During a wet one-day test at Jerez, Alex Lowes doubted Nicolo Brega’s readiness for his MotoGP debut in 2025. Lowes, who was at Jerez for a Michelin World Superbike tire test, noted that Brega only managed about 20 laps on a damp track, which he felt was insufficient experience to compete mid-season in MotoGP. Despite this, Brega went on to race in the final two 2025 MotoGP events at Portimao and Valencia and participated in the post-season Valencia test, following his strong Superbike World Championship performance where he finished second to Toprak Razgatlioglu.

Lowes expressed skepticism about Brega’s ability to quickly adapt, emphasizing the high level of competition and the similarity of bikes in the MotoGP paddock. He highlighted that the Jerez test, affected by rain, didn’t allow Brega enough dry track time, and suggested a longer testing period would have been more beneficial. Lowes described Brega as a talented rider but noted the challenge of quickly acclimating to the sport’s top tier mid-season without ample preparation. He also mentioned that Brega has a testing role with Ducati for the next season and might use that opportunity to develop his skills before fully committing to MotoGP in 2026.

Reflecting on his own experience substituting riders, Lowes believes Brega has the talent and potential to perform well after gaining more experience on the Ducati MotoGP bike. He views Brega as part of a group of riders at a similar skill level and is curious to see how Brega will progress with more time in the premier class.

Fan Take: This insight into Brega’s transition to MotoGP shows how daunting stepping up mid-season can be, even for accomplished riders. For racing fans, it underscores the importance of preparation and gradual adaptation in MotoGP and hints at the exciting potential Brega holds as he gains experience, possibly shaping the competitiveness of future seasons.