After spending three days in Malaysia and two in Qatar (in addition to the preview in Valencia last November and the Sepang shakedown test), the MotoGP teams have completed their pre-season work for 2024. Now, they are getting ready for the season-opening grand prix at Lusail in less than three weeks.
Some teams can enter the race with confidence in their strong start, while others are less certain. Here, we highlight the winners and losers of the winter season.
Pecco Bagnaia set the unofficial lap record in both Malaysia and Qatar, lowering the benchmark at Lusail by eight tenths of a second. However, it’s important to note that other riders were also under the pole record, and the track conditions were favorable. Raul Fernandez achieved a nine-tenths improvement on Aprilia’s best effort from November, and Marc Marquez’s Ducati GP23 was seven tenths faster than Bagnaia’s previous time. What stands out is Bagnaia’s ability to consistently secure first place during qualifying simulations. As the best qualifier in MotoGP last year, Bagnaia’s form seems to be continuing with the 2024 Ducati.
Ducati’s technical chief, Gigi Dall’Igna, expressed confidence in the potential for improvement on the Ducati Desmosedici GP23. The GP24 is expected to be a significant step forward compared to its predecessor. So far, the signs are positive, with no major issues reported during pre-season testing. The factory riders have praised the GP24, and the team’s performance in Sepang and Lusail speaks for itself.
Aleix Espargaro, at 34 years old, has shown impressive competitiveness during the two tests. He has adapted well to Aprilia’s 2024 aero developments and has been leading the way for the team. While he acknowledges a relative lack of power in the bike, Espargaro remains excited and ready to fight in the upcoming season.
Di Giannantonio has proven himself with a strong pre-season performance, outshining his VR46 team-mate Marco Bezzecchi. The rookie rider, Acosta, has also made a strong impression, demonstrating instant competitiveness compared to his fellow KTM RC16 riders.
Yamaha and Honda are taking a long-term approach to their development, but based on the pre-season, neither team seems ready to make a significant leap forward just yet. Honda’s riders are pleased with the new RC213V, but race pace remains a concern. Yamaha’s speed trap figures are impressive, but their qualifying times are lacking.
Franco Morbidelli’s absence during pre-season testing due to injury will likely impact his performance in the early rounds of the season. However, the GP24 appears to be a well-designed and compliant bike.
Fernandez has had a tough pre-season, feeling like he’s playing catch-up. Miguel Oliveira also expressed frustration with his performance during the tests, but there were signs of improvement towards the end.
Overall, the riders on the hand-me-down Ducati Desmosedicis can be satisfied with their pre-season performance. However, there is some concern that they may already be at a disadvantage compared to the factory machines.
Despite these challenges, the teams are preparing for the upcoming season, ready to face the competition and continue their pursuit of success on the track.
According to the Source the-race.com
2024
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