Franco Morbidelli came in 6th overall at the end of the first MotoGP 2026 test. He was optimistic, yet, cautious about it. The VR46 team rider completed the planned program without any major problems, focusing on getting to know the new features adopted on his 2025 Ducati.
"For me, it's a positive outcome. It's been three days of intense work. Exactly what it takes to best adapt to the new package and the pace of the MotoGP. The improvements have been consistent, so I'm happy," the rider from Rome said.
Your teammates are all riding the GP26, while you're on the GP25. Does this affect the work you have to do?
"No, I just did what I had to do, trying to improve according to my feelings. Of course, I kept an eye on the other Ducatis because, since they're different bikes than mine, they manage to be faster in some areas where I'm slower and where I can, therefore, improve."
With your current bike, do you feel closer to the factory riders than you did last season?
"In my opinion, yes. Last year, compared to 2024, I didn't receive any updates. This time I did."
Is it already possible to get an idea of the numbers on the field after just one test?
"Certainly. First Marquez, second Bezzecchi, third Giannantonio, fourth Marc Marquez, fifth Bagnaia. Actually, fifth Mir, sixth Pecco, and seventh me."
But that's is the time ranking, not the numbers on the field?
"The times reflect the numbers on the field. Always. If you look at the order of arrival of the last edition of the Sepang GP, nothing has changed. All those who were ahead before are still ahead now."
Have you managed to solve last year's problems?
"We're working on it. The gap is four-tenths of a second, and that's not what I'd like to have. So we have to get moving."