Ducati's prominent leader expresses firm views on how Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia are handled

The approach towards Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia in the Ducati team has been a topic of conversation.

A key assistant to Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia has promised to offer the same level of support to both riders this season.

Manuel Poggiali serves as a rider coach for Ducati, dividing his attention between the factory's team garage and Gresini's. However, he is aware that Marquez and Bagnaia are the main focus.

He maintains that all competition between Ducati's factory riders will be conducted fairly.

According to Poggiali in an interview with Corsedimoto, the team appears to be the most accomplished in the circus world, boasting Marc's eight and Pecco's three world championships, achievements unmatched by any other team.

"However, that was then; our focus is on the current situation as our goal is to secure this championship."

"Our responsibility is to ensure that we support both riders equally, providing them with identical resources and creating optimal conditions for each to perform at their highest level."

"As a technical team and staff, this is the top priority."

This season, the mood inside the Ducati garage will be closely monitored.

Both Marquez and Bagnaia are eager to claim the MotoGP championship title in 2025.

It is yet to be determined if their enthusiasm will extend beyond its current state

Poggiali expresses confidence that Marquez will do well with the factory team.

"I believe that both Pecco and Marc are exceptionally quick riders, possessing great talent and having proven themselves as champions."

"Varying levels of qualifications, along with different opportunities and years of experience."

"I think both of them are exceptional riders and genuine champions; it will be an honor to collaborate with them."

"Ducati has a singular aim, and the person who performs best will achieve it, regardless of any surrounding factors."

Marquez, Bagnaia, and VR46’s Fabio di Giannantonio are set to have the GP25, which is anticipated to be the top-performing motorcycle in MotoGP this year.

Marquez needs to transition from riding last year's Ducati model to the newest version.

Armed with strong machinery, Marquez and Bagnaia are likely the top contenders for the championship.

Titleholder Jorge Martin faces the challenge of protecting his championship as he transitions to the Aprilia factory team.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter to receive the most recent updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special promotions from the paddock straight to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

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

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

Please refer to our Privacy Policy for additional details.

Breaking Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Copying or distributing any part of the text, images, or drawings, whether in whole or in part, is prohibited in any manner.

Crash.net

Somkiat Chantra will be testing two "new" motorcycles at the Sepang MotoGP Shakedown. "My team is now asking me to focus on the 2025 model…"

Somkiat Chantra is among the three newcomers participating in this year's MotoGP season. However, his season began later than expected during the Sepang MotoGP Shakedown test this weekend.

The rider from Thailand did not participate on the initial day of the three-day testing session, appearing only on the second and third days.

"We had a total of three days for testing, but I only spent two days testing since the team took two days to get the bike ready," explained Chantra.

He clarified that his absence on the first day was due to having two new Honda RC213V models for 2025 at his disposal this weekend.

"My bike was completely new, especially compared to the one I had in Barcelona, so now I have two brand new bikes," he mentioned.

"My team has asked me to collaborate on the 2025 bike and evaluate its performance relative to the 2024 model."

When Chantra finally started, his speed was not as fast as the two other newcomers this year, Ai Ogura and Fermin Aldeguer. However, he was getting better with each passing day.

"On the first day, as usual, I make an effort to inspect the motorcycle and familiarize myself with its electronic systems," he stated.

"I made an effort to use the device effectively in optimal spots. When I compared my performance to Takaaki Nakagami's last year, I noticed there were certain areas where I was slower at engaging the rear device. Now, we are making positive progress."

After retiring from competitive racing, Nakagami has taken on the role of an official test rider for HRC. Over the past three days, he has been a valuable asset for Chantra by riding alongside the Japanese team and analyzing his data.

He mentioned, "I spent Saturday with Taka."

Taka mentioned, "You're riding smoothly," and I simply took pleasure in being first. This is the time to begin working with the bike and getting accustomed to it.

"He didn't share any information with me yesterday, but during the official test, they will approach me."

After the Shakedown, Fermin Aldeguer mentioned that the most challenging part of adapting to MotoGP was the braking. For Chantra, not only was braking a major adjustment, but also the speed, the tires, and the angle of lean posed significant challenges.

"The first challenge for me is the speed," he explained. "Additionally, figuring out where to stop the bike is tough. Since switching to carbon brakes, the braking point feels different from Moto2, and the speed when entering corners is also unlike Moto2."

He mentioned, "The first time I used Michelin tires and then came here, I felt a significant difference compared to Moto2."

"When it comes to the lean angle, I feel like I'm constantly leaning, yet when I compare myself to Taka, I realize I'm still not reaching his level. However, my team reassures me, saying, 'Don't worry, you'll get there soon. You just need to learn gradually.'"

On the last day of testing, Chantra stood out as one of the busiest riders, emphasizing the physical preparation the Thai rider must undertake to gear up for the upcoming season.

"I'm feeling quite exhausted, but I'm aware of it," Chantra commented about his state following the test.

