The MotoGP 2026 season has finally taken off at the Sepang circuit, where the first collective test revealed as many promises as surprises. Between dazzling performances and unexpected crashes, this first day highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of the teams. Buckle up, because it’s starting strong!
A Tense Opening
This Tuesday morning at 10 a.m., the pit lane of the Sepang circuit opened, marking the long-awaited kickoff of the MotoGP year. After a three-day shakedown reserved for rookies and test riders, this collective test is the ideal opportunity for teams to assess the developments made during the winter break. All eyes were on the riders as they took to the track in a symphony of roaring engines.
Unfortunately, two notable riders were missing. Jorge Martín, recovering after two surgeries for injuries to his left scaphoid and right shoulder, and Fermín Aldeguer, who suffered a fracture of the left femur during training. Their absences were felt, but it also opened the door for other talents. Andrea Dovizioso and Lorenzo Savadori, test riders, stepped in for their respective teams, Yamaha and Aprilia.
First Impressions on the Track
Once the lights turned green, the riders quickly flooded the track, and it was young Diogo Moreira (Honda) who made a strong impression in the first minutes, climbing to the top of the standings. With already three days of track time under his belt thanks to the shakedown, he showed he was not there just to make up the numbers.
Following him, figures like Álex Rins (Yamaha) and Pedro Acosta (KTM) tried to assert themselves, but it was Marco Bezzecchi, on his brand-new Aprilia, who truly made waves by clocking a time of 1’57″894. The Italian thus took a decisive lead of three-tenths over his competitors, making those who hoped to see the Ducatis dominate the standings shiver.
But beware, the competition is fierce! A little later in the morning, Álex Márquez also shone by improving his time by four-tenths with his factory Ducati prepared by Gresini. It was a morning marked by the diversity of brands at the top, with five different manufacturers in the top 5.
Márquez Returns, Quartararo Unlucky
The return of Marc Márquez to a MotoGP bike was eagerly anticipated. After a prolonged absence due to a shoulder injury, he made a notable entry by completing 29 laps before the lunch break. Although his return raised high expectations, it remains to be seen if he can maintain this pace throughout the tests.
On the other hand, the day was more complicated for Fabio Quartararo. The French rider experienced a crash within the first hour, occurring at turn 5. Although the medical check was reassuring — “He’s fine, he just hurts,” said Massimo Meregalli — the incident reminded everyone that the slightest mistake can be costly in MotoGP.
The misfortunes were not over for Yamaha. Dovizioso encountered technical problems with his M1 early in the day, and Miller also crashed at turn 9 without serious consequences. Later, Moreira found himself on the ground at the same turn as Quartararo while riding with Johann Zarco.
The sweltering heat of 33°C certainly contributed to slowing activity on the track as lunchtime approached. The riders had to cope with difficult conditions while trying to get the best out of their machines.
Standings at Lunch Break
By 1 p.m., the standings already revealed surprises. Marco Bezzecchi was leading brilliantly, followed by Álex Márquez and Luca Marini. This season opener highlighted not only the talent of the riders but also the hard work of the teams during the winter. The Ducatis are present, but the Japanese bikes seem dominant for now.
Beyond the performances, these tests remind us how unpredictable MotoGP is. Every lap can change the game, and every turn can become the stage for drama. Fans can expect an exciting season where every race will be a true challenge for the riders.
Conclusion: A Promising Start but Fraught with Challenges
As this first day of testing in Sepang comes to an end, it is clear that 2026 promises to be a year full of twists and turns. Teams will need to continue refining their machines and riders to hone their skills to be at the top in the upcoming races. If this day taught us anything, it’s that nothing is guaranteed and that every moment on the track can disrupt the established hierarchy.
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