Two MotoGP riders, each dealing with three fractures, are planning a swift return to the track. Details on their recovery timelines have been disclosed.

Fabio di Giannantonio and Raul Fernandez remain optimistic about making speedy recoveries following their recent injuries.

During the official MotoGP test at Sepang, VR46's Di Giannantonio and Trackhouse's Fernandez sustained bone fractures.

The two riders were unable to continue participating in the test and needed surgical procedures to address their injuries.

Di Giannantonio sustained a collarbone fracture, whereas Fernandez experienced a break in a metacarpal bone in his left hand and also a fractured toe.

However, they could each return to cycling sooner than anticipated.

VR46’s Uccio Salucci mentioned to Sky Italy that he believes Fabio is scheduled for surgery during the weekend.

"I anticipate meeting him again in Buriram, not for the upcoming test next week, but for the actual race."

Check out this Instagram post from Raúl Fernández (@raulfernandez_25). Raúl Fernández (@raulfernandez_25) shared this post.

Fernandez has already undergone surgery.

"To begin with, I want to express my gratitude to Xavier Mir for consistently providing me with exceptional care," Fernandez shared in a post.

"I need to take some time to heal now and aim to head to Thailand. I appreciate all your supportive messages!"

The Thailand MotoGP, marking the start of the season, is scheduled from February 28 to March

This implies that Di Giannantonio and Fernandez have a three-week period for recuperation.

However, in that period, they will be absent from the Buriram preseason test, which means they will start the inaugural race, if they can participate, facing a significant disadvantage against their competitors.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

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

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, where he reported on a variety of sports, including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

Discover More

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

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

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Informed with Crash MotoGP

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

Crash Dot Net

Aprilia responds sharply to Michelin amid escalating controversy over Jorge Martin's accident

Massimo Rivola expressed harsh criticism towards Piero Taramasso

Jorge Martin has had an operation for the damage he incurred during the Sepang trial – however, the reasons behind his accident are still being debated.

The MotoGP titleholder experienced a severe crash on Wednesday, slamming face-first into the pavement and sustaining injuries to their hand and foot.

Following his operation, Aprilia has strongly refuted Michelin's assertion regarding the cause of the mishap.

Jorge Martin Successfully Operates on Right Hand

Martin's right hand operation was successfully completed on Friday.

Dr. Xavier Mir performed surgery on him in Barcelona.

He sustained a non-penetrating fracture to the head of the fifth metacarpal in his right hand and non-penetrating fractures to the third, fourth, and fifth metatarsals in his left foot.

He stayed in a Malaysian hospital for a night before going back to Spain to undergo surgery.

Martin's foot injury won't necessitate surgical intervention, with his recuperation period set to be evaluated over the next few days.

Dr. Mir stated, "Jorge Martín, the motorcycle racer, received surgical treatment for a misaligned break in the head of his right fifth metacarpal bone. The procedure involved realigning the bone and securing it with a screw placed inside the bone."

"Based on the patient's current health condition, the process of regaining functionality is expected to begin soon."

Aprilia boss Massimo Rivola expressed his happiness that Jorge's surgery was successful and emphasized the importance of his quick recovery, stating that his well-being is the most important concern.

Aprilia vs. Michelin dispute

Following Martin's accident, Aprilia leader Rivola promptly claimed that neither the motorcycle nor the rider was at fault.

His remark subtly suggested that the fault lay with his Michelin tire.

On Friday morning, Piero Taramasso, the two-wheel manager for Michelin Motorsport, shared his perspective on what led to the accident.

Initially, Massimo Rivola indicated that the temperature of the tyres was satisfactory, […] however, he was referring to the surface temperature of the tyres, which can fluctuate greatly based on factors like sliding and the bike's rotation, explained Taramasso.

"The backside temperature, or the [value] that helps us determine whether the tyre is functioning properly, refers to the temperature of the innermost layer. This is typically the information obtained from the sensor on the McLaren."

Taramasso stated, "It's evident that when Jorge exited the pit for his final attempt prior to the accident, the temperature of the tyre was lower by 15 degrees.

"Thus, a 15-degree change is fairly significant."

However, Rivola from Aprilia has refuted that assertion.

"Aprilia has stated that their information does not corroborate Piero Taramasso's claims about the crash."

"I am of the opinion that the well-being of the riders must come first, and I've recommended that he arranges a discussion with every team to address what is undeniably a dire issue, as shown by the high frequency of injuries."

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

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

For further details, consult our Privacy Policy.

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

Discover Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive up-to-the-minute MotoGP updates, exclusive content, conversations, and special offers straight from the track to your inbox.

For additional details, refer to our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Copying or reproducing any part or all of the text, photos, or images is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Accident.Net

Ducati asserts a "lunch meeting" as Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia demonstrate solidarity. "I observe a wonderful bond."

According to Ducati, Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia started building their relationship by spending time with each other and their partners.

This season, the Ducati garage is expected to be the center of attention in the MotoGP paddock, as it will house what many consider to be the top contenders for the championship.

Marquez and Bagnaia, now teammates, are also obvious competitors vying for the championship, which is currently held by Jorge Martin. Martin, on the other hand, needs to adapt to his new Aprilia.

Ducati asserts that the highly talked-about partnership between their official riders has begun seamlessly.

