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Sepang Test Puts Ducati on Top as Yamaha Contains V4 Issue Before Buriram

Buriram now becomes the first clear read on Ducati’s Sepang speed alongside Yamaha’s V4 recovery.

Overview

  • Ducati set the short‑run benchmark at Sepang, with Gresini’s Alex Marquez producing a standout 1:57.295 sprint simulation that rivals, including Honda’s Joan Mir, acknowledged they could not match.
  • Francesco Bagnaia reported his front‑end feeling is back on the GP26 and logged a strong sprint run, though he flagged late‑run front‑tyre fade and will confirm aero choices at the Buriram test.
  • Yamaha halted day two after engine failures for Fabio Quartararo and Toprak Razgatlioglu, then resumed with restricted mileage once the issue was identified as under control; Alex Rins led Yamaha’s times on the final day.
  • Thanks to D‑concession freedoms, Yamaha can alter engine design mid‑season and schedule private tests to recover lost running from Sepang.
  • Toprak Razgatlioglu detailed adaptation challenges to MotoGP’s rear Michelin and long corners after following Jack Miller for reference, with setup changes targeted for Buriram on February 21–22.