P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Who’s genuinely happy after the first major MotoGP test of 2026 and who’s just trying their best to look it?
The three-day MotoGP test at Sepang in 2026 saw Marc Marquez return, but it was his brother Alex who topped the timesheets. Despite claims of gains by most manufacturers, Ducati riders dominated, filling five of the top seven spots. The standout performers in race simulations were Alex Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia, striking fear in their rivals. Major takeaways included Ducati’s strong single-lap pace and the acknowledgment from rivals of their enhanced performance. Honda’s grip deficit was evident, with Joan Mir highlighting the challenge of competing against the pace of the Ducatis. Looking ahead, Alex Marquez emerged as a favorite for the Malaysian GP, showcasing Ducati’s potential for the upcoming season.