"We are creating a new chapter in the history of our sport," said sporting director Mauro Grassilli to GPOne, ahead of the team’s highly anticipated rider lineup at the Sepang test.

"We are collaborating effectively, and I notice a great bond between the two cyclists."

The group, along with their wives and girlfriends, are also sharing a meal together.

"We are taking the necessary actions, and ultimately, the results on the track will speak for themselves. We'll have to wait and see the outcome."

"In my experience, I've consistently observed strong relationships among riders."

"When I began during the era of Loris Capirossi and Troy Bayliss, the connection between racers was crucial. I anticipated this because both Marquez and Bagnaia are smart, capable, and professional individuals."

During the Sepang test, Ducati's official riders collaborated to refine the setup they plan to use for this season, alongside VR46's Fabio di Giannantonio.

As of now, their partnership is advantageous for both parties. Ducati is confident that it will continue to be so.

"Establishing a positive and stimulating atmosphere is crucial and thrilling, but it is not the most challenging task."

"They are experts who are skilled at performing their duties."

"Pecco displays a high level of professionalism. After returning from his honeymoon, he appeared very relaxed, composed, and self-assured."

"I've only been acquainted with Marc for a brief period. Our introduction took place last year in the hospitality sector. I'm gradually learning more about him. Up to now, I find all aspects of his character appealing, including how he interacts with Pecco, our team, sponsors, and the press."

Sign up for 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

For ten years, James worked as a sports journalist at Sky Sports, reporting on a wide range of events including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the freshest updates, special content, interviews, and deals 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

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

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

Crash.Net is a website dedicated

New Aprilia Technical Chief Highlights Unexpected Insight from Marco Bezzecchi

Fabiano Sterlacchini Shares Positive Revelation at Sepang

Fabiano Sterlacchini experienced a pleasant surprise upon his initial encounter with Marco Bezzecchi, an event that is expected to benefit Aprilia.

Since last season ended, both the factory rider and the technical director have become part of the Aprilia team.

The team dedicated the three-day Sepang testing period to collaboratively working on their 2025 motorcycle.

"Sterlacchini praised Bezzecchi, describing him as highly skilled."

Looking from an outsider's perspective, I thought Marco was incredibly talented, but lacked technical skills.

"It's been a pleasant surprise!"

"Configuring the bike with various hardware components is quite a fascinating task because it allows for a very tranquil working environment."

"We are configuring the bicycle in a consistent manner to ensure that we can evaluate a single component and gather reliable statistical data."

Aprilia's technical director discusses advancements

The tasks for Aprilia and Sterlacchini became more challenging after Jorge Martin and Raul Fernandez sustained injuries within the first few laps of the Sepang test, leaving the team without the input of these two riders.

As a result, they had to modify their testing strategies.

"This is a challenge and a tough aspect of our work," remarked Sterlacchini.

"We are making adjustments daily, depending on the outcomes of the test items."

"We have designated spaces for each item and we will adhere to that arrangement."

Bezzecchi has remarked on the strength of the Aprilia engine but raised concerns about how effectively their motorcycle can harness that power.

"The progression and transformation of the bicycle? We need to examine each aspect of the bicycle," stated Sterlacchini.

"This is a critical aspect, as it enables the rider to test the bike's full potential and assess the rear tire's capabilities."

"The engine supplies the power according to what the electronics, which function like a black box, demand."

Sterlacchini is committed to resolving Aprilia's issue of slow starts.

"Absolutely," he stated. "Our company is concentrating on assigning various responsibilities and tasks to different departments."

"The beginning of the race is crucial. In the latest MotoGP era, featuring advancements in aerodynamics and engine power, starting from the rear of the grid makes for a challenging race."

"Beginning at the forefront is essential for enhancing performance."

Sterlacchini's new position benefits from his background at both Ducati and KTM.

He understands that the critical challenge is to close the gap with the leading Ducatis and ultimately surpass them.

"It's always challenging. Certainly, our position is very favorable," he stated.

"The company excels in its focus on human values."

"The knowledge and expertise in racing have been developed over many years."

"There are tasks that need to be completed. From what I've seen, there's room for enhancement."

"We possess a significant amount of resources from the company, along with components like electronics that were assembled locally."

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

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

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

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

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

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

Crash.Net is a website that

Aprilia responds strongly to Michelin amid escalating debate over Jorge Martin’s crash

Massimo Rivola sharply criticizes Piero Taramasso

Jorge Martin has had an operation to address the injury he got during the Sepang test. However, questions linger about the reasons behind his crash.

On Wednesday, the MotoGP titleholder experienced a severe crash, hitting the asphalt face-first, which resulted in injuries to his hand and foot.

Following his operation, Aprilia has strongly refuted Michelin's assertion regarding the cause of the incident.

Jorge Martin has a successful operation Jorge Martin had a successful procedure on his right hand on Friday.

The surgery was performed by Dr. Xavier Mir in Barcelona.

He sustained a closed fracture to the head of the fifth metacarpal bone in his right hand and closed fractures to the third, fourth, and fifth metatarsal bones in his left foot.

He was hospitalized for a night in Malaysia before going back to Spain to undergo surgery.

Martin's foot injury does not need an operation, and doctors will evaluate his recovery timeline in the next few days.

Dr. Mir stated: "Jorge Martín, the rider, has had an operation to address a displaced fracture in the head of his right fifth metacarpal. The procedure involved reduction and percutaneous fixation with the use of an intramedullary screw."

