P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Massimo Rivola reveals Aprilia’s Thai MotoGP simulation correctly flagged Marco Bezzecchi’s big step in performance relative to 2025.
Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola was amazed by the accurate simulation data predicting Marco Bezzecchi’s remarkable improvement in race pace at the Thai MotoGP. Despite an early setback, Bezzecchi clinched a dominant victory, surpassing his previous lap time and finishing ahead of Pedro Acosta. It’s worth mentioning that Bezzecchi still lagged one second behind Marc Marquez’s 2025 race-winning time in Thailand.
In contrast, Marquez let his brother, Alex Marquez, lead the 2025 race due to concerns about tyre pressure. Bezzecchi excelled in the 2026 race despite a slow start the previous year and tire wear challenges among other riders. Ai Ogura led the Aprilia charge in the 2025 Grand Prix but had a tougher race in 2026, finishing behind Marquez.
Rivola credited the team’s aerodynamic improvements for Bezzecchi’s success and highlighted the accuracy of their CFD and wind tunnel data. Bezzecchi showcased his superior cornering skills compared to Marc Marquez during the event, securing a memorable win for Aprilia over Ducati. Rivola expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance and potential, showing optimism for the rest of the season.
