New entrants in MotoGP face a myriad of challenges to tackle – will they manage?

Novices share insights from their initial experience at the Sepang trial run

Three newcomers to MotoGP are steadily becoming acquainted with their new bikes.

Trackhouse Aprilia's Ai Ogura, Gresini Ducati's Fermin Aldeguer, and LCR Honda's Somkiat Chantra comprise the set of three newcomers joining the top tier in 2025.

They wrapped up the three-day trial run in Sepang ahead of most of their competitors making their way back to the circuit this week for the sanctioned testing session.

The expectation for newcomers to immediately excel is set to intensify shortly.

Trackhouse's Ogura commented, "The season kicked off well for us. We put in solid work throughout all three days.

"At present, anything that happens is seen as a good sign."

Ogura mentioned regarding the formal trial this week, "I've barely spent time on a MotoGP motorcycle. There's a multitude of aspects to enhance!

As of now, I don't see any specific areas that need enhancement.

"Round after round, throughout each practice, I focus on enhancing the motorcycle. Our aim is to reach the pinnacle."

Aldeguer, who stepped in for Marc Marquez at Gresini, remarked, "I felt comfortable during the shakedown test, although the initial day was challenging."

"It was an intense physical experience!"

We progressed steadily, making significant improvements with each lap. We've managed to achieve a commendable time, which is crucial. Our continuous efforts are already yielding positive results.

"I've managed to cut down my time by two seconds. However, the focus isn't solely on the clock. We must maintain our composure and strive for enhancement alongside elite riders and under more favorable conditions."

"MotoGP motorcycles present a greater challenge compared to those in Moto2. Additionally, their races span a longer duration."

I need to keep improving my fitness level to make it to Thailand.

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Chantra, stepping into MotoGP with the least competitive motorcycle, remarked, "During the shakedown, I spent two days. On the first day, our focus was on getting a feel for the motorcycle's performance. It was a beneficial day for me to experience the new bike.

"I attempted to understand the bike's operation and its electronic systems, which was a departure from the Barcelona trial."

"On the subsequent day, we conducted an alternative examination and enhanced our circuit time."

"Yet, I remain at a distance."

Chantra explained his improvement strategy, stating, "Upon reviewing Taka's data and comparing it with my own, I realized I was significantly behind in Sectors 1, 2, and 3, although I performed well in Sector 4."

"My speed significantly decreased around the bends. In the areas where you stop and then accelerate again, the experience was much the same."

The three newcomers are set to unite with the rest of the MotoGP competitors for a three-day trial at Sepang, scheduled for February 5-7 this week.

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Pecco Bagnaia informs Marc Marquez: “Our collaboration will continue until…”

“We both understand the significance of this moment because we are intelligent individuals."

Two-time MotoGP champion Francesco Bagnaia has expressed his intention to collaborate with Marc Marquez throughout the testing phase to prepare the GP25 for the upcoming season's initial race.

After Marquez was revealed to be joining the factory Ducati team as Bagnaia’s teammate for the 2025 season, the two have continued to keep a friendly relationship.

Before reaching that stage, there were significant on-track incidents, with the most prominent being their collision at the Portuguese Grand Prix.

Throughout the winter, discussions have centered on the anticipated rivalry between the duo as they are predicted to compete for the championship title.

Bagnaia emphasized that both of them need to collaborate during winter testing to optimize the GP25 for the season opener in Thailand later this month.

As the sun goes down in Sepang, Malaysia, Ducati's team works on Pecco Bagnaia's bike. #MotoGP #SepangTest pic.twitter.com/wmy1CUE67B— Crash MotoGP (@crash_motogp) February 4, 2025

He mentioned that at the moment, it's acceptable for us to be satisfied with the current arrangement.

"In Barcelona, our requests and emotions were aligned, so I believe we don't require much variation."

"My approach will remain consistent, and his approach will be unchanged as well."

"We will collaborate up until the initial race."

"We're intelligent individuals who understand the significance of this moment."

"The relationship between teammates is typical, and it should be this way because mutual respect is the most important aspect."