"The recovery of functions will begin shortly, depending on the patient's clinical condition."

Massimo Rivola, the CEO of Aprilia, expressed his relief that Jorge's surgery was successful and emphasized that a quick recovery is now the main focus, with Jorge's well-being being the top priority.

Dispute between Aprilia and Michelin

Following Martin's crash, Aprilia's chief, Rivola, quickly asserted that the incident wasn't due to any issues with the motorcycle or mistakes made by the rider.

The remark suggested that his Michelin tire might have been at fault.

On Friday morning, Piero Taramasso, who is in charge of two-wheel operations at Michelin Motorsport, shared his perspective on what he thinks led to the accident.

Initially, Massimo Rivola mentioned that the tire temperature was acceptable. However, according to Taramasso, he was referring to the surface temperature of the tire, which can fluctuate significantly due to factors like sliding and the bike's spinning.

"The temperature at the back, which is the key metric we use to determine whether the tire is functioning properly, is measured from the inner layer. This data, for example, is provided by the McLaren sensor."

Taramasso stated, "The final takeaway is straightforward: when Jorge departed the pit for his last attempt prior to the accident, the tire's temperature was 15 degrees lower."

"Therefore, 15 degrees is a significant amount."

However, Rivola from Aprilia has rejected that assertion.

In response to the crash, Aprilia clarified that their data does not support Piero Taramasso's claims.

"I think ensuring the safety of the riders is paramount, and I've already advised him to organize a meeting with all the teams to address what is obviously a serious issue, highlighted by the rising number of injuries."

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

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

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, where he reported on a range of sports including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1.

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

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

To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.

Breaking Updates

Additional Reports

Track Crash F1

Track Crash MotoGP

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

Crash.Net

—

Rephr

Aprilia responds to Michelin amid escalating conflict over Jorge Martin's crash

Massimo Rivola issued a stern statement directed at Piero Taramasso

Jorge Martin has had an operation to address the injury he suffered during the Sepang test, but questions remain about the reasons behind his accident.

The MotoGP titleholder suffered a severe fall on Wednesday, landing face-first on the pavement, which resulted in injuries to his hand and foot.

Following the operation, Aprilia has strongly refuted Michelin's assertion regarding the cause of the incident.

Jorge Martin has a successful operation

On Friday, Martin had a successful procedure on his right hand.

The surgery was performed on him by Dr. Xavier Mir in Barcelona.

He sustained a fracture in the head of the fifth metacarpal bone in his right hand and also suffered fractures in the third, fourth, and fifth metatarsal bones in his left foot, all of which were closed fractures.

He stayed overnight in a Malaysian hospital and then traveled back to Spain to undergo an operation.

Martin's foot injury does not need an operation, and the evaluation of how long his recovery will take is expected in the next few days.

According to Dr. Mir, Jorge Martín, the rider, had an operation to address a displaced fracture in the head of his right fifth metacarpal. The procedure involved reducing the fracture and securing it with a percutaneous fixation using an intramedullary screw.

"The restoration of function is expected to commence soon, based on the patient's clinical condition."

Aprilia's Chief Executive Officer, Massimo Rivola, expressed his relief that Jorge's surgery was successful and emphasized that the main focus now is on his quick recovery, with his well-being being the top concern.

Dispute between Aprilia and Michelin

Following Martin's accident, Aprilia leader Rivola promptly claimed that the mishap was not due to any fault in the motorcycle or any mistake by the rider.

The remark suggested that the responsibility lay with his Michelin tire.

On Friday morning, Piero Taramasso, who manages the two-wheel segment at Michelin Motorsport, shared his thoughts on what he believes led to the crash.

Initially, Massimo Rivola mentioned that the tire temperature was acceptable. However, he was referring to the surface temperature of the tire, which can change significantly based on factors like sliding and the bike's spin, Taramasso explained.

"The temperature at the back, specifically the value that helps us determine whether the tire is functioning properly, is the temperature of the inner layer. For example, this information is provided by the McLaren sensor."

Taramasso stated, "The findings are evident: before Jorge's accident, when he exited the pit for his final stint, the tire was 15 degrees cooler."

"Therefore, 15 degrees is a significant amount."

However, Aprilia's Rivola has rejected that assertion.

Aprilia stated that concerning the accident, their data does not support the claims made by Piero Taramasso.

"I think the safety of the riders must come first, and I have proposed that he arrange a meeting with all the teams to address this serious issue in a productive way, given the high number of injuries."

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

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

For further details, please review our Privacy Policy.

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

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

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

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Current Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

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

Crash.Net is a website dedicated

Summary of Day 2 at the 2025 Sepang MotoGP Official Testing

Chronicle of the events from Thursday's continuation of the 2025 Sepang MotoGP official testing.

The second session of the official Sepang MotoGP testing kicked off at 10am on Thursday, following a challenging first day that resulted in injuries to Jorge Martin, Fabio di Giannantonio, and Raul Fernandez.

On the first day, Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo led the pack, with Ducati's recent recruit, Marc Marquez, trailing closely behind.

There are only five designated days for official pre-season trials, split between three days in Sepang and two in Buriram, leading up to the inaugural race of the 2025 MotoGP season in Thailand on February 28.

