P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Marc Marquez topped day one of the Sepang MotoGP test 121 days on from injury
The reigning MotoGP world champion, Marc Marquez, emerged as the fastest rider on the opening day of the 2026 Sepang test, showcasing a remarkable comeback just 121 days after a serious shoulder injury suffered in October.
Marquez, aged 32, endured a complex shoulder injury following a collision with Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi during the Indonesian Grand Prix, which necessitated surgery and kept him out for the rest of the 2025 season, including the crucial post-season test in Valencia.
Despite not being at full physical fitness, Marquez led the way on the factory Ducati, posting a time of 1m57.018s, ahead of Fabio Di Giannantonio and Maverick Vinales in second and third, respectively.
His brother Alex Marquez initially set the pace in the first session but was overshadowed by Di Giannantonio later in the day; however, Marc Marquez ultimately reclaimed the top spot with his impressive performance.
Other notable performances included Pecco Bagnaia testing Ducati’s new aero package and Fabio Quartararo improving to ninth position on the factory Yamaha V4 after a significant crash in the morning session.
