Pecco Bagnaia, the iconic Ducati rider, seems to finally be turning the page on a tumultuous season. After struggling to find his bearings with the Desmosedici, he approaches the first tests of the Ducati GP26 with a renewed sense of optimism. Between regained sensations and new configurations, the Italian feels ready to take on the challenge of the new season.
A Season Spent in the Shadows
Pecco Bagnaia experienced a 2023 marked by ups and downs, including a Grand Prix in Japan where he brilliantly dominated his competitors. But aside from this standout performance, the Italian often faced difficulties mastering the front of his bike during braking, an aspect that was one of his strengths with previous versions of the Desmosedici. His goal? To regain that ease with the new GP26.
Encouraging Tests in Sepang
During the recent tests in Sepang, Bagnaia recorded times that, although far from those of Marc Márquez, are hardly concerning. The seven-tenths of a second deficit does not seem to bother the champion, who is focusing more on his feelings aboard the new machine. “I spent the winter praying for things to go well, and honestly, it’s going well,” he stated, his face marked by palpable relief.
From the first laps, the rider felt an immediate connection with his bike, calling it “incredible.” “I realized that my feelings were better, in braking and corner entry,” he added, demonstrating a regained confidence.
Bagnaia, all smiles after an encouraging day in Sepang.
A Return to Roots
Despite uncertainties about the impact of the changes made to the GP26, Bagnaia does not hesitate to thank Ducati for its support during this difficult period: “I really want to thank Ducati for helping me find this here.” He admits, however, that some elements could be influenced by the track itself, where he had previously excelled.
“It’s a good start,” he concludes, visibly satisfied with what he has experienced so far. On his side, Álex Márquez, a rider for Gresini, also had the chance to test the GP26 and claims to have felt sensations similar to those of the GP24 he rode last year. An undeniable sign of progress for Ducati.
Promising Technical Adjustments
During this first day of testing, Bagnaia took the time to work on technical aspects, notably testing two different fairings. His feelings with both versions are positive, suggesting that notable advancements have been made. “We focused a lot on the new fairing and on doing laps on used tires with it,” he explains. “I matched the same time as with the old fairing, so for a first outing, it’s pretty good.”
The rider also mentioned the height adjuster, whose latest version seems to have improved its functioning compared to previous prototypes. “For me, it’s better,” he specified, clearly enthusiastic about exploring the new possibilities this technology offers.
Toward a Race Simulation
For the next tests, Bagnaia plans a race simulation to fine-tune his bike’s settings. “Tomorrow, we might do a race simulation, a sprint race simulation,” he announces. The strategy seems clear: refine performance before focusing on a fast lap on the final day of testing. The Italian is determined to see how these new adjustments perform over the long term.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Ducati?
With such promising tests, Pecco Bagnaia seems to have regained the morale and sensations that made him shine in the past. His ability to adapt to the evolutions of the Ducati GP26 could very well make the difference in this new season. As competition intensifies in MotoGP, we can only look forward to seeing how new technologies and Bagnaia’s talents will combine to deliver excitement on racetracks around the world. To follow the news of this thrilling championship, visit our dedicated MotoGP section.
Pecco Bagnaia shows his determination on the Ducati GP26.
