P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Wild-card Aleix Espargaro delivers an impressive Friday performance on the 2026 Honda at the Valencia MotoGP finale.
Aleix Espargaro posed a threat to his younger brother Pol’s status as the season’s fastest test rider during competitive Friday practice at the Valencia season finale. Coming from testing the 2026 Hondas at Aragon, Aleix impressed with third fastest in practice, remaining just 0.1s shy of Qualifying 2 access. Despite the need to care for the factory machines, Aleix noted improvements in the new bike’s stability and torque, indicating room for further enhancement in aerodynamics. Aleix expressed pride in the test team’s hard work and his own performance, aiming to push harder for a top 5 finish with the improved machinery. Mir was the only Honda rider quicker than Aleix on Friday, showcasing the positive progress made with the new bike.