"When I initially moved up to Moto2, my body was completely exhausted, but eventually, my body adjusted to the bike and everything turned out fine."

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the freshest updates, unique content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock delivered straight to your email.

Please refer to our Privacy Policy for additional details.

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

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Tuned for Crash MotoGP

It is prohibited to fully or partially copy the text, images, or drawings in any manner.

Crash.Net is a platform dedicated

Aleix Espargaro found his performance at the Sepang MotoGP Shakedown test to be different from his expectations. On the first day, it was Taka's time that stood out, while the second day's sessions were affected by rain.

Aleix Espargaro returned to his role of testing for HRC during the MotoGP Shakedown test at Sepang this weekend. However, alterations in the schedule and rainy weather led to modifications in his agenda.

Although Espargaro faced challenges, he managed to clock the third-best time on the concluding day of the test, recording a 1:58.103. This performance surpassed all Honda riders except Johann Zarco during the qualifying session at the previous year's Malaysian Grand Prix.

The Spanish rider mentioned that he had hardly stopped riding since the previous official test held in Barcelona in November.

Espargaro shared with MotoGP.com that he has continuously been riding his bike since last year, traveling from Barcelona to Jerez, then to Thailand, and now to his current location.

"We clearly have a task at hand and plenty of work ahead, so we're doing our utmost to maximize track time to support the guys on the factory team."

Regrettably, my performance on the track wasn't what I had anticipated. On the first day, it was Takaaki Nakagami's session, and on the second day, the rain disrupted our plans.

"Essentially, I utilized the third day of the Shakedown, experimenting with various elements; Honda introduced a lot of new items for this test, and I am quite pleased with the results."

Espargaro elaborated on his upcoming testing plans, stating that he will not participate in the official test in Sepang scheduled for next week, choosing to concentrate on testing in the Iberian region instead.

He mentioned, "I'm pretty occupied at the moment. I won't be participating in the upcoming test with the factory team. However, I plan to head to Portimao in a few weeks. After that, we have testing sessions in Jerez and Valencia. There's quite a bit of testing ahead."

"We understand that these testing days are essential to improve the bike's performance, so I will give it my all."

Nakagami stated, "Aleix and I were putting in a lot of effort." Espargaro partnered with Takaaki Nakagami, who is also set to retire in 2024, for the official HRC testing. However, according to Nakagami, this collaboration was not originally planned.

"To begin with, I'm pleased to kick off the season," Nakagami expressed to MotoGP.com.

"Two weeks back, HRC conducted a test in Buriram. I was involved on one day, and Aleix Espargaro participated on the other. Initially, I wasn't supposed to ride in the Shakedown test, but following the Buriram test, they requested that I join the test team."

"I was supposed to work just one day, but I ended up working a day and a half."

Nakagami agreed with Espargaro, stating that their job is to assemble the optimal package for the factory race riders ahead of the official test scheduled for next week.

Over the past three days, our primary focus was on identifying a wide range of elements to evaluate, aiming to provide the factory riders with an optimal setup. Both Aleix and I dedicated significant effort to achieving the ideal balance for the bike, examining not just the chassis but also various components, including the engine and numerous other parts.

"Despite the demanding nature of the work, it's enjoyable to be riding here in the warm climate of Sepang. I'm pleased to have completed the Shakedown test, and now I'm looking forward to the official test."

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

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

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, special content, interviews, and offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email inbox.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking News

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

It is prohibited to reproduce the text, images, or illustrations, either in full or in part, in any manner.

Crash.Net

—

Reword

Fermin Aldeguer discusses the "wild" elements of adjusting to MotoGP.

"The initial day was quite challenging due to the incredible speed of this bike…"

During this weekend's Sepang MotoGP Shakedown test, newcomer Fermin Aldeguer experienced his initial days on the track for the 2025 MotoGP season.

After just four days of riding, the Spanish rider is still in the process of adjusting to the top-tier bikes, having spent the previous four years competing in Moto2.

"I am able to remain content because our work is conducted effectively," Aldeguer mentioned during the Sepang Shakedown.

"With each lap, we make enhancements to the bike, adjust the settings, and refine my riding technique."

"The initial day proved quite challenging due to the incredible speed of this bike. Having taken a lengthy winter hiatus, getting back to racing in MotoGP feels intense. However, I believe we performed exceptionally well and can remain composed."

The Spanish rider noted that the most challenging aspect to get used to is braking. This difficulty arises not only from the brakes' strong power but also from the rapid pace a MotoGP bike reaches when approaching a turn.

He mentioned that the hardest thing to adjust to is the braking point, as the speed at which they approach it is incredibly fast. It's quite challenging to grasp, especially with the use of a different brake disc.

"I need to gain a clearer understanding, but we are addressing this issue."

Aldeguer started the first day with lap times in the 2:00 range but improved to the 1:58 range by the third day.