Bagnaia commends Ducati ahead of Sepang

Bagnaia appreciates Ducati's efforts, stating that the company has performed "exceptionally well" in providing the updates to the GP25 that both riders asked for after the test in Barcelona last November.

He mentioned, "In my opinion, regarding the requests Marc and I made, they performed exceptionally well."

"The agreement was challenging to reach because the hybrid bicycle we evaluated in Barcelona performed excellently on straight paths, but it lacked in other aspects."

"I am fully aware of the effort they put in to bring us joy, and I believe they succeeded."

"Let's wait for tomorrow. We have many activities to explore and numerous tasks to accomplish."

"I am genuinely wishing for dry weather since there will be three consecutive days dedicated to testing."

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Valentino Rossi offers Pecco Bagnaia three pieces of advice to counter Marc Marquez

The iconic MotoGP racer was well-known for his intense competition with Marquez

Valentino Rossi has advised Francesco Bagnaia to stay cautious and avoid pitfalls while competing against Marc Marquez, his new Ducati MotoGP teammate, in 2025.

Marquez joins the factory Ducati team alongside two-time world champion Bagnaia this year, having turned down a factory bike offer from the Pramac team.

Bagnaia and Marquez experienced multiple intense moments during races last season, with their most significant incident being a crash at the Portuguese Grand Prix. This incident resulted in a heated confrontation near the stewards' office.

Discover further: Exploring Valentino Rossi's journey towards securing his tenth world championship

Rossi harbors a deep-seated animosity towards Marquez, a conflict that began in 2015, stemming from Rossi's conviction that Marquez intentionally undermined his bid for the championship.

Rossi continues to embrace this conviction, which he brought to public attention again last year while being a guest on the podcast of ex-Moto3 competitor Andrea Migno.

In a recent conversation with Corriere della Serra, Rossi was queried about the three pieces of advice he would offer his protégé to get ready for a direct competition with Marquez in 2025.

"Some days you need to secure a victory, while on others, it's about accumulating points," he remarked.

Last year, he didn't manage to achieve that, otherwise he would have secured his third world championship as well.

"Avoid getting caught in manipulations or psychological tricks, and resist being influenced or controlled by your colleague."

"In contests of skill, enjoy yourself and attempt the unimaginable."

Bagnaia fell short of securing his third championship title by a margin of 10 points last season, losing to his Pramac Ducati competitor Jorge Martin. His bid for the championship was adversely affected by failing to score in eight races throughout the season.

Throughout his time in MotoGP, Rossi had several notable competitors, including Sete Gibernau, Max Biaggi, and Jorge Lorenzo.

Regarding these competitions, Rossi mentioned, "Competing against them brings about an intense competitive animosity."

"However, when you pause, admiration continues for those who experienced feelings and strains alongside you."

"When I encounter Stoner, it's the same feeling. Seeing Gibernau or Lorenzo again brings me joy; adversaries who always maintained a level of aggression without crossing the line."

During the winter season, Rossi extended an invitation to Stoner to spend a day riding at his VR46 Ranch located in Tavullia.

The individual who has clinched the grand prix championship nine times is set to commence his second complete season in the World Endurance Championship, competing in the LMGT3 category with WRT BMW this year.

Before this event, Rossi had previously begun his car racing season with an impressive second-place finish at the Bathurst 12 Hour the previous weekend.

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Anticipation builds around Marc Marquez’s Ducati aerodynamics at Sepang trial

This week's 2025 Sepang pre-season trial is discussed in the team's preview on the Crash MotoGP Podcast

The excitement of MotoGP racing returns in 2025 with the season's inaugural official pre-season test scheduled in Malaysia from February 5th to 7th.

A handful of rookies and seasoned riders with concessions have already hit the track at Sepang for preliminary runs, but this week, the full lineup for the 2025 season will gather in Malaysia for their initial group session since November 19.

The upcoming pre-season is packed with excitement, featuring notable changes among riders, the introduction of three newcomers, and the collective effort to bridge the gap with Ducati's lead.

