Marc Marquez Dazzles with Ducati Debut: MotoGP Valencia Test

In a thrilling display of skill at the MotoGP Valencia Test, Maverick Vinales emerged as the frontrunner, showcasing his prowess on the Aprilia RS-GP. Completing a remarkable 86 laps, Vinales clinched the fastest lap of 1:29.253. His performance outpaced Brad Binder by a mere 0.028 seconds and left Marco Bezzecchi in third, only 0.065 seconds adrift.

Marc Marquez dazzles once again, this time making his much-anticipated debut on the Ducati Desmocedici GP23. The atmosphere at the Gresini Racing Ducati garage was electric, with everyone eager to witness Marquez’s first circuit run. Marquez quickly adapted to his new bike, initially securing third place and later advancing to a lap time of 1:29.424 on his 46th lap, finishing a close fourth, only 0.171 seconds behind the leader.

Raul Fernandez made an impressive debut on the 2023 Aprilia RS-GP, taking fifth place, while Alex Marquez, on his first ride with the GP23 Desmocedici, came in sixth. Both riders demonstrated a seamless transition to their new bikes, having competed on last year’s models during the 2023 season.

Fabio Di Giannantonio‘s first outing with the Mooney VR46 Racing Ducati team saw him navigating the GP23, joining the likes of Enea Bastianini, Jack Miller, and Luca Marini, who completed the top 10. Marini, in particular, completed an impressive 72 laps in his debut as a Repsol Honda rider.

Pecco Bagnaia, the reigning champion fresh from his Valencia GP victory, expressed optimism about the GP24 Desmocedici, finishing 11th. Fabio Quartararo and Joan Mir followed closely, while Augusto Fernandez and Jorge Martin rounded out the top 15, despite Martin experiencing two crashes.

Franco Morbidelli, now with Pramac Racing Ducati, closely trailed the 2023 runner-up, while Johann Zarco, transitioning to LCR Honda, overcame a crash to place 17th.

MotoGP newcomer Pedro Acosta quickly adapted to the GASGAS Tech RC16, displaying skill that caught many eyes. Marc Marquez dazzles in debut and Acosta’s impressive handling were among the day’s highlights. Acosta completed the test with a best lap-time of 1:30.476 after 70 laps.

Alex Rins, in his new role as a Monster Energy Yamaha rider, and Cal Crutchlow, only 0.201 seconds behind, showed promise. The day concluded with Takaaki Nakagami, Aleix Espargaro, who retired early due to an injury, and Lorenzo Savadori completing the timesheets.