He stated, "I'm not concentrating on lap times right now since ultimately we need to be two seconds quicker to reach the pole position record."

"Throughout each lap, I attempted to refine my riding technique, aiming to be slightly more assertive, which suits this bike better."

In conclusion, I believe I just need some time to practice and figure out where I can make improvements.

He mentioned, "I need to gain a better understanding of the tires, but at this stage, we're quite pleased. I've been able to effectively utilize the rear tire, and now I just need to improve my grasp of the front tire for braking purposes."

Following the Barcelona test, Aldeguer identified the need to refine his posture on the motorcycle, indicating that this aspect is still being developed.

"We're also focusing on adjusting my posture since it's crucial for maneuvering the bike effectively in MotoGP," he explained.

"I just need to get more laps in, improve my comfort level, and adjust the bike's settings to remain calmer while riding. I must modify my technique to achieve this."

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest MotoGP updates, special content, interviews, and offers straight to your email from the paddock.

To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.

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

Explore Further

Join Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Stories

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

It is not allowed to fully or partially copy text, images, or drawings in any manner.

Crash.Net is a website dedicated

2025 Sepang MotoGP Shakedown Test Outcomes – Day 3 (Sunday)

Lap timing updates as of midday for the third and concluding day of the 2025 MotoGP Shakedown test at Sepang on Sunday.

Updates on results provided every hour…

The transponders for the Yamaha test team do not have specific rider names attached; instead, they use the generic term "Test Rider" for each of their motorcycles.

On the first day and for the majority of the second day, Andrea Dovizioso was the rider on the track. Afterwards, Augusto Fernandez experienced his initial laps on the M1 towards the close of the second day and has been actively participating from the beginning of the third day.

Quickest time on the second day:

Alex Rins, riding for Yamaha, completed a lap in 1 minute

Quickest time recorded on the first day:

Pol Espargaro, riding for KTM, achieved a lap time of 1 minute

Sepang MotoGP official records

Fastest lap: Francesco Bagnaia set a time of 1 minute and 56.337 seconds in 2024.

Quickest lap in the race: Alex Marquez clocked 1 minute 58.979 seconds in 2023.

The last day of the 2025 Sepang MotoGP Shakedown test is set for Sunday. This event is accessible to newcomers such as Ai Ogura from Trackhouse, Fermin Aldeguer representing Gresini, and Somkiat Chantra from LCR. Additionally, factory test riders and competitors from Yamaha and Honda are also participating.

Pol Espargaro led the field for KTM on the first day, while Yamaha riders Fabio Quartararo, Alex Rins, Jack Miller, and Miguel Oliveira were among the participants on the second day.

Rins clinched the top spot while Quartararo secured third place on the timing sheet, with Espargaro from KTM taking the second position. Aldeguer and Ogura followed in fourth and fifth, respectively, leaving Jack Miller and Dani Pedrosa just behind them.

The Sepang test, which includes participation from all teams and riders, is scheduled to take place from February 5 to 7.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent news, exclusive content, interviews, and offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.

For two decades, Peter has been a staple in the paddock, witnessing the career of Valentino Rossi from start to finish. He is deeply involved in covering the news about Suzuki's departure and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with his injuries.

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, special content, interviews, and offers from the MotoGP scene straight to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Stories

Subscribe to Crash F1

Subscribe to Crash MotoGP

It is prohibited to reproduce text, photos, or images, whether in whole or in part, in any manner.

Crash.Net has been rephr

Yamaha discusses Inline, V4, and 850cc engines: A trio of motorcycles for three MotoGP seasons? – Exclusive

"We might see three different bike setups over three seasons… It's an exhilarating yet complex period."

Yamaha's MotoGP team, now featuring more riders, is set to compete with the newest model of the Inline4 engine-powered M1 in the 2025 season.

The factory's latest V4 model might first appear as a special entry before possibly being launched for the 2026 World Championship.

In light of this, and given that the new MotoGP rules for 850cc engines will be implemented in 2027, Yamaha might kick off each of the upcoming three racing seasons with a distinct bike setup.

During an interview with Crash.net at Sepang, Paolo Pavesio, who has succeeded Lin Jarvis as the managing director of Yamaha Motor Racing and the team principal of Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP, outlined the factory's future strategies.

Crash.net: Paolo, what are your expectations for the Shakedown test?

Paolo Pavesio expressed the significance of having two additional days, stating they hold great importance for their efforts. He confirmed the development of a V4, clarifying that it involves more than just introducing a new engine; it represents the creation of an entirely new motorcycle. He also highlighted that they are currently competing with an Inline bike that underwent significant updates during the winter season.

"We're putting in a significant amount of extra work because our goal is to become competitive quickly. We can't simply halt our progress at this stage since we're working towards something for 2026."

"It is indeed challenging, but our focus is on enhancing the existing M1 to the best of our ability. This is the reason we have introduced a new aerodynamic setup. We are also pursuing a new approach with the chassis and making some electronic upgrades. Additionally, there are advancements being made to the engine, which will carry on into the start of the season."

