The final day of testing for the Sepang MotoGP is currently in progress. Yamaha’s new V4 bike has returned to the track following a “technical issue” that sidelined it on Tuesday, now with full approval to continue testing. Last week’s initial shakedown was led by Honda test rider Aleix Espargaro. On the official test day, reigning world champion Marc Marquez made his comeback from injury and put Ducati at the top of the leaderboard.
Joan Mir responded strongly in his RC213V, becoming the first rider this year to clock a lap in the 1 minute 56 second range on the second day. Unfortunately, rain in the late afternoon halted further attempts to improve lap times. Yamaha picked up testing again on the final day, but factory rider Fabio Quartararo had to sit out after breaking his finger on the opening day. Alongside Quartararo, Jorge Martin and Fermin Aldeguer are also unable to take part.
The test schedule runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., divided into two sessions: the first from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by practice; and the second from 1:20 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., again succeeded by additional practice.
The last pre-season test will take place in Buriram on February 21 and 22, right before the season opener in Thailand.
During Thursday’s third day session at 11 a.m., Alex Marquez topped the time charts with a lap of 1:56.402 seconds riding the BK8 Gresini Ducati GP26. Close behind were Fabio Di Giannantonio and Francesco Bagnaia, both on Ducati machinery. Notable performances also came from Marco Bezzecchi on Aprilia and Marc Marquez on Ducati, all within a second of the leader. Honda’s Joan Mir clocked a solid 1:56.874 on day two, marking the fastest time of that day. Marquez had set the fastest time on day one with 1:57.018.
Looking back, Aleix Espargaro led the 2025 Sepang shakedown with a 1:57.173 lap on Honda. Official Sepang records include Francesco Bagnaia’s best lap at 1:56.337 in 2024 and Alex Marquez’s fastest race lap at 1:58.873 in 2023.
The upcoming days and final test session will be crucial for all teams to fine-tune their setups and strategies before the 2026 season begins. The data gathered here will significantly influence bike development and rider preparation as they aim for top performance in the opening rounds.
Fan Take: This pre-season testing at Sepang is essential for MotoGP fans as it offers a first real look at how the teams and riders are shaping up after the offseason. With top riders returning from injury and new machines back on track, this testing period could hint at a thrilling and highly competitive season ahead.
