The 2026 MotoGP pre-season has concluded, leaving teams and riders with a mix of triumphs and challenges as they gear up for the season's opening Thai Grand Prix. Here's a breakdown of the winners and losers from the test sessions.
Winners:
Aprilia: The Aprilia RS-GP has emerged as a strong contender, with Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi making significant strides. Martin, while still off the pace by two-three tenths, has found a more natural fit with the bike, and Bezzecchi has demonstrated exceptional speed, being the fastest over a single lap and a race run. Bezzecchi's performance positions him as a significant threat to Marc Marquez's title defense.
Pecco Bagnaia: Bagnaia's acknowledgment of the importance of the test and his positive results in qualifying and sprint simulations indicate a strong showing. However, he still needs to improve his corner entry repeatability and effectiveness with used tires, especially compared to Alex Marquez.
Ai Ogura: Ogura's performance was unremarkable for the first four days, but he delivered a strong showing on the final day, finishing second-fastest and impressing with his sprint simulation. Ogura remains confident in his chances, aiming for a top-seven finish, and believes he can easily join the podium battle.
Losers:
KTM Riders (excluding Pedro Acosta): KTM riders, excluding Pedro Acosta, have struggled to match the pace of other teams. Acosta, despite a noticeable pace deficit, remains optimistic about the KTM RC16's potential. However, other KTM riders have not shown similar conviction, with Acosta significantly ahead of them in single-lap times and race pace.
Honda: Honda has not closed the gap as desired, particularly at Buriram. The reinforced rear tire carcass, intended for heat resistance, may be a contributing factor. Both Joan Mir and Luca Marini have experienced a lingering rear grip deficit on corner exit, suggesting that the bike is not yet a finished product.
Yamaha: The new V4-powered M1 is currently not competitive, and Yamaha faces challenges. While some headline times are not terrible, the bike's performance over a grand prix distance is shaky, with a significant gap to the winner. Yamaha's next engine update is expected during the European races, and they must manage their resources effectively.
Fabio Quartararo: Quartararo, who caused a stir with his agitated behavior on the first day, has accepted the trophy-less season he expects. With a move to Honda on the horizon, Quartararo's focus is shifting, and he is unlikely to benefit from the current Yamaha bike's development.
Key Takeaways:
- Aprilia and its riders, particularly Bezzecchi, have made significant strides, posing a serious challenge to Marc Marquez's title defense.
- KTM's Acosta shows promise, but other KTM riders need to improve.
- Honda and Yamaha face challenges, with Honda struggling to close the gap and Yamaha's new bike not yet competitive.
- Marc Marquez remains a strong favorite for the 2026 crown, despite some vulnerabilities, as no other rider has made a significant step forward.
