Exciting Start to 2026 MotoGP Testing
As the 2026 MotoGP season kicks off, there’s much to discuss. Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) makes a noteworthy return, taking the top spot on the first day of testing. Meanwhile, Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) crashed at Turn 5 and has chosen to return home. Although initial assessments showed no fractures, Quartararo experienced persistent arm and hand pain and opted to focus on his recovery.
Second place overall was secured by Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), with Maverick Viñales (Red Bull KTM Tech3) finishing third.
Marc Marquez’s Strong Comeback
Marc Marquez quickly dispelled any concerns about his injuries from 2025, demonstrating steady improvement throughout the day and ultimately achieving a time of 1’57.018, marking him as the fastest rider. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) concluded the day in eighth position, 0.702s behind Marquez but remained optimistic, targeting a race simulation for day two.
This strong performance was mirrored by Di Giannantonio, who made a fast start to 2026, finishing in P2 after a late surge. His teammate, Franco Morbidelli, rounded off the top ten, improving significantly from the morning session.
Gresini and KTM Teams’ Performances
Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) led the first session but failed to improve in the afternoon. In the Red Bull KTM Tech3 camp, Viñales’s late push allowed him to claim third overall, while Enea Bastianini and Brad Binder finished P12 and P13, respectively, focusing on testing rather than chasing times.
Honda’s Progress and Yamaha Challenges
Factory Honda riders Luca Marini and Joan Mir highlighted their advancements, both finishing in the top seven. Johann Zarco narrowly missed the top ten by a mere 0.072s. However, it was a tough day for Yamaha with Quartararo’s injury sidelining him for the remainder of testing. Teammate Alex Rins will now carry the team forward, while Jack Miller from
Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP strived to leverage his experience for further development.
Looking Ahead
Overall, day one of testing has set a thrilling stage for the MotoGP season. The riders and teams are eager to get back on the track, with more action expected on Wednesday at Sepang. Stay tuned for updates!