Trials at Sepang are scheduled from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., succeeded by sessions for practice launches…

Lap times at 6pm – Sepang MotoGP Official Test, Second Day

The moment has arrived for the beginning of practice, a highly anticipated time for spectators, team personnel, and journalists, all of whom gather at the start/finish line.

Here's to wishing that what happened to di Giannantonio last night doesn't happen again. The VR46 team member suffered a fall due to an unintended wheelie, resulting in a broken collarbone during a practice start on the track.

As the clock hits 6pm and the second day of the Official Sepang test wraps up, several riders are in the midst of setting their personal best times. However, none are close to overtaking the long-standing frontrunner, Franco Morbidelli.

The rider from VR46 concluded the session with a lead of 0.114 seconds over Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo.

Alex Marquez, Fermin Aldeguer, Francesco Bagnaia, Joan Mir, Pedro Acosta, Miguel Oliveira, Marco Bezzecchi, and Jack Miller round out the top ten.

Approaching the final 10 minutes, Fabio Quartararo, who is just behind Morbidelli in second place, is achieving record-breaking sector times. The leader from the Shakedown is aiming to maintain his leading position for another consecutive day…

…however, as the second half of the lap progresses, he loses time and stays 0.114 seconds adrift of Morbidelli.

Acosta advances in his time trial, ascending to 6th place. His team colleague, Brad Binder, has moved up to 9th position.

With 25 minutes remaining, Pedro Acosta moves up into the top ten, securing the eighth position.

Bagnaia, who skipped a time attack the previous day, is achieving personal records in sectors and has now moved up to 5th, trailing behind Morbidelli, Quartararo, and Alex Marquez.

Lap times as of 5pm – Official Sepang MotoGP Testing, Second Day

With just over an hour left in the testing session, the leading ten positions are currently held by: Morbidelli, Quartararo, A. Marquez, Aldeguer, Oliveira, Bagnaia, Zarco, Miller, Rins, and Mir.

Francesco Bagnaia has climbed to the 6th position. His team member, Marc Marquez, remains in 11th place.

The mercury is falling, and we're beginning to see personal records being broken on the timing displays. There's an hour and fifteen minutes left of the second day's testing session.

Lap times at 4pm – Sepang MotoGP Test Official Results, Second Day

The showers have cleared and bicycles have returned to the path.

The illuminated rain signals flicker along the primary straightaway, prompting every racer on the circuit to come in.

It

As we approach 4pm, it appears the temperature is beginning to drop, prompting more riders to hit the track. With the cooler conditions, we can expect faster lap times leading up to the track's closure at 6pm.

Alex Marquez ends his quiet period, returning to the circuit with Gresini. He's presently in third place, trailing the test front-runner Franco Morbidelli by a mere 0.130 seconds, who is also riding a Ducati GP24.

Lap times as of 3pm – Day 2 Official MotoGP Testing in Sepang

Several ominous clouds are beginning to form above the final stretch, and considering today's warmth, it wouldn't be shocking if the typical afternoon storm of Sepang decides to show up eventually.

As of 2:25 PM local time, the track remains empty with no riders in sight.

Maximum velocities achieved today:

Lap results at 2pm – Official Sepang MotoGP Trials, Second Day

At 2pm in the blistering heat of Sepang, the leading trio remains Morbidelli, Quartararo, and Alex Marquez.

At present, just three motorcycles are navigating the circuit, specifically the Ducati GP25s ridden by Marc Marquez (in 9th place), his Ducati colleague Francesco Bagnaia (positioned 13th), and test pilot Michele Pirro (ranked 20th), likely collecting information under simulated race conditions.

Leading six: Franco Morbidelli, Fabio Quartararo, Alex Marquez, Fermin Aldeguer, Miguel Oliveira, Johann Zarco.

Lap times at 12pm – Sepang MotoGP Official Testing, Second Day

Just past noon and, with the rising temperatures, it's going to be more challenging to achieve faster lap times.

Franco Morbidelli remains in the lead, followed by Fabio Quartararo, Alex Marquez, and Fermin Aldeguer. Meanwhile, Miguel Oliveira has climbed to fifth place riding for Pramac Yamaha, with Johann Zarco securing the sixth spot for LCR Honda.

Stay Updated on MotoGP

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive up-to-date MotoGP coverage, exclusive insights, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the track 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

Copying or replicating the content, images, or illustrations in full or in part is strictly prohibited.

Unfortunately, I can't proceed

2025 Official Sepang MotoGP Test – Day 2 Coverage

Summary of the second day’s events at the 2025 Official Sepang MotoGP testing.

Following a grueling first day that resulted in injuries to Jorge Martin, Fabio di Giannantonio, and Raul Fernandez, the Official Sepang testing resumed for its second day at 10am on Thursday.

On the first day, Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo led the shakedown, clocking the fastest time ahead of Ducati's new recruit, Marc Marquez.

A mere five days have been allocated for formal pre-season trials, with three days scheduled at Sepang followed by two at Buriram, leading up to the kickoff of the 2025 MotoGP season in Thailand on February 28.

Trials at Sepang are scheduled from 10 in the morning until 6 in the evening, succeeded by practice launches…

Lap times at 6pm – Sepang MotoGP Official Test, Second Day

The time for practice to begin has arrived, a highlight of the day eagerly anticipated by fans, team personnel, and journalists, all of whom gather at the start/finish line.

