P1racenews AI automatic summary:
With development frozen, Valentino Rossi believes MotoGP 2026 could still deliver surprises from underperforming stars.
Valentino Rossi has described MotoGP 2026 as a “transition” year as engine designs are frozen and focus shifts to new 850cc machines. Rossi hopes former champions Bagnaia and Martin can return to top form, following nightmare 2025 seasons. Bagnaia struggled with Ducati GP25, while Martin faced injuries during his debut season with Aprilia.
Rossi emphasized that despite little technical change, this season is crucial as manufacturers are already looking ahead to 2027. His VR46 duo, Morbidelli and di Giannantonio, seek consistency after two winless MotoGP years. Rossi underlined the challenge of maintaining performance due to fierce competition and the need for constant improvement as they aim to be competitive at every circuit.