Get the MotoGP Crash Podcast here

In this week's episode of the Crash MotoGP Podcast, with Jordan Moreland at the helm, the crew offers a glimpse into what's anticipated for the upcoming test.

Nonetheless, it's important to temper expectations regarding certain aspects.

Ducati has captured attention with minor aerodynamic adjustments during the shakedown, yet Crash Senior Journalist Lewis Duncan anticipates no significant aerodynamic changes for the Italian marque in the near future.

"Gigi Dall'Igna is known for having a trick or two up his sleeve, and my guess is that we might not witness any significant alterations to the fairing until Buriram," he commented.

Historically, Gigi has a tendency to unveil new developments during the last trial, a strategy that catches competing teams off-guard, leaving them with insufficient time to respond or adapt swiftly.

All eyes will be on the Ducati team's pit area to observe the updates they've implemented. It's acknowledged that the new frame they experimented with previously has already shown to be a beneficial development.

"Thus, if you add that into the mix of what they've already got, coupled with some fine-tuning, Ducati will become a formidable opponent to overcome."

It's fascinating to observe Ducati's moves. In my view, the aerodynamic modifications observed are merely an appetizer. I believe that the aerodynamic enhancements hinted at by Dall’Igna are yet to be fully unveiled.

"Ducati has consistently made bold alterations to numerous elements throughout the years, as this might be their final opportunity to implement such changes."

"It's likely that this will be the final significant update in aerodynamics, as it's difficult to envision that they would allocate a substantial development budget to aspects that are expected to be drastically reduced by 2027."

"In what seems to be the final iteration of the aero generation, it appears Gigi has crafted something particularly remarkable."

Will Yamaha Unveil a V4 at Sepang?

The development of Yamaha will be under keen observation this off-season, however, according to Crash MotoGP's Editor Peter McLaren, the V4 won't make an appearance this week.

"McLaren mentions, they've received information about its development and are eager to find out when it will make its debut on the race track."

We had speculated that it might occur during this trial. The unveiling of the Yamaha was scheduled for the first evening of the initial shakedown.

On the first day, only Andrea Dovizioso had the opportunity to test ride the two Yamaha motorcycles, which closely resembled the existing model equipped with an inline-four engine.

"One could clearly observe, in addition to hearing a distinct difference, in the case of a V4. This is why Yamaha has maintained a level of openness regarding it."

"In my recent conversation with Paolo Pavesio, the successor to Lin Jarvis, he candidly confirmed the existence of the V4, although he mentioned that it's not yet prepared for track debut."

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Dani Pedrosa unexpectedly changes gear supplier

KTM test rider's unnoticed move during Shakedown

Dani Pedrosa appeared somewhat altered from what was anticipated during the 2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown test.

Pedrosa stepped out from the KTM workshop on the first day of testing his company's motorcycles, sporting gear from a different brand.

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For the first time since 2006, he donned Dainese gear.

Switching from Alpinestars attire marks a significant change. Not long before, while practicing with Pedro Acosta, Pedrosa was outfitted in Alpinestars equipment.

His subtly altered appearance was among a handful of low-key incidents during the off-air rehearsal.

Pedrosa was actively engaged as a test rider for KTM, working alongside Pol Espargaro.

The rider with the highest achievements in MotoGP history who has yet to secure a championship title continues to be highly regarded by his contemporaries for his skill in bike development and his prowess on the race track.

In the previous year, Pedrosa participated exclusively in the Spanish MotoGP, where his competing racers remarked on the veteran's maintained prowess.

His real contribution to KTM lies in refining their motorcycle. Serving on their testing squad, he hit the racetrack during the initial shakedown, just before the usual MotoGP competitors are back this week for the official MotoGP test.

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EXCLUSIVE – Aki Ajo Discusses KTM's Intense Shakedown: "A Lot of Innovations"

"We're truly pleased with the progress made in the production"

Aki Ajo, the newly appointed team manager for Red Bull KTM's MotoGP squad, mentioned that the Austrian team successfully achieved its off-season development goals, introducing "numerous innovations" during the intense Sepang Shakedown trials.

The future of the RC16's development is uncertain because of the financial instability currently affecting KTM.