Here's to wishing that we don't see a recurrence of di Giannantonio's regrettable wheelie mishap from the previous evening, where the VR46 team member took a fall and fractured his collarbone during a practice start lap around the circuit.

As the clock hits 6pm, marking the close of the second day at the Sepang Official test, several riders continue to clock their personal best times. However, none have come close to challenging the long-standing frontrunner, Franco Morbidelli.

The rider from VR46 ended the day with a 0.114-second lead over Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo.

Alex Marquez, Fermin Aldeguer, Francesco Bagnaia, Joan Mir, Pedro Acosta, Miguel Oliveira, Marco Bezzecchi, and Jack Miller round out the leading ten.

With just 10 minutes remaining, Fabio Quartararo, who is right behind Morbidelli in second place, is achieving record-breaking sector times. The leader of the Shakedown is aiming to maintain his leading position for the second consecutive day…

…however, as the lap progresses into its latter stages, he finds himself losing time and ends up 0.114 seconds adrift of Morbidelli.

Acosta advances his time trial, moving up to 6th place, while his team-mate Brad Binder makes progress to 9th.

With 25 minutes remaining, Pedro Acosta climbs into the top ten, securing the eighth position.

Bagnaia, who opted out of a time trial yesterday, is now recording his fastest sector times and has moved up to 5th place, trailing behind Morbidelli, Quartararo, and Alex Marquez.

Lap times at 5pm – Authorized Sepang MotoGP Trials, Second Day

With slightly more than an hour left in the testing session, the leading ten riders are as follows: Morbidelli leads, followed by Quartararo, A. Marquez, Aldeguer, Oliveira, Bagnaia, Zarco, Miller, Rins, and Mir in that order.

Francesco Bagnaia has advanced to 6th place. Meanwhile, his team member Marc Marquez remains in 11th position.

The mercury is falling, and the timing displays are beginning to light up with orange indicators (signifying personal records). There's 1 hour and 15 minutes left of the second day's test session.

Lap times at 4pm – Sepang MotoGP Official Test, Second Day

The showers have moved on, and bicycles are once again hitting the road.

The main straight is illuminated by blinking rain lights, prompting all the riders on the track to come in.

It

Approaching 4pm, it appears the temperature is beginning to drop, prompting more cyclists to hit the track. With the track set to close at 6pm, we can expect to see better lap times as conditions improve.

Alex Marquez ends his quiet period, returning to the circuit with Gresini. Presently, Marquez holds the third position, trailing the top tester Franco Morbidelli by merely 0.130 seconds, who is also riding a Ducati GP24.

Lap times as of 3pm – Sepang MotoGP Official Testing, Second Day

Some ominous clouds are beginning to form above the final stretch, and considering today's warm temperatures, it wouldn't be shocking if the typical Sepang late-day storm decides to show up eventually.

As of 2:25pm local time, the track remains empty with no riders present.

Fastest velocities reached today:

2pm race circuit results – Official Sepang MotoGP Trial, Second Day

At 2pm in the blisteringly hot Sepang, the leading trio remains Morbidelli, Quartararo, and Alex Marquez.

At present, just three motorcycles are on the circuit, those being the Ducati GP25s ridden by Marc Marquez in 9th position, his Ducati colleague Francesco Bagnaia in 13th, and test pilot Michele Pirro ranking 20th, likely collecting information under 'race time' scenarios.

Leading six: Franco Morbidelli, Fabio Quartararo, Alex Marquez, Fermin Aldeguer, Miguel Oliveira, Johann Zarco.

Lap times as of 12pm – Official Sepang MotoGP Trials, Second Day

It's just past noon, and with the current high temperatures, achieving faster lap times will be more challenging.

Franco Morbidelli continues to lead ahead of Fabio Quartararo, Alex Marquez, and Fermin Aldeguer, while Miguel Oliveira has moved up to fifth position representing Pramac Yamaha, followed by Johann Zarco in sixth for LCR Honda.

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP updates, exclusive content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the racetrack to your email.

For additional details, consult our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

It is strictly prohibited to entirely or partially copy or replicate any written content, images, or drawings in any manner.

Collision.Web

Bezzecchi Explores Significant Aprilia Variations from Ducati in MotoGP

Bezzecchi Adjusts to Aprilia During Sepang Trials

Marco Bezzecchi has remarked that the Aprilia MotoGP motorcycle demands slightly more physical effort than the Ducati he used to ride, as he goes through the process of getting used to it during the Sepang trials.

The racer, who has clinched victory at three grand prix events, was a part of the VR46 team, competing on Ducati bikes during the initial trio of years in his MotoGP journey. He then inked a contract with Aprilia to join their factory team for the 2025 season

On the initial day of the Sepang test, Bezzecchi recorded the 18th quickest time. By 4:30pm on Thursday, he had climbed to 12th position, shaving his lap time down from 1m59.207s to 1m58.5s.

Engaged in a hectic schedule of tests while adjusting to the RS-GP, Bezzecchi has identified a significant distinction between the Aprilia and the Ducati.

"He mentioned that the bicycle requires a bit more physical effort."

"Luckily, we're not facing any problems with temperature. However, it does require a bit more effort to maneuver the bicycle."

He mentioned, "Today, I feel slightly more joyful than I did yesterday since I'm beginning to gain confidence in riding the bike."

"I'm beginning to slow down effectively and approach the turn with greater assurance, as the motorcycle provides me with positive responses."

