reviving a project such as Yamaha."

"This experience is something that could potentially make me better tomorrow, so I'm quite happy to embrace this challenge, especially since Yamaha has greeted us so warmly."

"They are highly motivated to return to their desired position and are spending substantial amounts of money to achieve this."

"It seems like this is an unprecedented move for Yamaha in terms of financial commitment. They've brought on board a significant number of technical staff and are undertaking numerous innovative projects."

“Therefore, the enthusiasm surrounding this project is palpable, and should we achieve success, it will mark another historic milestone for us, mirroring our previous triumph with Ducati.”

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Marco Bezzecchi stated, “We should hold off until we hear about Jorge.” He added, “Once we receive updates on Jorge, we will be able to determine our next steps.”

During a Wednesday lunch briefing with the media in Sepang, Marco Bezzecchi provided no new updates regarding the status of his Aprilia teammate and current MotoGP champion, Jorge Martin.

Martin was taken to a nearby hospital for additional examinations following a severe highside at Turn 2, marking his second crash of the morning.

An update from Aprilia states that he is currently experiencing pain in his left foot and right hand.

On the first morning of the Official Sepang Test, Martin was among a small group of riders who experienced falls, including two other competitors from the Aprilia team.

The outcome of Martin's test is currently uncertain. Meanwhile, Trackhouse's Raul Fernandez has been diagnosed with a fracture, and newcomer Ai Ogura emerged unscathed from a high-speed crash.

Fabio di Giannantonio from VR46 Ducati and Pedro Acosta from KTM are both believed to have been affected as well.

"I'm not really sure," Bezzecchi responded when questioned about the cause of numerous crashes.

"In Sepang, the only effective tyres for our needs are the soft ones on the rear, but we unfortunately don't have enough of them."

"I only use the medium tire, and having it on the back makes things quite challenging. The traction is minimal."

"I'm not aware of the other riders' crashes, but here's my personal experience while riding."

With Fernandez sidelined due to injury and Martin's participation uncertain for the remainder of the test, could Aprilia be required to modify Bezzecchi's testing schedule?

"I’m not sure. Initially, I’d suggest we hold off on making any decisions regarding Jorge,” the Italian responded.

I just saw that Raul has injured himself.

"We'll hold off until we receive an update on Jorge, after which we'll figure out our next steps. Right now, I'm afraid I don't have any additional information."

Focusing on his own racing endeavors, Bezzecchi, who was ranked 17th fastest at that moment, mentioned that he had tested the newest Aprilia innovations in comparison to the original 'Barcelona' 2025 model.

"We tested the Montmelo specification first, and then I switched to the newer version," he stated.

"I made some adjustments and then decided to revert to the Montmelo specifications. Luckily, we kept that older version handy."

"The introduction of the new components marks a minor advancement. However, it remains too soon to make any significant conclusions. I did notice some encouraging aspects, naturally."

Every adjustment I made showed improvement, yet I require more time on the bike to fully grasp the extent of the advancement from the previous model to the current one.

"However, I instantly sensed an improvement, which is why I decided to keep the new one."

Bezzecchi and Martin initially experienced the RS-GP at Barcelona with a noticeable strong sensation at the front and a lack of stability at the back, and this impression persisted.

Bezzecchi remarked, "This bike is handling differently than the one I rode last year," when talking about the GP23 Ducati. He added, "Naturally, the back of the bike still needs some tweaking."

"We faced this issue previously in Montmelo, with a lot of activity and changes happening, particularly."

"It seems to be a combination of the tires and the bike's electronic systems."

In general, I believe I need to spend more time on the bike to determine whether the issue lies with the tyres or the bike itself. Right now, it seems to be a combination of both.

He mentioned, "When it comes to braking, I immediately felt really confident. I'm braking hard and I'm pleased about it because I lost some of this aspect of my riding last year."

"As soon as I got on the bike, I noticed excellent stability in the front, which enabled me to apply the brakes with considerable force."

"We need to focus on improving everything else. Specifically, we have to address the aerodynamics and electronics, as the latter is particularly crucial."

Are you satisfied with the engine's performance?

"Certainly, having power is beneficial."

How does it stack up against the one you rode a few months back?

"Two motorcycles from Italy… Italians excel at crafting engines!"

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For two decades, Peter has been present in the racing paddock, witnessing both the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is currently at the center of the news regarding Suzuki's withdrawal and Marc Marquez's struggles with injuries.

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