However, test riders from the factory, Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro, spent all three days of the Shakedown on the circuit, evaluating several new components (including the rear seat unit and exhaust system) as well as other enhancements not immediately apparent.

"Absolutely," Ajo confirmed in a conversation with Crash.net, responding affirmatively to inquiries about whether winter development proceeded normally notwithstanding KTM's ongoing financial struggles.

"We're truly pleased with the progress made at the plant over the recent months. It seems all the scheduled tasks were accomplished, if not surpassed."

"Our [Shakedown] test was exceptionally chaotic as we encountered numerous novelties and had a plethora of elements to comprehend, verify, and inspect."

"Examinations proceed for an additional three days [at the Official test], with numerous aspects requiring further verification."

"In my opinion, we currently find ourselves in a favorable position."

"There are still numerous days of trials ahead, including sessions in Buriram, yet we've already seen a lot of encouraging outcomes."

Espargaro, who led the pack on the first day, ultimately secured the fifth position in the Shakedown rankings, trailing Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo by half a second. Pedrosa came in ninth, 1.286 seconds behind the leader.

Transponder signals indicated that Espargaro had been utilizing a pair of motorcycles set to be transferred to Brad Binder for the next Official test, while Pedrosa took to the tracks on the motorcycles allocated to the new factory team member, Pedro Acosta.

When asked if he believes KTM is capable of stepping up to compete with the current MotoGP champions, Ducati, Ajo responded:

"We possess a competitive spirit and naturally, our ambition is to emerge victorious. As mentioned earlier, Ducati previously set the standard as the top contender. Naturally, our goal is to narrow the gap and ultimately secure the position as the leading team."

"Initially, it's crucial to acknowledge that we are the latest entrant in the MotoGP, having made our debut in 2017, and over the past two years, we've emerged as the second leading manufacturer."

"Thus, it's essential to view it optimistically, yet naturally, we aspire for greater outcomes."

"Moreover, the rivalry is quite intense. Numerous factories lack what were once referred to as satellite teams. Nowadays, I'd refer to them as secondary factory teams."

Acosta demonstrated Tech3 KTM's prowess as the brand's secondary factory team, securing nine podium finishes and barely missing the fifth spot in the previous year's world championship to Binder.

After completing his inaugural season, Acosta now looks to the future alongside seasoned victors Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini, who are joining Tech3's team. Ajo believes this gives KTM an opportunity to approach strategies differently in 2025.

"Having riders such as Maverick and Enea join Tech3 influences our operations to some extent. It impacts our testing methods and how we optimize their use."

"Having newcomers on the team is always a positive addition. However, their presence might necessitate adjustments in the way we work, particularly in areas like testing. On the other hand, with veteran riders, we might find opportunities to explore and evaluate a broader range of options."

"One of our objectives is to enhance our collaboration with our second factory team, aiming to operate seamlessly as a single entity."

He mentioned, "In essence, we have four riders representing our factory. I'm quite familiar with three of them, and with Enea, we're in the process of developing our connection.

"However, I've collaborated extensively in the past with Brad, Pedro, and Maverick, which is definitely a plus. We're familiar with one another, understand what to anticipate, and hold mutual respect."

Ajo emphasized that advancement is not solely measured by the quantity of new components but also by enhancing their utilization and improving team collaboration.

"He mentioned that their focus spans across various aspects, including the chassis, engine performance, and electronics. However, he personally believes it's not just about the technical details and innovations."

"My approach, along with that of our top tech experts, involves not just knowing our product but also enhancing it wherever possible."

"I'm referring to not just the bicycle and its technical aspects, but also the collaboration among individuals and particularly how we provide everything the cyclists need and assist them in the most effective manner."

The formal testing session in Sepang, which includes all riders for the 2025 season, is scheduled from Wednesday through Friday.

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

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EXCLUSIVE – Aki Ajo Discusses Busy Shakedown, Innovations at KTM

“There’s significant satisfaction with the progress in manufacturing”

Aki Ajo, the new team manager for Red Bull KTM's MotoGP squad, stated that the Austrian team successfully achieved its off-season development goals, introducing "numerous innovations" during a "busy" testing session in Sepang.