"We're currently working on the usual pre-season enhancements for the motorcycle."

Crash.net: Is the development process proceeding as expected despite the V4 initiative?

Paolo Pavesio remarked, "We're putting in just as much effort as we always have, even while working on the V4 project simultaneously… It's akin to the experience of having twins!"

All of our factory racers are actively involved in the development of the Inline racing machine. The development team is also assisting with this process. Additionally, they will soon turn their attention to the V4 model once the new version is ready for its debut.

"In 2025, it's evident that the factory teams will compete using the M1 with an Inline4 engine."

Crash.net: The entire year?

Paolo Pavesio commented, "Absolutely. It's unrealistic to think about switching to the V4 model in the middle of the season. What's more feasible, and our goal, though it's uncertain due to the ongoing development, is that if the V4 bike reaches a certain level of readiness, we might consider utilizing a few of the six wild-card opportunities with Augusto, potentially with the new setup."

Crash.net: Will Augusto Fernandez participate in all six wild-card races?

Paolo Pavesio explained that Dovi is currently stepping in for Cal, who is unable to compete due to fitness issues. However, when it comes to racing, the decision to bring in Augusto was influenced by his active status as a racer. At 27 years old, Augusto is eager to keep competing, making him a perfect fit to work alongside their seasoned test riders who perform slightly different roles.

Crash.net is inquiring about the current condition of the V4. Can you provide an update?

Paolo Pavesio stated, "It is present and operational, but it is not yet prepared for racing."

Crash.net: So, does this mean you won't be participating in any of the tests at

Paolo Pavesio clarified that the setup being discussed isn't present in Malaysia. He emphasized the significance of the next five days, which include both the Shakedown and Official sessions, in determining the strategy for 2025. The aim is to manufacture the necessary components for the inaugural race. While they are investing heavily, resources, including personnel, are not infinite. This test is primarily designed to gear up for the upcoming racing season.

Crash.net: Could you tell us more about the upcoming 850cc motorcycle set to release in 2027

Paolo Pavesio mentioned, "To draw another comparison, the 850 is likely to be a 'descendant' of either the Inline4 or V4, both of which are 1000cc motorcycles."

"We see significant promise in the V4 setup, which is why we're focusing on its development. Is it possible to improve upon the current design? We hope so. If successful, we will likely gain insights from this 1000cc V4 configuration that could benefit the 850 model. Alternatively, the Inline4 might prove to be superior."

"This will be addressed shortly, as we are paying attention to the 850."

"Today, you're focusing on the Inline4. Tomorrow, your attention shifts to the V4. However, it's crucial to also prepare for the future with the 850cc model. This could potentially lead to having three different bike configurations over the course of three seasons."

"This is a thrilling yet complex period."

Sign up for our MotoGP Updates

Receive the newest MotoGP stories, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

For two decades, Peter has been present in the paddock, witnessing the career of Valentino Rossi from start to finish. He is currently leading the coverage of Suzuki's departure and the challenges Marc Marquez faces due to his injuries.

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email inbox.

To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.

Breaking Updates

Additional Stories

Track Crash F1

Track Crash MotoGP

Copying or reproducing text, photos, or images, whether in full or partially, is prohibited in any manner.

Crash.Net is a website dedicated

2025 Sepang MotoGP Shakedown Test – Day 3: LIVE Coverage

Stay tuned for real-time updates from the third and concluding day of the 2025 Sepang MotoGP Shakedown test happening this Sunday.

On Sunday morning at 10 am in Malaysia, the last day of the 2025 Sepang Shakedown test kicked off. This session provides rookies, test riders, and racers from Yamaha and Honda with a final opportunity to get on the track before the Official MotoGP test next week.

On the second day of the event, Yamaha's quartet of race riders entered the competition. Alex Rins managed to claim the top spot by a slim margin, surpassing KTM’s first-day leader, Pol Espargaro, with a lap time of 1 minute and 58.745 seconds.

Alex Rins' teammate, Fabio Quartararo, secured third place, followed by newcomers Ai Ogura and Fermin Aldeguer. Meanwhile, Jack Miller from Pramac Yamaha and Dani Pedrosa, who is Espargaro's testing partner, rounded out the top six.

The Sepang test, which will include all the race riders for the 2025 season, is scheduled to occur from February 5th to 7

After thirty minutes of testing, Aleix Espargaro has taken the lead on the timesheets for Honda, clocking a lap time in the mid-58-second range, which marks the fastest time recorded this week!

Quartararo is slightly behind in pace, while newcomer Aldeguer takes the third spot.

Newcomer Somkiat Chantra is progressing well with LCR, standing out as the sole Honda racer apart from HRC's test rider Aleix Espargaro.

Jack Miller, who recently joined the Pramac Yamaha team, leads the pack following the first 15 minutes of testing.

