Danilo Petrucci ended the first test day in Jerez with the sixth fastest time. Everyone was really curious about the rider from Terni's return on the Panigale after his adventure on a truck in the Dakar.
Step by step, the the Barni rider gained confidence using a lowered seat.
"Today was an exciting day," he began. "The bike is the same as the one from 2024, but we're good at gaining confidence right away. Bulega was very fast on the pace, as were Bassani and Iannone. But we're there, close to them, and we'll continue the work tomorrow. We definitely found different conditions than in October, but what matters is to have a tested and solid foundation."
What do you expect from this 2025?
"I think Toprak and Bulega will be the riders to beat. I haven't seen Nicolò on the track, and I haven't even looked at his data, but i definitely need to improve at mid-corner, since I'm too aggressive. We're working in that spot, where Bulega and Iannone are really fast. I'd say, for a first day, I'm happy. Now we just have to figure out Thursday, since it might rain."
How hard is it to get back on the bike after your desert adventure?
"It's tough, because the Dakar robs you from inside. I spent several days sleeping in the camper, while many others I was on the ground in a tent. Among other things, on the truck, I took some incredible beatings, which I still carry with me. So, I have to work to get back on track, since it's really stressful, and I'm struggling to recover. What matters is that I'm still on the ball."