MotoGP 2026 Shakedown Test: Aleix Espargaro Tops Times as New Era Takes Shape at Sepang

Sepang, Malaysia: The 2026 MotoGP season officially got underway with the conclusion of the Shakedown Test at Sepang, offering an early glimpse into the competitive landscape ahead of a record-breaking year of racing. With factory test riders, rookies, and concession Rank D manufacturers permitted to run, the three-day test produced encouraging signs across the grid — led by Aleix Espargaro at the top of the timesheets.

Riding for Honda, Espargaro posted a best lap of 1:57.173, the fastest time of the shakedown. The benchmark was notably quicker than Joan Mir’s qualifying lap at the 2025 Malaysian Grand Prix, underlining clear progress for the Japanese manufacturer as it adapts to reduced concessions following its move up to Rank C. Early indications suggest Honda has identified a strong development direction for its 2026 MotoGP challenger.

KTM Shows Strong Pace

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing ended Day 3 second fastest, with Pol Espargaro setting a 1:57.299, just a tenth of a second off the top time. The lap was also quicker than KTM’s best qualifying effort at Sepang in 2025, providing a positive signal ahead of official testing.

KTM deployed a three-rider test squad comprising Pol Espargaro, Dani Pedrosa, and Mika Kallio, focusing on aerodynamic updates and longer-term development components as the Austrian manufacturer continues to refine its 2026 package.

Yamaha Begins New V4 Era

Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP completed a major milestone as it debuted its all-new V4-powered YZR-M1. Fabio Quartararo finished third on Day 3, around half a second off the fastest time, while Jack Miller topped Day 2 for Prima Pramac Yamaha.

With concession Rank D status granting unlimited testing, Yamaha maximised track time by fielding six riders across the shakedown, including Alex Rins, Augusto Fernandez, Andrea Dovizioso, and rookie Toprak Razgatlioglu. The focus was wide-ranging, with the manufacturer evaluating every aspect of its new bike and philosophy.

Ducati and Aprilia Focus on Preparation

At Ducati, test rider Michele Pirro logged heavy mileage despite a couple of minor crashes, as the Borgo Panigale factory concentrated on preparing its 2026 machinery for the arrival of race teams. Ducati’s new aerodynamic package, unveiled on Day 1, was among the key talking points.

Aprilia Racing also used the shakedown for groundwork, with Lorenzo Savadori testing ahead of the arrival of Marco Bezzecchi, Raul Fernandez, and Ai Ogura. While the chassis direction is reportedly finalised, aerodynamic comparisons are expected to be a central focus during the upcoming official Sepang Test.

Rookie Watch: Moreira and Razgatlioglu

Rookies Diogo Moreira and Toprak Razgatlioglu took advantage of the extra track time. Moreira ended Day 3 with a 1:58.338 despite early technical issues on his LCR Honda, while Razgatlioglu closely followed with a 1:58.465aboard the Prima Pramac Yamaha. Both riders are expected to make further gains during the official test.

Eyes on Official Sepang Test

Attention now turns to the official Sepang Test from February 3–5, where full race line-ups will take to the track. Live timing and on-site coverage will offer deeper insight as MotoGP shifts from shakedown mode to full pre-season preparation ahead of the 2026 campaign.