"Indeed, I'm content. There's still a lot we need to explore and experiment with, yet as of now, I have no grievances."

Bezzecchi observed that Aprilia's braking capabilities are impressive, aligning well with his riding technique. However, he acknowledged facing some challenges when riding the bike with new tyres.

He mentioned, "I encounter more problems when I switch to new tires, as I've extensively used the old ones yesterday and today, to the point where I'm actually performing better with the worn ones."

"When I switch to new tires, I find it somewhat more challenging. Additionally, it requires a change in how I ride, so I need to adjust accordingly."

"I believe there's been a significant improvement from last year. Naturally, I'm not entirely sure about the specifics of last year's bike since I had already tested the initial version of the 2025 bike in Montmelo."

"However, I can confirm that they are functioning quite effectively."

Bezzecchi commends the bike's aerodynamics but highlights the need for enhanced electronics

During the Sepang test, without Jorge Martin, Bezzecchi was impressed by the bike's aerodynamic design and was notably struck by the engine's power. However, he pointed out that advancements in the electronic systems are necessary to more effectively manage and utilize this power.

Aprilia's trial schedule faced significant setbacks due to an accident that resulted in Jorge Martin sustaining several broken bones, along with an incident involving Trackhouse Racing's Raul Fernandez, which led to a hand fracture.

Lorenzo Savadori has been enlisted for assistance, yet according to Bezzecchi, his responsibilities haven't significantly expanded beyond what was initially intended.

He mentioned that there was a slight increase in his workload due to Martin not being around, but it wasn't significant.

"Both of us needed to experience the same activities. It's unfortunate he's not with us in our group, since having two pieces of feedback for our team is superior to just one."

"I'm putting in maximum effort to provide them with the most accurate critiques and responses that I'm capable of."

Today, I'm accompanied by Sava, who consistently delivers excellent work for us. Without a doubt, he's performing admirably.

Statements given by Peter McLaren, Editor at Crash MotoGP

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

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

For further details, refer to our Privacy Policy.

Discover More

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP developments, unique stories, conversations straight from the racetrack, and special offers delivered right 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 the content, whether it be text, photos, or illustrations, fully or partially, is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Accident.Net

A MotoGP newcomer is pleasantly taken aback by how quickly he's adjusting

"In the simulator, I felt really comfortable…"

During the Shakedown last weekend, Fermin Aldeguer managed to participate in a Sprint simulation where he demonstrated remarkable speed, even though he experienced a crash early on.

"During the simulation, it was an amazing experience," he expressed. "There was a minor accident on the second lap, yet once I got my bike back up, I kept going and the sensation was phenomenal."

"Tomorrow, we'll conduct another simulation to examine the changes between the Shakedown and the present. This will help us understand our current position."

Indeed, Aldeguer has the advantage of riding the Ducati Desmosedici GP24, one of the most formidable motorcycles in the history of MotoGP, during his first season. He is also collaborating with crew chief Frankie Carchedi, who previously led Marc Marquez to three Grand Prix wins in 2024 and guided Joan Mir to a championship title in just his second year in the top tier.

However, it's also accurate to say that in just a few days as a MotoGP rider, Aldeguer has proven he can match the speed of riders with significantly more experience on identical bikes.

Aldeguer himself acknowledged that he has spent an additional three days at the Sepang circuit this year compared to many of his competitors, due to his participation in the Shakedown the previous weekend. However, when questioned whether his rapid adjustment to the MotoGP motorcycle was unexpected, the Spanish rider confidently answered, “Yes, definitely.”

"In conclusion, we participate for an additional three days compared to other competitors," he added, "yet the racecourse remains identical for everyone involved."

"We must keep going in this manner – ignoring our current standing and the clock – simply relying on my intuition and my ability to adjust, as we're making significant progress every day."

Just like other newcomers to MotoGP, Aldeguer is getting used to the series, and a significant aspect of this transition involves adapting to the tyres. In MotoGP, the Michelins offer a different feel and performance compared to the Dunlops and, as of late, the Pirellis he previously used in Moto2.

"Aldeguer stated, 'The difference comes not only from the new tyres but also from the bike itself, which has been entirely changed.'"

"In the Moto2, I'm able to maintain speed through the curve, whereas with the MotoGP motorcycle, although possible, it's not the optimal method for achieving high speeds. The strategy involves aggressive braking followed by leveraging the bike's electronics to navigate the corner's exit. I'm not noticing a difference in the tire's performance."

Aldeguer mentioned, however, that when it comes to wear, Pirelli tires exhibit comparable traits to Michelin tires, especially when contrasted with the Dunlops that Moto2 utilized up until the conclusion of 2023.

"Aldeguer noted that in this regard, the Pirelli shares more similarities with the Michelin in terms of experiencing a noticeable decline, necessitating perhaps the same approach, yet it remains entirely distinct."

"Currently, I'm figuring out how to utilize this Michelin tire effectively, focusing on its application during braking and exiting maneuvers."

One of the challenges in grasping tyre performance during the Sepang test sessions stems from the restricted number of tyres provided, along with the medium-compound tyres not being well-suited to the prevailing conditions. This situation has led many riders to opt for conserving their supply of soft tyres rather than utilizing a medium one.

"Aldeguer mentioned that he exclusively utilized the soft [compound] tyre, explaining that the medium one doesn't perform as well."

