Could Ducati be grappling once again with aerodynamic challenges at the MotoGP test in Sepang?
It seems that Ducati is indeed dealing with yet another set of aerodynamic issues during the ongoing MotoGP test at Sepang, as Marc Marquez revealed he has "four different aspects" to evaluate. Aerodynamics has become a key area where Ducati has excelled over the past decade, especially since they introduced winglets on their Desmosedici at the start of the 2015 season.
However, last year marked a turning point, with the team often alternating between their 2024 aerodynamic package and the upcoming 2025 version throughout the season. This confusion appears to have persisted into the pre-season preparations for 2026, where the team is currently testing a variety of aerodynamic configurations in hopes of finalizing the most effective version before the first race of the new season.
Marquez, who finished 15th on Wednesday at the Sepang test, shared insights into his testing priorities: "We need to keep working on the aerodynamic elements because those are what we will need to homologate at the Thailand race. The fundamental engine remains unchanged from last year due to regulations, but everything else is just as important. However, all other components can be refined as the season progresses. That’s why today we’re heavily focused on aerodynamics, and we plan to continue this focus tomorrow morning."
The impact of aerodynamics is significant; even a slight change in the aero package can alter the balance of the bike. Marquez noted, "Typically, I’m accustomed to riding with my baseline setup, but switching to a new aerodynamic configuration requires patience to recalibrate the bike's balance."
When asked about the workload he faced on the final day of the Sepang testing, he remarked, "We have to consider four distinct aspects of the aerodynamics. It’s a considerable task ahead of us. There are multiple combinations, and we need to identify the best option for the upcoming 22-race season.”
This week, Ducati unveiled an innovative new front fairing at Sepang, which received mixed feedback from the riders when they were questioned about it on Tuesday. On Wednesday, various iterations of the aerodynamic packages could be observed on the Ducatis, including both the 2024 and 2025 specifications. According to the current regulations, teams must officially homologate one aerodynamic package before the season opener. Additionally, manufacturers classified as non-concession rank D are allowed only one further specification upgrade during the racing season.
Lewis joined the Crash.net team in August 2024, bringing with him five years of experience as a journalist covering MotoGP for the Motorsport Network.