The Australian recorded a time of 1 minute 59.444 seconds, which is approximately 0.2 seconds slower than his best time from the previous day.

After ten minutes, Ogura leads with the quickest time, followed by Rins, as both clock in at one minute and 59 seconds.

Next were Quartararo, Savadori, Aleix Espargaro, Jack Miller, and Fermin Aldeguer.

First-time competitor Ai Ogura is also venturing out.

Fabio Quartararo, who is part of the Monster Yamaha team, is on the track alongside Rins. The riders of the M1 have a wide variety of new components to assess during the two test sessions at Sepang. These evaluations will help decide the specifications for the 2025 season's bike.

Just a quick note to remember

Quickest time on the second day:

Alex Rins recorded a time of 1 minute and 58.745

Sepang MotoGP official records:

Fastest lap time: Francesco Bagnaia clocked in at 1 minute 56.337 seconds (2024).

Quickest lap in the race: Alex Marquez clocked at 1 minute and 58.979 seconds (2023)

The signal is green, and Alex Rins, who posted the quickest time on the second day, immediately exits the pit lane.

Greetings from Sepang! We are just moments away from the 10 a.m. track opening for the last day of the 2025 Sepang Shakedown test.

Page Navigation

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight in your email.

To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.

Breaking Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Replicating any part or the entirety of text, images, or drawings in any manner is prohibited.

Crash.Net is a website that

2025 Sepang MotoGP Shakedown Test – Day 2: LIVE

Real-time coverage from the second day of the Sepang MotoGP Shakedown test happening on Saturday.

Expectations are high for the second day of the Sepang Shakedown test as the quartet of Yamaha racers will be entering the fray, after the team's unveiling event the previous evening.

Nonetheless, a wet course ensured that no sound was heard from the track when the official testing commenced at 10am.

On Friday, newcomer Somkiat Chantra was conspicuously missing, while KTM's test pilot Pol Espargaro led the pack, followed closely by newcomer and current Moto2 titleholder Ai Ogura. HRC's latest test addition, Takaaki Nakagami, secured the third spot.

Newcomers, official test pilots, along with Honda and Yamaha racing competitors, qualify to participate in the Shakedown.

However, Honda team racers Joan Mir and Luca Marini will be absent once more today because of their team unveiling event in Jakarta.

The scheduled Sepang trial, including all racers for the 2025 season, is set from February 5th to 7th.

End-of-Day 2 lap times (6pm) – Access Here

The second day of the Shakedown concluded at 6pm, with Yamaha's Alex Rins narrowly clinching the lead, edging out KTM's Pol Espargaro by a mere 0.003 seconds as the final moments ticked down.

Fabio Quartararo secured a spot among the top three for the M1 team, with newcomers Ai Ogura from Trackhouse and Fermin Aldeguer of Gresini making a notable appearance in 4th and 5th places, respectively, with Jack Miller of Pramac coming in close behind.

Newcomer Ai Ogura records his fastest lap yet during the test, securing second place in the timings, just 0.102 seconds behind Quartararo.

Yamaha announced its strategy to evaluate the 2024 season's package by contrasting it with various components slated for release in 2025.

Currently, Quartararo is performing comparably on both of his motorcycles, recording a leading test time of 1 minute and 58.812 seconds on one bike, and a close time of 1 minute and 59.139 seconds on the second bike.

Newcomer Fermin Aldeguer matches Fabio Quartararo's pace with laps in the 1 minute 58 seconds range – CLICK HERE

As of 4pm, with two hours remaining in the testing session, Fabio Quartararo leads for Monster Yamaha, recording the fastest lap at 1 minute 58.812 seconds. He stands as the sole rider to break into the 1 minute 58 second range this week. However, in a conversation with Crash.net the previous night, he expressed his ambition to achieve a lap time in the 1 minute 56 second bracket before testing concludes…

Pol Espargaro riding for KTM, alongside Ai Ogura with Trackhouse Aprilia, Fermin Aldeguer representing Gresini Ducati, Dani Pedrosa also from KTM, Aleix Espargaro on a Honda, Jack Miller from Pramac Yamaha, and Michele Pirro for Ducati, rounded out the leading eight positions.

It

Hazrin captures an excellent photo of the latest KTM salad box and exhaust configuration during a race:

Latest updates to KTM's rear seat and exhaust system ?#SepangShakedown#MotoGPpic.twitter.com/NjW5DvZgpy— Hazrin CRIC (@hazrin) February 1, 2025

Aleix joins the ranks of Honda riders on the circuit today, alongside Takaaki Nakagami and Somkiat Chantra, marking a trio.

At the recent unveiling event for Pramac Yamaha, which took place last night, Johann Zarco, who currently races for LCR Honda and used to be part of Pramac, made an appearance as a guest. However, he did not participate in today's riding activities.

Team Honda's Joan Mir and Luca Marini are currently showcasing their new team colors in Indonesia.