Yesterday, we witnessed the accidents and all the chaos that ensued. Now is not the time to gamble; it's wiser to play it safe, avoid errors, and begin the season on a positive note without straying from our path.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

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

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

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

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP updates, behind-the-scenes content, one-on-one interviews, 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 Formula 1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Reproducing the content, whether in full or in part, including text, photographs, or illustrations, is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Collision.Web

Ducati is facing a significant challenge, yet it poses an even greater concern for its competitors. The 2025 pre-season began for Ducati just as the 2024 season concluded, but the team departs Malaysia with a problem to address and only two more testing days remaining.

MotoGP pre-season testing is filled with numerous conditions and exceptions, rendering any concrete assessment of the on-track activities nearly unattainable. However, by interpreting the subtleties, one can often uncover some solid indications about the hierarchy of performance.

After the conclusion of the three-day testing session at Sepang, the results mirrored those from the conclusion of the previous year. Alex Marquez, riding the Gresini-operated GP24, achieved the fastest lap with a time of 1 minute 56.493 seconds. This time was just 0.156 seconds short of the all-time lap record established by Francesco Bagnaia during the qualifying rounds of last season's Malaysian Grand Prix.

In the combined rankings, Ducati claimed four out of the top five positions. Alex Marquez was closely followed by Bagnaia, while Franco Morbidelli from VR46 secured fourth place on a GP24, and Marc Marquez took fifth riding a factory Ducati.

When it comes to sheer performance, Ducati has a significant edge according to the top laps recorded by each manufacturer.

Top Speeds Achieved by Each

During time attack laps, the difference between the fastest and slowest times across the five manufacturers was just 0.835 seconds. In defense of Aprilia, the team faced the challenge of conducting the Sepang test without the participation of reigning world champion Jorge Martin and Trackhouse Racing’s Raul Fernandez, who was the sole returning Aprilia rider in 2025 and was out due to injuries. Consequently, the majority of the testing responsibilities fell to Marco Bezzecchi, newcomer Ai Ogura, and test rider Lorenzo Savadori.

Despite lacking confidence to fully push the RS-GP during his initial serious qualifying attempt, Bezzecchi managed to clock a lap time that was 0.718 seconds faster than the quickest Aprilia during the 2024 Malaysian Grand Prix qualifying. This impressive performance placed him within the top 10 on the test timesheets.

Although Yamaha's advancements during the testing appear to be authentic, the exceptionally high grip levels on the last day, which Marc Marquez described as "unreal," somewhat distort the overall results.

The M1 continues to face challenges with its rear grip issues, and a significant amount of rubber on the track is likely to conceal these problems. Additionally, Yamaha had the advantage of two additional days for their race riders during the shakedown. Nonetheless, the achievement of improving its best-ever lap time at Sepang by 0.868 seconds since last November is highly remarkable, a point that Bagnaia mentioned following the test.

A change in the team supporting Ducati is expected this season, and Yamaha's performance has been notably impressive.

Ducati GP24 Stands Out in Sepang Testing

Today, both Pecco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez successfully finished their Sprint race simulations. Pecco achieved an average lap time of 1 minute and 58.243 seconds, while Marc recorded an average of 1 minute and 57.930 seconds. #MotoGP #SepangTest

— Crash MotoGP (@crash_motogp) February 7, 2025

The GP24's performance is as expected. This motorcycle claimed victory in 19 out of the 20 grand prix races last season, such as the Malaysian GP, and is perfectly tuned. Alex Marquez and Franco Morbidelli are focused solely on riding and enhancing their comfort and confidence with the bike, without needing to engage in any development efforts.

This significant benefit has allowed Ducati riders, even those with just a year of experience, to achieve early success in the MotoGP season. In 2022, Enea Bastianini secured three out of his four grand prix victories on the GP21 bike within the initial seven rounds. Similarly, in 2023, Bezzecchi clinched two out of his three wins on the GP22 bike in the first five grand prix events.

It was expected that Alex Marquez would be at the forefront during the sprint simulations on the last day of testing.

Average Results from Sprint Simulation on Day Three in Sepang Testing

During the sprint simulation, Alex Marquez clocked an average time that was 0.595 seconds quicker than the pace Jorge Martin used to secure victory in the 2024 Malaysian GP sprint. Similarly, Marc Marquez recorded a time that was 0.567 seconds faster. Although grip levels significantly influence these results, this achievement marks a noteworthy improvement, particularly for Marc Marquez.

Last year, while racing in the Sepang sprint on the Gresini-managed GP23, his average speed was 1 minute 58.550 seconds, earning him second place. The eight-time world titleholder secured victory in three grand prix events with the often-criticized GP23 last season and ended up third overall in the championship standings, significantly outperforming the next-best GP23 competitor by a margin of 219 points.

A major question mark for 2024 was the potential impact Marquez might have had riding a GP24 alongside Bagnaia and Martin. The Sepang test has provided some insight into this speculation, yet the status of Ducati's 2025 model continues to be unclear.

Ducati Faces Engine Dilemma

At the Sepang testing sessions, attention has largely centered on evaluating the differences between the GP25 and GP24 engines. With a two-year engine development freeze set to begin for manufacturers without concessions starting from the Thai Grand Prix, the current decision is of significant importance.

Adding to Ducati's challenges is the exceptional performance of the GP24, which means that the GP25 engine must demonstrate a noticeable improvement before it can be approved.