The future progress of the RC16 is under scrutiny because of the current economic instability at KTM.

However, factory test pilots Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro spent all three days of the Shakedown on the circuit, testing some notably new components (like the back seat area and the exhaust system) in addition to other elements concealed within the bike's framework.

"Absolutely," Ajo confirmed in a conversation with Crash.net, in response to whether winter development had progressed normally despite KTM's ongoing financial challenges.

"We're genuinely pleased with the progress made in the plant over the recent months. It seems all the scheduled tasks were accomplished, if not exceeded."

"Our Shakedown test was incredibly busy as we were faced with numerous new elements and several aspects to comprehend, verify, and examine."

"The Official test will now extend for an additional three days, during which multiple aspects will undergo further verification."

"In my view, we're currently in a favorable situation."

"There are still numerous days of trials ahead, including sessions in Buriram, yet we've already seen a lot of encouraging outcomes."

Espargaro, who led the pack on the first day, ended up in fifth place on the Shakedown leaderboard, trailing Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo by half a second. Pedrosa came in ninth, lagging 1.286 seconds behind the leader.

Transponder data indicated that Espargaro was riding a pair of motorcycles set to be passed on to Brad Binder for the next official trial, while Pedrosa took the helm of the motorcycles assigned to the new team member, Pedro Acosta.

Asked about KTM's prospects of competing against the current MotoGP title-holder Ducati, Ajo responded:

"We possess a competitive nature and naturally, our aspiration is to come out on top. As you've mentioned, Ducati previously set the standard and was the top contender. Naturally, our aim is to narrow that gap and ultimately reach the pinnacle as the foremost team."

"Firstly, it's crucial to acknowledge that we are the most recent addition to the MotoGP lineup, having joined in 2017. Over the past two years, we've secured our position as the runner-up manufacturer."

"Thus, we should view it optimistically, though naturally, we aspire for greater outcomes."

"Additionally, the rivalry is quite intense. Numerous factories no longer maintain what were once referred to as satellite teams. Nowadays, I'd refer to them as secondary factory teams."

Acosta demonstrated the capability of KTM's secondary team, Tech3, by securing nine podium finishes and missing the fifth position in the previous season's world championship to Binder by a slim margin.

Following Acosta's debut season, and with seasoned victors Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini joining the Tech3 team, Ajo believes KTM has the opportunity to adopt a somewhat novel approach in 2025.

"When we get the opportunity to include racers such as Maverick and Enea in our team [Tech3], it influences our approach slightly. It affects our testing methods and how we maximize their use."

"Having newcomers in the team is always a positive aspect. However, the approach and techniques we employ might need to be adjusted, like in testing. With veteran riders, we might have the opportunity to explore [more] options and make comparisons."

"One of our goals is to strengthen our bond, aiming to be as unified as possible with our second factory team. In our efforts, we aspire to operate seamlessly as a single entity."

He stated: "Essentially, we're working with four factory riders. I'm quite familiar with three of them already, and we're currently developing our connection with Enea.

"However, my previous collaborations with Brad, Pedro, and Maverick have been extensive, which naturally is advantageous. We're familiar with one another, understand our mutual expectations, and have already established a foundation of respect."

Ajo emphasized that advancement isn't solely measured by the quantity of new components but also by enhancing their utilization and improving the team's operational methods.

"He mentioned, "Our focus spans across multiple domains, including the chassis, engine efficiency, and electronics. However, for me, it's not just about the technological aspects and innovations.

"My approach, which I believe is shared by our top tech experts, involves not just comprehending our product but also enhancing it."

"I'm referring not just to the motorcycle and its specifications, but also to the collaboration among individuals and, importantly, how we provide everything necessary for the riders and assist them in the most effective manner."

The formal testing session at Sepang, involving all riders slated for the 2025 season, is scheduled from Wednesday through Friday.

Peter has spent two decades in the racing world, witnessing Valentino Rossi's rise and retirement. He's leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's health concerns.