Aleix Espargaro is currently testing for HRC and – Latest News – has taken over Takaaki Nakagami's position in the timing displays, indicating he's riding the test bikes originally allocated to Taka.

Quartararo, donning his vibrant green number 20 and matching helmet, stands out as the sole competitor to clock in the 1m 58s range, securing the top two spots on the leaderboard with his pair of motorcycles. Following him is Pol Espargaro, representing KTM, trailing by 0.454 seconds.

Update: Trackhouse has informed Crash.net that it was indeed Ogura's motorcycle that was returned to the pit area, however, they clarified that there was no crash involved (indicating a technical problem).

By 3pm, Ogura was still leading in speed, though it seemed his motorcycle was later brought back on a trailer.

Just past 3pm, Fabio Quartararo of Yamaha ascended to the leading position, clocking in at 1 minute and 59.139 seconds, indicating the possibility of achieving lap times in the 1 minute and 58 seconds range before the day concludes.

At 2:49pm local time, newcomers led the way as Trackhouse Aprilia's Ai Ogura took a slim lead of 0.137 seconds over Gresini Ducati's Aldeguer, marking a one-two finish for the rookies.

As we near 2 pm local time, 13 riders have taken to the track, with Fermin Aldeguer of Gresini leading the pack, followed closely by the KTMs ridden by Pol Espargaro and Dani Pedrosa.

Yamaha rider Fabio Quartararo and Honda's Takaaki Nakagami have also clocked times under 2 minutes.

In a unique move, the Yamaha testing crew remains the sole group without specific rider names linked to their transponders, opting instead to label each of their motorcycles with the generic term "Test Rider."

Currently, Andrea Dovizioso has been on the track for the entirety of day 1. However, newcomer test rider Augusto Fernandez is anticipated to make his first appearance later today.

Quartararo's dominance was short-lived, as Dani Pedrosa and subsequently newcomer Fermin Aldeguer surpassed the French rider.

Aldeguer achieved a lap time of 1 minute and 59.479 seconds, marking an improvement of 0.6 seconds over his performance on the first day.

Follow this link for the Day 2 results of the 2025 Sepang MotoGP Shakedown Test, as of 1pm.

Fabio Quartararo quickly takes the lead during his initial attempt.

Newcomer Somkiat Chantra successfully finishes his inaugural MotoGP laps for the year.

As 1pm nears, newcomers Fermin Aldeguer and Ai Ogura enter into the Saturday events.

LCR's Somkiat Chantra was nowhere to be found on the first day.

Jack Miller returns to the pits following his initial laps of 2025 with Pramac Yamaha.

On the first day, Espargaro, who was leading, has climbed to the second position, yet he trails Nakagami by 1.090 seconds.

Pol Espargaro has emerged as the fifth racer to hit the circuit today.

At half past twelve, Takaaki Nakagami leads the pack for HRC, clocking the day's initial lap under 2 minutes at 1 minute and 59 seconds.

Pirro, Miller, and Dani Pedrosa have also recorded a lap time.

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive up-to-date MotoGP reports, exclusive stories, interviews, and special offers straight from the racetrack to your email.

For additional details, refer to our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

It is not allowed to fully or partially replicate texts, photos, or illustrations in any manner.

SmashLink

MV Agusta Parts Ways with KTM

MV Agusta has declared its separation from KTM, resulting in the Sardarov family taking back complete ownership of the firm.

A little more than two years since the Pierer Mobility Group, via its subsidiary KTM AG, initially purchased shares in MV Agusta, the Italian company has now fully regained its independence.

On January 31, MV Agusta revealed in a statement that the Italian motorcycle manufacturer, which had seen 50.1 per cent of its ownership transferred to KTM AG since the previous spring, will revert to being completely overseen by its CEO, Timur Sardarov.

The Italian firm announced that KTM's recent economic difficulties prompted the action.

"The statement highlights that MV Agusta's operations might have faced significant challenges due to the recent financial developments at Pierer Mobility AG, despite having a prosperous year."

The statement further clarifies that MV Agusta will remain unaffected by KTM AG's current reorganization efforts amidst its bankruptcy processes, enabling the company to persist in its trajectory of favorable expansion.

MV's announcement confirms that despite parting ways with KTM and PMG, its worldwide network of dealerships will maintain their operations as normal.

Timur Sardarov expressed, "This is a proud moment for everyone at MV Agusta. Achieving complete ownership of the company signifies that we are now more robust and concentrated on achieving excellence than before."

In the last two years, the firm has considerably enhanced its procedures, infrastructure, and employee base.

The foundational shifts implemented are key to the remarkable outcomes realized in 2024 and are expected to sustain our prosperity moving forward.

"I am completely assured in the capabilities of our executive team, whose foresight, together with the commitment and expertise of our revitalized dealership network, will elevate MV Agusta to unprecedented levels.

"My pledge, along with my family's, is to serve as an essential influence for the Varese squad, the local area, and all our collaborators."