Marquez, experiencing his initial fall while riding for the factory Ducati team on Thursday, remained reserved about which bike he utilized during his sprint simulation. He merely commented, "It was a mix. I used the 2024 aero, but you can't see the other parts… Therefore, I only mention the aero."

Bagnaia, a member of the team, mentioned that Ducati opted for "two distinct bike setups" to enhance the collection of data.

Consequently, he believes his speed didn't truly reflect his capabilities, explaining, "I wasn't very satisfied because there was an issue causing some vibration. It wasn't like last year, but with each lap, it became more problematic."

Bagnaia had just a single opportunity to push for a time attack and feels he didn't fully capitalize on it. Despite this, he was a mere 0.007 seconds behind Alex Marquez's fastest lap and managed to stay more than half a second ahead of his teammate, Marc Marquez.

Ducati has previously faced uncertainty regarding their engine specifications during pre-season.

Just before the 2022 season began, Bagnaia made the decision to change the factory motorcycles to a hybrid engine combining elements from the 2021 and 2022 models. This choice was made because the complete 2022 engine did not suit his riding style and caused issues during testing. This turned out to be a wise decision, as Bagnaia went on to win the championship. Meanwhile, the Pramac team, which was required to use the full 2022 engine, faced difficulties.

This situation isn't exactly the same for Ducati, but Marquez points out that the foundation the brand has for 2024 is "challenging to enhance." He also advises being careful about the path they choose.

"You need to be confident that it's an improvement, as with the 2024 model, you can fully compete for the championship," he stated.

In that situation, we experimented with various elements since it's not just about the engine or the aerodynamics. There are numerous minor factors involved. Today, our focus was on those small details, aiming to determine which components are superior and which ones fall short.

The speed demonstrated by Alex Marquez on the GP24 is likely to contribute to the ambiguity about the path Ducati intends to pursue. However, neither rider believed this would have an impact, as Bagnaia pointed out that evaluating a factory bike often initially reduces performance.

The last two days of testing in Buriram are critical for Ducati as it prepares to make a decision that will affect the upcoming two seasons. However, the situation seems positive regardless of the outcome: Ducati will either compete with an engine that has already won championships or with an improved version of it.

Regardless of the situation, Ducati continues to hold a leading position, though there are indications that their competitors are becoming more formidable.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

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

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Discover More

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

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

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Get the Latest from Crash MotoGP

Reproducing any part of the text, photos, or images, whether in full or in part, is prohibited in any manner.

Crash.Net is an online platform

Jorge Martin's Substitute Elaborates on Aprilia's Progress During His Recovery

Aprilia's Sepang Trials Proceed Unhindered by Jorge Martin's Injury

Lorenzo Savadori has taken on the majority of Aprilia's testing responsibilities, originally assigned to Jorge Martin.

Following a severe accident on Wednesday, MotoGP titleholder Martin will miss the remaining two days of the official Sepang trials.

On Wednesday, Raul Fernandez of Trackhouse was involved in an accident that resulted in injuries, resulting in Aprilia losing half of their racing team.

Consequently, test rider Savadori has been assigned to fill in for Martin.

"Instead of my test bike, we're using the official riders' bike," Savadori stated on Thursday in Sepang.

We experimented with various aerodynamic designs and an alternative electronic configuration.

"Our priority lies in advancing the bicycle's design, rather than its performance. It's essential for us to gain a deeper comprehension of certain solutions."

"We utilized certain components for the initial time in this context. During the preliminary testing, there wasn't enough time."

Savadori asserts that Aprilia is advancing in addressing their braking issue.

"Indeed, this bicycle represents an advancement over its predecessor, particularly in terms of braking capabilities," he stated.

"It's insufficient, yet it's a small move in the right direction."

Enhancements have been made to both the motorcycle's handling and the effectiveness of its engine braking

"Savadori described it as a combination. He noted that there were no major modifications to the RS-25. Overall, the motorcycle's performance and equilibrium were satisfactory, with enhancements made in certain aspects."

Jorge Martin sidelined, yet Aprilia continues to push forward

Aprilia has enhanced their power distribution, engine deceleration, and traction management, according to Savadori.

"He mentioned that at every stage, changes and enhancements were made."

However, their problem with the back tire continues and remains unresolved.

"Savadori mentioned that the task was far from easy."

"In this experiment, we're collaborating towards a common goal. It involves more complexity than merely interacting with the electronic components."

"It's crucial to grasp the trajectory and scrutinize the information; it's a significant task."

"Regrettably, Jorge can't make it to ride. That's why I'm stepping in to ride instead."

Savadori has also not had the chance to improve the Aprilia's performance across varying temperature conditions.

"Truthfully, I haven't found the opportunity to test it out," he mentioned.

"For Aprilia, the initial test spanned over three days! I evaluated the motorcycle to ensure everything was functioning properly.

"I couldn't explore every option. Perhaps in this experiment, we'll give it a shot."

Comments made by Peter McLaren in Sepang

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP developments, behind-the-scenes exclusives, interviews, and special offers straight from the track to your email.

For additional details, refer to our Privacy Policy.

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

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Bulletin

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP developments, exclusive content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the circuit to your email.

For additional details, please consult our Privacy Policy.

Breaking Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

Reproducing the text, photographs, or illustrations in whole or in part is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Accident.Net