Following the Aragon Grand Prix, where Marc Marquez took first place and Pecco Bagnaia finished third, both Ducati riders returned to the MotorLand circuit on Monday to test a new MotoGP fairing ahead of the upcoming race in Mugello. This MotoGP fairing test aimed to improve bike performance, but the reactions from Marquez and Bagnaia differed significantly due to their contrasting seasons.
Testing New Fairing Designs to Enhance Performance
During the test, both Ducati riders focused on evaluating a new aerodynamic fairing developed to increase the rear tire’s load and grip while improving agility through chicanes. Ducati Lenovo Team Manager Davide Tardozzi explained that the fairing’s goal was to deliver improvements in multiple performance areas, though balancing enhancements across all aspects proved challenging.
In the morning we started with the programme – for both riders it is to investigate the new fairing. We are trying to have more load and grip on the rear tyre. We are trying to have more agility on the chicane,
Tardozzi said about the Aragon test.
Engineers are working to address questions raised by the riders after testing, identifying areas where the new fairing excels and those that still need refinement. This feedback will guide further development.
On Pecco’s side, there are already smiles and happiness. But on Marc’s side there are question marks. But that’s because Marc has a bike which is working perfectly for him. If we take the decision that the new fairing is better, we’ll have it from the next race at Mugello.
Tardozzi appeared relieved to see Bagnaia regain confidence after several difficult races marred by issues with the GP25’s front end. He expressed optimism about Bagnaia’s competitive prospects in Mugello, where the Italian rider previously secured a victory.
After [Sunday], we have Pecco back! At Mugello he will be very competitive,
Tardozzi remarked on Bagnaia’s resurgence.
Addressing the front-end challenges, Tardozzi noted the team had discovered ways to improve Bagnaia’s feel and performance, highlighting clear communication between the rider, technical director Gigi Dall’Igna, and engineers during the test.
We are smiling more to have Pecco back, than about the results.
Pecco Bagnaia Weighs Pros and Cons of the New Fairing
Following the test, Pecco Bagnaia was cautious about deploying the new aerodynamic package at Mugello, citing the need for further evaluation. He acknowledged that while the fairing provided benefits in certain areas, it also presented drawbacks in others, requiring additional testing to find the right balance.
It was a long day because we needed to try the new fairing. It’s true that it helps me in some areas but it’s worse in others,
Bagnaia said after the session.
We need to find a balance. Maybe we won’t take it to Mugello. We need more testing. There is a test in Barcelona for Michele Pirro, it’s important he puts in some kilometres.
Bagnaia mentioned experimenting with a new swingarm, which showed promise but was less effective under the conditions of the test day, complicating decisions on which developments to pursue.
I tried a new swingarm which worked well but not in conditions like today. So it’s difficult to make a decision,
he added.
Despite this, Bagnaia expressed a positive outlook, emphasizing improved feel, especially during braking and corner entry, though admitting he is not yet at full confidence or speed.
I feel good. Not at 100%. But I was able to brake in a strong way, to be confident on entry. I still need more speed. We need more time. Luckily, next is Mugello. It’s a track where I know every detail so maybe I can adapt quicker.
Marc Marquez Reports Similar Lap Times with New Aero Package
Meanwhile, Marc Marquez concluded the test in third place, just 0.132 seconds behind Maverick Vinales, who set the fastest lap time. Marquez noted that lap times between the new fairing and the current one were very close, which he interpreted as a positive indicator given the introduction of new components.
We concentrated on the new fairings. With both fairings, the lap time is very similar. When you bring something new and the lap time is similar, it’s a good sign,
Marquez explained.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining bike balance and pace, underscoring that Ducati analysts are reviewing the data to decide the best way forward. Marquez acknowledged he could use the new fairing at Mugello if the team chooses to adopt it but expressed caution about changing a setup that is currently working well for him.
He concluded with:
But we need to decide because our bike balance and pace is good. We need to decide to not lose this way.
Looking Ahead to Mugello and Further Testing
The results of this crucial MotoGP fairing test highlight the contrast between Ducati’s two leading riders, with Bagnaia enthusiastic but cautious about the new aerodynamic package and Marquez more reserved due to his current strong bike setup. Ducati’s engineers and analysts will continue to evaluate feedback and data to determine whether to implement the new fairing at Mugello.
With the Mugello race approaching rapidly, this decision will be pivotal in shaping the Ducati team’s performance during a key round in the championship. Further testing, including upcoming sessions in Barcelona with test rider Michele Pirro, is expected to refine the components before final implementation.
