Ducati Lenovo Team Begins 2026 MotoGP Campaign with Sepang Official Test

Sepang: The Ducati Lenovo Team has officially kicked off its 2026 MotoGP season with the opening pre-season test at the Sepang International Circuit, marking the first on-track appearance of the new Ducati Desmosedici GP in its striking Rosso Centenario livery.

The three-day official test in Malaysia signals the start of Ducati’s title defence, with reigning World Champion Marc Márquez returning to racing action alongside Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia. The Sepang test serves as a crucial preparation phase ahead of the season-opening Thai Grand Prix, scheduled for February 27 to March 1.

Following the Campioni In Pista event, where Márquez and Bagnaia first unveiled the new Desmosedici GP livery, focus now shifts fully to track development. The Borgo Panigale-based manufacturer enters the new season with ambitious objectives, aiming to defend three world titles while continuing to push performance benchmarks in the premier class.

Official testing was preceded by the Sepang Shakedown Test, held from January 29 to 31, with Michele Pirro and Ducati’s Test Team leading early development work. Despite challenging weather conditions and a packed testing schedule, Ducati reported encouraging progress, logging significant mileage and establishing a solid baseline ahead of the arrival of its factory riders.

From February 3 to 5, Márquez and Bagnaia will lead Ducati’s official testing programme, focusing on fine-tuning the Desmosedici GP ahead of competitive action. The duo will also take part in the MotoGP Season Launch event on February 7, a global fan celebration featuring all teams and riders.

The launch event, titled KL26Launch, will transform the heart of Kuala Lumpur into a MotoGP festival, combining a roadshow, live entertainment, and fan engagement activities as anticipation builds for the new season.

Commenting on the early testing phase, Michele Pirro (#51), Ducati Lenovo Team Test Rider, said, “The first test of the season here in Malaysia is always tough. There are many parts to evaluate and the weather can be demanding. The Test Team worked hard and the feeling is positive. We now have a good base, but feedback from Marc, Pecco, and the other Ducati riders on the new Desmosedici GP will be crucial. There is still a lot of work to do, but the initial approach has been encouraging.”