P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Aprilia has brought a first-of-its kind MotoGP aero development to the first round of the 2026 season in Thailand.
Aprilia has introduced a new, innovative aerodynamic development for the 2026 MotoGP season, featuring intakes at the front and exhaust outlets at the back of the fairing, cleverly integrated where the rider’s arms fold in on straights. This design concept is reminiscent of the McLaren F-duct from F1 in 2010, redirecting airflow to increase straight-line speed by creating flow separation on the rear wing.
The new fairing aims to shed drag in a straight line, potentially enhancing performance on the straights, although the exact mechanism and impact are still being analyzed. The outlets are believed to vent through the main fairing’s side, influencing mid-corner downforce by stalling the curved outer part of the fairing for added stability.
Initially tested at Sepang and Buriram, Aprilia’s new fairing has garnered attention for its potential benefits, especially its impact on cornering and top speed. Should Aprilia choose to race with this new fairing, it would require homologation, potentially prompting other manufacturers to develop similar aerodynamic solutions to stay competitive within the regulations of MotoGP.
