Is Ducati encountering yet another aerodynamic dilemma during the Sepang MotoGP test?
It seems Ducati is grappling with another challenge related to their aerodynamic package at the Sepang MotoGP test. Notably, Marc Marquez has acknowledged that he has "four different aspects" of aerodynamics to evaluate.
For the past decade, Ducati has been a frontrunner in the realm of aerodynamics, especially since they introduced winglets on their Desmosedici in the 2015 season. However, the previous year saw the team divided, as they navigated between the 2024 aerodynamic package and its 2025 counterpart for much of the racing season.
This ongoing struggle appears to have carried over into the pre-season of 2026, with Ducati examining various aerodynamic configurations as they strive to finalize the optimal version ahead of the season opener.
"We need to keep working on the aerodynamic aspects because this is what we will need to homologate at the Thailand race," shared Marc Marquez, who finished 15th during Wednesday's session at the Sepang test. "The engine base remains unchanged from last year due to regulatory constraints. While everything else is significant, other elements can be adjusted throughout the season. Therefore, today, our primary focus is on aerodynamics, which will continue into tomorrow morning."
Marquez elaborated, "Aerodynamics is crucial; introducing a new aero package alters the bike's balance. Normally, I’m accustomed to my baseline setup, but when a new package is fitted, it requires patience to make necessary adjustments to the bike's balance."
When he was asked about the tasks ahead in this area on the final day of the Sepang test, he mentioned, "There are four distinct aerodynamic aspects to consider. This signifies we have a considerable amount of work to tackle. We need to explore various combinations to identify the best one for the upcoming 22 races."
This week at Sepang, Ducati showcased an innovative new front fairing, which received mixed reactions from the riders during Tuesday's discussions. On Wednesday, various aerodynamic packages, including wings from both the 2024 and 2025 specifications, were observed being tested on Ducati motorcycles.
According to the current regulations, teams must finalize one aerodynamic package before the start of the season, and non-concession rank D manufacturers are allowed only one additional specification upgrade throughout the racing calendar.
Lewis became part of the Crash.net team in August 2024, having spent five years as a journalist covering MotoGP for the Motorsport Network.