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest MotoGP updates, exclusive content, conversations, and special offers straight from the track to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

In August 2024, Alex became part of the Crash.net crew after spending two years reporting on motorcycle racing and consumer news for Visordown.

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive up-to-date MotoGP updates, exclusive content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the racetrack to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

Copying or replicating any part of the text, images, or graphics in any manner is strictly prohibited.

Unfortunately, without seeing the specific

Honda unveils brand-new MotoGP colors, announces Castrol as the primary sponsor

This marks the first season since 1994 that the official Honda team will not have Repsol as their sponsor

The Honda team has revealed a completely new color scheme for the 2025 MotoGP championship, marking a departure from its three-decade-long sponsorship deal with Repsol, as Castrol steps in to take its place.

From 1995 onwards, every premier class racing factory Honda has featured a Repsol-themed paint scheme, marking the Spanish oil major's role as the principal sponsor.

Nonetheless, the emblematic partnership concluded last year when the Honda team officially revealed its new factory HRC colors for the 2025 season during its launch event in Indonesia.

Honda announced that starting in 2025, Castrol will be its main sponsor.

Honda faced a challenging 2024 season, ending up at the bottom of the constructors' standings with a mere 75 points.

Discover More: Honda's Journey to Identifying Its Genuine MotoGP Captain in 2024

The team's competitors, Joan Mir and Luca Marini, ended up at the bottom of the championship rankings, with the company's top performance in a Grand Prix being an eighth-place finish by LCR's Johann Zarco during a rainy Thai GP.

Zarco led Honda's rankings, holding the 17th spot.

The previous year also represented the third time in five years that Honda failed to secure a race victory.

In an effort to climb back up the competitive ladder, Honda has implemented major changes to its team lineup for the 2025 season.

In a significant move, it has brought on board Romano Albesiano from Aprilia to assume the role of technical director, succeeding Ken Kawauchi, who has transitioned to the test team.

Albesiano played a pivotal role in transforming Aprilia from the slowest factory team on the grid upon its MotoGP comeback in 2015, to a team celebrating numerous grand prix victories throughout his decade-long tenure with the Italian brand.

Joining Aprilia's test team as well, former three-time grand prix champion Aleix Espargaro steps in, having concluded his career in full-time racing at the close of the previous season.

Honda became the last manufacturer team to reveal its livery for the 2025 season, succeeding Yamaha and KTM who had made their announcements in the two days prior.

Only the LCR team remains to unveil its colors for the upcoming season, with the announcement scheduled for February 8, just a day prior to the official MotoGP season kickoff event.

This week, Honda has actively participated in the Sepang shakedown, taking advantage of the opportunity to conduct unrestricted testing throughout the year with its race riders, thanks to concessions.

The official testing period kicks off in Malaysia from February 5th to 7th, followed by the concluding pre-season tests in Thailand on February 12th and 13th. This sets the stage for the 2025 season, which commences with races from February 28th to March 2nd in Buriram.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive up-to-date MotoGP updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers straight from the racetrack to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Bulletin

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP developments, behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive conversations, and special offers delivered straight to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Reproducing text, photos, or illustrations in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Collision.Web

Results from the Second Day of the 2025 Sepang MotoGP Shakedown Test – Saturday

The lap times following Saturday's completion of day two at the 2025 Sepang MotoGP Shakedown test.

Here are the final lap times from day two of the Sepang MotoGP Shakedown test, with Yamaha's Alex Rins leading the pack.

*Beginner.

The times shown represent the fastest single lap achieved by each rider today, not the quickest lap on each unique motorcycle they rode.

The Yamaha testing squad stands out as they do not assign specific rider names to their transponders, opting instead to label all of their motorcycles with the generic title "Test Rider."

Andrea Dovizioso spent the entirety of the first day riding for the Yamaha test team and continued to do so for the majority of the second day. Towards the close of day two, Augusto Fernandez embarked on his initial laps as a test rider for Yamaha.

In the final moments, Alex Rins climbed to the lead position in the time rankings, surpassing KTM’s Pol Espargaro and his Monster Yamaha colleague, Fabio Quartararo.

Ai Ogura secured the fourth position and was the leading newcomer, closely followed by Fermin Aldeguer of Gresini Ducati. On the second day, both riders were prominent at the forefront of the leaderboard, around the time Somkiat Chantra experienced his initial MotoGP rounds of the year with LCR Honda.

In addition to Rins and Quartararo, Pramac Yamaha's newest team members, Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira, also took to the track, alongside Aleix Espargaro who alternated rides on the HRC test bike with Takaaki Nakagami.

The last day of the preliminary tests is scheduled for tomorrow, Sunday.

Quickest first day record:

Pol Espargaro, riding for KTM, clocked a time of 1 minute

I

The times mentioned represent the fastest lap each rider achieved today, regardless of the various bikes they may have ridden.