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Jack Miller is set to make an unexpected change to his MotoGP gear lineup for the 2025 season. The Pramac team rider will be showcasing gear from two different

Pramac Yamaha's MotoGP competitor, Jack Miller, is set to participate in the 2025 season while sporting gear from a variety of different brands.

In the past, Miller was sponsored by Alpinestars for his gloves, boots, leathers, and helmet.

For his transition to Pramac Yamaha, he will don Dainese gear, including leathers, gloves, and boots, while continuing to use his Alpinestars helmet.

Pramac has entered into a new agreement with Dainese, which will provide the team with its official apparel. The partnership is set to continue until the conclusion of 2027.

Check out this Instagram post from Crash MotoGP, shared by their account @crashmotogp_.

Pramac team leader Gino Borsoi expressed great enthusiasm about beginning a new phase with Dainese, a brand well-known for its commitment to safety, innovation, and excellence in the motorsport industry.

This partnership signifies the joining of a legendary MotoGP brand with a team that has already made its mark in MotoGP history. Together, this union will enable both parties to elevate their reputation and standards.

As we face the challenge of competing against Yamaha in MotoGP and Moto2, having Dainese's support and protection will be essential for our performance on the track.

"This collaboration not only bolsters our team's dedication to excellence but also embodies our mutual values of quality and commitment to the sport."

With the risk of not having a spot on the grid for the 2025 season, Miller appeared to have little choice regarding equipment sponsorship when the chance to return to Pramac in 2025 arose.

Dani Pedrosa, a test rider for KTM, was recently seen wearing Dainese gear at the Sepang shakedown. He joins other notable figures changing to the Dainese brand for 2025.

In his debut MotoGP season back in 2006, Pedrosa raced for the Honda factory team and was last seen representing Dainese.

All riders from Pramac’s MotoGP and Moto2 teams will be outfitted in Dainese racing suits.

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Newcomer Enea Bastianini identifies major issue with KTM

Enea Bastianini highlights a flaw in KTM's characteristics

Enea Bastianini is aware of the main issue with his KTM that he aims to address in Sepang.

This season, Bastianini and his teammate, Maverick Vinales, are part of the revamped Tech3 KTM squad. They will be riding bikes with factory specifications and are poised to benefit from backing provided by the factory.

This week, at the Sepang preseason test, they will be back on their bikes for the first time since November in Barcelona, keen to get accustomed to their new motorcycle.

Former Ducati racer Bastianini is already aware of the issues with the KTM.

He mentioned that the KTM performs exceptionally well when entering corners.

"However, after a while, as the tires wear out, the rear begins to slide frequently. Once it starts, it doesn't recover."

"This is an issue, and we need to find a solution."

Enea Bastianini from KTM discussed the testing at Sepang, stating, "I have outlined a strategy for the three days. However, I have not yet communicated with test riders Dani Pedrosa or Pol Espargaro."

"If I encounter Dani, we should likely have a conversation."

"The bicycle I have now is akin to the one I evaluated during the test in Barcelona."

"I need to begin by building confidence and getting accustomed to the KTM. After that, on the following day, I can explore different approaches."

"In the beginning, Maverick and I will handle separate tasks."

Bastianini emphasized the importance of managing a rider's physical health during a three-day testing period, highlighting that the desire to work nonstop isn't always feasible.

He emphasized the significance of recognizing the energy we possess.

"Occasionally, you might complete numerous circuits on the first day, only to find yourself completely exhausted on the following day."

"While you may be in good shape, it may not be sufficient for MotoGP, as it requires a different level of fitness than other types of motorcycle racing."

He mentioned, "It's crucial to perform excellently with the same motorcycle on the first day. On the following day, KTM likely aims to test out different options."

"I am curious to observe these solutions."

Statements shared by Peter McLaren, the Editor at Crash MotoGP

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Johann Zarco calls for "respect" towards Honda's progress, asserting "they are clearly intelligent"

LCR Honda racer praises the company's advancements during the off-season.

Johann Zarco believes that Honda MotoGP racers should "honor" the company's winter upgrades, despite the fact that Romano Albesiano is stepping in as the new technical director.

