For years, during MotoGP pre-season testing, aerodynamics has been discussed almost more than riders, engines, or chassis. Wings, appendages, airflow, the Venturi effect: just like in Formula 1. And this will still be the case next season, despite the restrictions stipulated by the new regulations. In the immediate future, some, Ducati chief among them, are facing a problem… of abundance.
By Alessio Piana / Corsedimoto.com
Four aerodynamic configurations
During the Sepang tests, no less than four different aerodynamic configurations were observed on the Ducati Desmosedici GP26 entered in Factory specification (Marc Marquez, Pecco Bagnaia, Alex Marquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio).
Yes, four: two completely new and two already seen in the last two seasons.
The following were tested:
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the version 2024 (used throughout the 2025 season by Bagnaia),
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the version 2025 (introduced at Mugello, then operated full-time by Marquez from Assen, and more occasionally by Bagnaia and Di Giannantonio),
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as well as two new solutions.
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The first, named "full 2026", includes a new side fairing and a more aggressively shaped nose, with particularly pronounced fins.
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The second, the “Mix 2026”, combines the 2026 side fairing with the nose of the 2025 version.
Who tested what?
On the second day, Marc Marquez drove with the 2024, 2025 configurations and the 2026 Mix hybrid version, after having already tried the Full 2026 on the first day.
Pecco BagnaiaFor his part, he spent most of his time with the 2024 version, while also completing a convincing Sprint simulation with the Mix 2026.
Di Giannantonio also evaluated this latter solution, whileAlex Marquez was the first, from the opening day, to test the Full 2026.
The regulations
In accordance with the regulations, Ducati will have to homologate a first aerodynamic configuration before the 2026 opening Grand Prix. A second evolution may be introduced during the season (according to the provisions provided for manufacturers benefiting from concessions A, B or C).
The regulations also allow the combination of different parts between the two approved fairings (front fairing, mudguard, side panels, other elements). It is therefore possible, for example, to combine a front end with a later evolution of the side panels.
Decision expected in Buriram
The decision regarding the 2026 aerodynamics, the first homologation, will be made during the Buriram tests (February 21-22) for each of the pilots.
Of the four configurations evaluated in Sepang, the solution Mix 2025-2026 seems to be the frontrunner at present: 2026 side fairing combined with the 2025 nose. The full 2026 version is, for the moment, no longer a priority.
As an alternative, the 2024 configuration remains a credible option.
Read the original article on Corsedimoto.com
Alessio Piana
MotoGP aerodynamics