The Yamaha testing squad stands out as the sole group whose transponders do not display specific rider names, instead uniformly labeling each of their motorcycles as "Test Rider".

Andrea Dovizioso spent the entirety of the first day riding for the Yamaha test team and returned to the track for a second day. Meanwhile, Augusto Fernandez has joined the activities this weekend as well.

Quickest opening day record:

Pol Espargaro, riding for KTM, clocked a time of 1 minute

Authorized Records from Sepang MotoGP

Quickest round: Francesco Bagnaia on a Ducati clocked at 1 minute and 56.337 seconds (2024)

Quickest lap time: Alex Marquez on a Ducati clocked 1 minute and 58.979 seconds (2023)

The Sepang MotoGP Shakedown test scheduled for 2025, welcoming newcomers Ai Ogura (Trackhouse), Fermin Aldeguer (Gresini), and Somkiat Chantra (LCR), along with factory test riders and competing racers from Yamaha and Honda, is set to commence this Friday in Malaysia.

Pol Espargaro led the pack for KTM on the initial day, with Yamaha's racers, including Fabio Quartararo, Alex Rins, Jack Miller, and Miguel Oliveira, set to participate on the following day following their team's unveiling in Kuala Lumpur the previous evening.

Examinations are scheduled from 10 in the morning until 6 in the evening, however, a wet circuit due to nighttime rainfall (along with the necessity to conserve tires allocated for private testing) resulted in a sluggish beginning to the second day, with only Michele Pirro having finished a lap by noon.

The authorized test at Sepang, open to all teams and competitors, is scheduled from February 5th to 7th…

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the heart of the MotoGP world straight to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Peter, with two decades of experience in the paddock, witnessed Valentino Rossi's era from start to finish. He's leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with his injuries.

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Bulletin

Receive the newest updates, behind-the-scenes content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers from the racing circuit straight to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

It is strictly forbidden to copy or replicate any part of the text, images, or illustrations in any manner.

Smash.Web

Former Marc Marquez MotoGP team leader shows Joan Mir positive signs for Honda future

“Last week, I had a conversation with Santi, and he seemed pleased”

Joan Mir reveals that his MotoGP crew chief, Santi Hernandez, has provided positive feedback, indicating that Honda is making progress with its 2025 motorcycle development.

Heading into 2025, Honda is looking to rebound from one of its poorest performances in grand prix racing history, ending the previous season with a mere 75 points in the constructors' championship and marking its third season without a victory in the last five years.

The Japanese brand has implemented several staff alterations for the upcoming season, which notably includes bringing in Romano Albesiano from Aprilia to serve as the technical director.

Mir, who concluded the previous season just above the bottom of the leaderboard among regular riders with 21 points, frequently expressed dissatisfaction with Honda's perceived failure to advance throughout 2024.

As winter testing is set to start in Malaysia next week, Mir has received assurances from his crew chief Hernandez, who served alongside Marc Marquez in MotoGP from 2013 to 2023, about Honda's advancements.

"He mentioned that he had a conversation with Santi the previous week, noting Santi seemed pleased," he explained after unveiling Honda's brand new livery in Indonesia.

"Santi is an individual who expresses feelings with clarity."

"He is a person who openly expresses his feelings. He stated, 'Joan, pay attention: at the beginning of last year, I mentioned that given the path they chose, it's likely going to be challenging. However, this year, perhaps I have something slightly different to say.'"

"Without a doubt, the year ahead will pose challenges, yet I'm beginning to notice a sense of peace, which brings me joy and confidence in the journey ahead."

Albesiano officially commenced his duties at Honda in January, and Mir is confident that the Japanese brand will grant the Italian engineer the necessary "freedom" to enhance the RC213V.

"He believes that when individuals such as Romano become part of the squad, it's particularly impactful, more so than Aleix [Espargaro], because ultimately his role is to serve as a test rider and to provide his feedback," he further mentioned.

Aleix's influence within the engineering framework is negligible. It's Romano who needs to adjust his approach to fit with Honda's operations – not so much implement a new method, but rather modify his existing one.

Based on my observations, he's extremely systematic. There's a specific procedure we adhere to. Every day, we stick to the guidelines, as he prefers everything to be explicitly defined.

"He's adopted this approach because it has been successful for him previously, so it's understandable that he desires to implement it here at Honda."

"I'm curious to know whether Honda will grant him complete autonomy to utilize all of his capabilities. Likely so. Observing his adjustment to everything with such a positive attitude is encouraging."

Honda's evaluation crew has already hit the circuit this weekend for the Sepang shakedown, wrapping up on Sunday, before the formal testing session scheduled for February 5-7.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent updates, exclusive stories, interviews, and special offers from the racing world straight to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Bulletin

Receive the newest updates, exclusive stories, interviews, and special offers from the circuit straight to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Copying or replicating any portion of the text, photos, or images in any manner is strictly prohibited.

Accident.Web