It’s the beginning of the 2024 MotoGP season and todays test was the first opportunity to see all of the 2024 machines out in action . New livery designs were present everywhere in the paddock with each team’s recent releases. On day one it was reigning champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) who showcased a 1:52.040 lap to lead. Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) had considerable pace but finished just over 2 tenths behind Bagnaia on Day 1. The battle between Martin and Bagnaia will be the fight to watch for 2024. In the closing rounds of the 2023 MotoGP season Jorge Martin struggled with machine failures and poor setup choices which ultimately cost him the run at the title. Martin is back and hungry as ever to show that he deserves a factory seat where ever that may be.
After the launch of their 2024 program yesterday Aprilia Racing’s Aleix Espargaro finished third fastest ton the day but it was clear the Aprilia left some pace on the table as the team appears to be testing a number of upgrades on the 2024 RS-GP. The team stated they have been working on aerodynamic developments that they hope will give them an edge over the Ducati dominated grid come round 1.
It was a successful day for the Red Bull KTM riders as well. Brad Binder and Jack Miller look to continue their end of season form staying close to the top 5 riders. Binder was on pace but Miller fell behind a bit. The session was a complete shock however as the top 16 were separates by less than one second. With day two just hours away the riders will look to improve on today’s lap times and find optimal harmonization with their 2024 upgrades.
Full Qatar Test Day 1 Results