In the post-Spanish Grand Prix testing at Jerez, Ducati’s Marc Marquez took the lead, showcasing impressive speed.
After three days of racing, the track’s grip was described as “super-super-super high,” which made it difficult to assess new components effectively, compounded by the relatively strong winds.
Marquez Sets the Pace
Marquez overcame his previous race crash to achieve the fastest times in both official test sessions, before and after the midday practice starts.
His best lap of 1m35.876s marked him as the only rider to hit the 1m35s range, falling just under three-tenths of a second shy of Fabio Quartararo’s pole time from the weekend.
KTM’s Maverick Vinales, who focused on aerodynamic testing, finished second for Tech3 after a strong late effort, besting Yamaha’s Quartararo and Alex Rins, who wrapped up their day early after testing a new engine.
Top 10 in the Monday Test:
1. Marc Marquez (Ducati)
2. Maverick Vinales (Tech3 KTM)
3. Fabio Quartararo (Yamaha)
4. Alex Rins (Yamaha)
5. Pedro Acosta (KTM)
6. Johann Zarco (LCR Honda)
7. Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia)
8. Fermin Aldeguer (Gresini Ducati)
9. Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse Aprilia)
10. Fabio Di Giannantonio (VR46 Ducati)
The Verdict on Yamaha’s New Engine
Yamaha’s new inline-four engine, though still under development, was considered a success by Rins, who noted an increase in top speed by 2km/h.
Quartaro urged caution in interpreting the data due to grip levels and track conditions, but he noted improvements as well. “We adjusted the electronics to make it smoother,” he said, emphasizing that more time is needed to fully assess the new engine.
What About Honda’s New Engine?
Honda and Yamaha are the only manufacturers allowed in-season engine upgrades, and Honda’s latest engine was previously tested by Aleix Espargaro. Espargaro opted out of the Monday test, but Joan Mir provided a more optimistic review, claiming it offers enhanced top-end power and a smoother delivery.
Mir also indicated that Honda’s current performance level demands careful consideration before introducing new components. A new swingarm was mentioned, which Luca Marini described as a minor improvement.
Work at Aprilia
Marco Bezzecchi from Aprilia finished in the top seven, focusing on aerodynamic enhancements and a new carbon swingarm designed for better stability. This area has been a priority for their development this season, which includes contributions from tester Lorenzo Savadori.
Michelin Front Tyre
An in-development Michelin front tyre was tested once more. Alex Marquez noted generally positive feedback, but tempered expectations due to the track’s compact nature. With Michelin set to be replaced by Pirelli in 2027, the viability of introducing a new product remains uncertain.
The Absentee
While Somkiat Chantra of LCR Honda participated partway through the day despite his previous race’s setbacks, and Rins pushed through injuries, Franco Morbidelli from VR46 Ducati skipped the test to prioritize recovery from a cervical contusion. Team manager Pablo Nieto stated that Morbidelli should be fit for the upcoming Le Mans race.
