Marco Bezzecchi ended the final morning of MotoGP testing at the Sepang circuit in fifth place, reflecting a strong start with the 2026 season just around the corner. Despite still having several upgrades to evaluate, the Aprilia rider’s initial experience with the new RSGP-26 motorcycle has brought him confidence as the championship approaches.
Progress and Expectations for the New Bike
Bezzecchi expressed optimism about the improvements, stating,
“In light of how these days are going, I really hope to be able to continue as I finished last season. I believe that the current bike is a step forward in every area,”
highlighting the overall advancement in the new machine’s design and performance.
When questioned about the updated tail design featuring fins, Bezzecchi refrained from detailing specifics, citing team confidentiality. He did note the subtlety of developments in MotoGP, emphasizing the challenge of spotting major differences in today’s highly refined technology:
“My boss doesn’t want me to answer these kinds of questions. Other than that, I have no idea. I can say, however, that considering where MotoGP is today, the differences are always small, so it’s difficult for me to give an honest answer.”
Observations on Rival Teams During Testing
Regarding insights from other manufacturers’ testing programs, Bezzecchi admitted limited observation but kept an eye on some key competitors.
“No, I haven’t really looked at the others much. Just Bagnaia a little this morning, and yesterday I watched Vinales and Acosta closely. I noticed some differences, which I then communicated to my technicians, but it’s difficult to make comparisons during testing because everyone is following different programs and using different tyres,”
he explained, underlining the complexities of drawing comparisons before the season begins.
Asked if he has gauged his competitive level, Bezzecchi remained cautious:
“As I said, it’s difficult to make accurate comments without knowing everyone’s work plan, tyres, and fuel quantity.”
Challenges and Advantages at Sepang’s Track
Bezzecchi also addressed the conditions of the track during testing, which complicated the process. The abundant rubber laid down over the sessions improved grip significantly compared to race weekends, making the bike quicker but requiring close attention to every sensation.
“Yes, because everything seems to be working well, so you have to be very careful to perceive every sensation and make accurate comments. The track is definitely in excellent condition, the pace is better than in the race, and you go faster. It’s not easy, but it’s definitely very nice to ride on a track like this, especially when you compare it to the situation during the race weekend when the grip is very poor. On the contrary, riding in these conditions with a MotoGP bike is really fun,”
he said.
Preparing for Thailand and the First Race
The team’s next stop will be Thailand, where the grip level will be notably different. Bezzecchi acknowledged the importance of this upcoming test since the season opener will take place at that circuit:
“Yes, and it will be important to go there because the first race will be held there.”
As for selecting the 2026 package to take into the season, no decisions have been finalized. He pointed out that weather interruptions have delayed testing progress, and more updates are scheduled for Thailand:
“No, not yet, because yesterday the rain slowed down our program, and we will also have other new things to try in Thailand, so nothing has been decided yet.”
Team Dynamics and Development Progress
Bezzecchi is also monitoring the work of his Aprilia teammates but noted that testing offers limited opportunity for direct comparison. Yet, the shared progress is valuable for identifying areas for improvement:
“Of course, although in testing you have less time to make comparisons except in the evening. However, it’s an important step to take because it allows you to understand where to improve.”
Reflecting on how much the bike has evolved, he rated the changes as moderate compared to last year’s more drastic updates:
“I don’t know, last year’s bike was changed more drastically. The RSGP-26 has been modified in several areas, but less significantly. So it has changed a bit, but it’s hard to give it a score. Maybe 4.”
Outlook on the Season and Racing Readiness
When asked about his chances for the championship, Bezzecchi urged patience, noting the season has yet to start and one final test remains.
“It’s still too early to say. We still have one test left, and we haven’t even done a race yet.”
He expressed eagerness to shift from testing to actual racing, highlighting the difference in excitement between the two.
“Absolutely. Also because tests are very important, but also boring. Races are more fun, but we need days like this. Now we’ll hold out for the afternoon and for Thailand, where the tests will be even more crucial as it’s the venue for the first GP, then it really starts.”
Time Attack Experience and Preferences
Bezzecchi took part in a time attack session during testing, though he was modest about his performance.
“Yes, this morning. Honestly, I would have liked to have done a little better, but having to keep trying new things, I always have to get used to something new in that situation too. So it wasn’t the time attack of my life, but in testing it only counts to a certain extent. In any case, I enjoyed it. At least my heart skipped a beat, otherwise you do four laps here and then come back in, and so on all day long.”
Comparing the thrill of a time attack lap against just riding the bike, Bezzecchi found the decision difficult but favored the challenge of pushing hard.
“Getting back on the bike gives you an incredible feeling, but doing the time attack and pushing hard for the whole lap is also great. It’s hard to choose, but I’ll go for the time attack.”
Implications for Bezzecchi and the 2026 Season
The testing phase at Sepang has reinforced Bezzecchi’s belief that the Aprilia bike has made measurable progress, although many variables remain unresolved. With tests continuing in Thailand, where track conditions will vary and the season’s first race will take place, the team must finalize its setup and strategies. Bezzecchi’s cautious optimism reflects the broader uncertainty typical before a new campaign but signals readiness to compete at a high level.
As Aprilia fine-tunes the RSGP-26 in the coming weeks, Bezzecchi’s insights from testing will be critical for maintaining momentum and challenging rivals like Bagnaia, Vinales, and Acosta. The rider’s focus on incremental improvements and adapting to different circuits will influence Aprilia’s competitiveness through the season’s opening rounds and beyond.