Honda made a significant change to their team by bringing in Albesiano from Aprilia to lead their technical division. This move comes after the Japanese company ended up at the bottom of the constructors' rankings in 2024.

Albesiano started his position in January, which means he hasn't significantly impacted Honda's development efforts conducted during the winter leading up to the pre-season test in Sepang this week.

LCR's Zarco expresses confidence that Albesiano has been able to offer Honda's engineering team some insights regarding the bike. However, he emphasizes that the engineers are clearly intelligent and their efforts should not be underestimated.

"It's difficult to determine," he responded when questioned about whether Albesiano has had an impact on the development of the bike.

"I'm confident that he could have already contributed ideas, but given that he began his role in January, Honda had already laid the groundwork."

"They couldn't delay until Romano's concepts emerged in early January and then decide, 'Alright, we'll organize all preparations by the end of January.'"

"We need to honor that and proceed with it, as the concepts Honda aims to evaluate are definitely not foolish."

The individual who might be privy to certain confidential information is Gigi Dall'Igna, however, he is not the person who entered into an agreement with Honda.

"It seems that while Albesiano might offer suggestions, we need to stick to the plans we developed from November until now."

Johann Zarco shares insights into Honda's strategy in Sepang. Honda has already taken to the Sepang circuit for the initial testing phase. Zarco observed that the developments closely resembled those he experienced during tests late in the previous year.

He observed that, based on his current perspective, the bike appears to be largely the same, although they are experimenting with various different approaches.

"Tomorrow, we need to decide on the chassis. That's going to be our initial goal."

"They are working on some engine projects, although the top option might not be available immediately in Malaysia. Additionally, we will focus on aerodynamic components on the final day."

"Having gained experience, I no longer anticipate anything that instantly elevates performance or suggests that podium finishes are immediately achievable. I understand the effort involved and recognize the challenges in bringing everything together."

"The Japanese are implementing adjustments, yet often the sentiment remains unchanged, making it challenging to achieve significant progress."

"However, now that Romano is involved, I believe progress will be made."

He is really impressed with Honda's potential, and I appreciate this because I share the same sentiment now as I did a year ago.

"It's comforting to know that he shares the same feelings as I do."

Statements shared by Peter McLaren, Editor at Crash MotoGP

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Fabio di Giannantonio has stated that his shoulder is "as good as new" and he has a "clear mind" regarding the GP25. He expressed his desire to ride the GP25 and provide his honest feedback.

Fabio di Giannantonio is set to ride in his first MotoGP session since last competing at the Thai Grand Prix in October. He will be back on the track tomorrow as the Official Sepang Test begins.

The Pertamina VR46 racer withdrew from the 2024 season to have significant shoulder surgery, following a dislocation that occurred several months ago in Austria.

This resulted in him missing both the last two rounds of the world championship and the post-race testing in Barcelona, where the initial model of the factory-spec GP25, which he will compete with this season, was unveiled to the public.

"The winter season has been lengthy," di Giannantonio remarked in an interview with Crash.net at Sepang on Tuesday.

"I had to concentrate intensely on regaining movement in my shoulder. Following that, I worked on restoring strength to all the muscles surrounding it. It was quite an extensive journey. However, at this point, I'm feeling great, at about 80-90%."

"I haven't fully regained my strength yet since I only began physical training at the beginning of January, leaving me with only a few weeks to prepare for this test."

"I'm feeling great. We spent three days riding the Panigale in Mandalika, and I had a fantastic time. My shoulder didn't cause me any pain at all."

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

When questioned about what he anticipates being the most challenging aspect, Diggia responded: "Without a doubt, it's the [deficiency in physical] preparation, particularly when it comes to braking."

"I need to focus on the straight sections and the correct turns, as those were the primary challenges last year."

"I couldn't position myself as low inside the fairing on right turns as I could on left turns."

During a press briefing at the track, the 26-year-old remarked that his left shoulder now feels "brand new, as if nothing ever occurred." He praised the Professor, describing him as one of the world's top surgeons for this type of operation and expressing that he believes the Professor performed excellently.

