From this night on, the team MotoGP Ducati Lenovo will return to the track in Sepang, Malaysia for the first pre-season test of 2024.
After the Campioni in Pista event and the team presentation at Madonna di Campiglio (Italy), Francis Bagnaia et Enea Bastianini are now ready to hit the track at Sepang for the first three days of pre-season testing, scheduled for February 6-8 at the Malaysian circuit.
On this same circuit which will host the Malaysian GP in November, the test driver Michele Pirro participated in the “shakedown” from February 1 to 3. Thanks to rather stable weather conditions, the San Giovanni Rotondo rider was able to carry out several tests on the Desmosedici GP, try out new components and begin development work before finishing in 1'59.330, 1,141 seconds behind the fastest, Peter Acosta.
. It's now up to the factory drivers to continue the work over the next three days of testing at Sepang.
Michele Pirro (#51, Ducati MotoGP Test Team):
“During these three days of 'shakedown', we accomplished a significant part of the development. The first day was completely dry, while the next two days saw a downpour towards the end. Overall, we managed to make good use of our time. The hot conditions at Sepang allowed us to carry out specific tests. In addition, we tested the new aerodynamic package, tried the new engine and created a solid working basis for the three days of testing that the factory riders will now face. The start has been positive and we are satisfied. Now we will try to continue in this direction. »
Francis Bagnaia (#1, Ducati Lenovo Team):
“I missed my Desmosedici GP during this winter break, so I'm delighted to finally be back on track at Sepang for the first test of 2024. The last test in Valencia last year produced positive results, and Michele has already worked for these three days. I expect to find a good base to continue developing the new bike. We have three demanding but also crucial days ahead of us. I hope the weather will allow us to take full advantage of all the time available. »
Enea Bastianini (#23, Ducati Lenovo Team):
“I’m delighted to be back. Throughout the winter I strived to achieve good physical condition before the Sepang test. Last week I was also in Portimão with other Ducati riders, training with my Panigale V4S, and now I'm ready! During the Valencia test I received positive feedback and immediately took a liking to the new bike. Here we will try a few new things, but overall I am confident. These three days are crucial and I will work hard. »
The Ducati Lenovo Team riders will take to the track for the first day of testing at Sepang tomorrow, Tuesday February 3. They will have eight uninterrupted hours on the track, starting at 10:00 a.m. local time, 3:00 a.m. French time.