Reflecting on the experience of racing the GP bike in the final seven events of last season, it was undoubtedly challenging. However, the situation has changed significantly now. I am optimistic that the performance on the track will also improve starting tomorrow.

The GP25? "I aim to maintain an open mindset," says di Giannantonio, who will be the sole competitor besides the Ducati Lenovo pair, Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, to have the highly sought-after GP25 at his disposal.

"We have numerous options to explore!" smiled the Italian rider, who has previously raced on MotoGP bikes that were already a year old and had reached the end of their development cycle.

"This is my first experience testing such a large number of components, and it's incredibly exciting. It's really great to be involved in this."

"Certainly, each person will follow their individual schedule, but the three of us will collaborate on the bike's development."

Giannantonio observed from the sidelines as Bagnaia and Marquez experienced their initial ride on the GP25 in Barcelona.

However, he remains receptive as he approaches Wednesday's premiere.

"The Qatar 2023 race winner mentioned that both the team and Ducati chose not to share numerous details with him to avoid swaying his perspective, which he believes was a wise decision."

"I definitely caught some things from you journalists, from interviews and a few remarks. However, personally, I preferred not to know too much because I wanted to keep my mind clear."

"I would like to cycle and express my deepest emotions."

"It appears that the start has been quite promising. Although the lap times were decent, the bike used in Barcelona wasn't the complete version of the 2025 model. This is in part because the final design for the 2025 model hasn't been finalized yet, as we are still conducting tests for this year."

"I believe that moving forward, we will have the initial '25 prototype for the season."

The Sepang test is scheduled to occur from Wednesday through Friday.

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For two decades, Peter has been involved in the racing scene, witnessing the career of Valentino Rossi from start to finish. He is currently deeply engaged with the developments surrounding Suzuki's departure and the injury troubles faced by Marc Marquez.

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Maverick Vinales sets benchmarks for a "successful" MotoGP test in Sepang

Vinales to spend three days in Malaysia adjusting to KTM

Maverick Vinales states that a "successful" pre-season MotoGP test in Sepang with KTM will help him to "grasp the bike's limitations," focusing more on this aspect than on performance outcomes.

The racer, who has secured 10 grand prix victories, has committed to joining KTM and will compete with the Tech3 satellite team in 2025, after spending three and a half years with Aprilia's factory team.

After having a successful initial trial on the RC16 last November in Barcelona, Vinales mentions that he does not have any specific performance objectives for his visit to Sepang this week.

“To tell the truth, I’ll be occupied with my own matters,” he mentioned.

"Adjusting to a different bicycle requires significant effort."

"It's always fascinating, so I'm eager to fully enjoy the adaptation process. I'm curious to experience how it feels on a different track like Sepang."

"In my view, a test is considered successful if I can grasp the bike's limitations, comprehend the dynamics during a time attack, observe the behavior in race mode, and understand the experience of trailing another rider."

Addressing each of these issues will be crucial for achieving a successful test outcome.

"Clearly, I'm not familiar enough with the bike to determine whether it's an improvement or not."

"You can sense it and you can see it. However, my goal is to find answers to all the questions swirling in my head."

In 2025, Maverick Vinales has aspirations for success in MotoGP while riding for a satellite team. This marks his initial season with a satellite outfit, although the team maintains a strong connection with the factory, as evidenced by all four KTM bikes featuring a consistent livery that year.

After Pramac secured the championship last year with Jorge Martin, Vinales views the transition to a satellite team as not being a disadvantage.

He mentioned that he believes the atmosphere is pleasant.

"Everyone is working together, and I believe this is for a single purpose, which is crucial."

"In the previous year, a secondary team determined the outcome of the championship, so at present, I don't believe it's a matter of concern."

"In past years, perhaps, during a different time. However, currently, all the bikes are identical and completely equal."

The team atmosphere is optimistic and upbeat, which suggests that things are likely to go very well.

"The key priority at the moment is to maintain simplicity and operate effectively."

"In the end, the factory is providing support. Technically, it appears that way, but once I'm on the inside, it seems different."

Statements given by Peter McLaren, Editor of Crash MotoGP

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