What Ducati and Pirro can learn from Jerez testing after Marc Marquez’s times.
Michele Pirro is well behind the pace set by Marc Marquez on Ducati’s 2027 prototype, but that gap is likely to close over the next nine months. Marc Marquez’s Jerez time was more than three seconds quicker than Michele Pirro’s.
Pirro posted a video from his test run at Jerez, showing laps around the 1:39 mark. That’s about 3.2 seconds off Marquez’s top time of 1:35.8 set at the same track last year.
It’s worth noting that Marquez and Quartararo both hit similar times during a fully rubbered-in Grand Prix weekend, while Pirro was riding on a less-used surface.
And with regular testing planned throughout the year, there’s every chance that gap will shrink even further by the start of the 2027 season. Early predictions had suggested these bikes would be much slower, but that doesn’t look so certain anymore.
Key Takeaways from the 2027 MotoGP Test at Jerez
Toprak Razgatlioglu took part in this week’s test, benefiting from Yamaha’s lower concessions ranking. Reports suggest he was using Michelin tyres as he continues to adjust to the new setup.
The three-time World Superbike champion is expected to play a significant role in Pirelli’s tyre development due to his extensive experience with both manufacturers.
Aprilia also drew attention with a bold new exhaust design. While they’ve recently led the way in aerodynamic innovation, this latest change is focused on improving engine power output.
MotoGP will align with Formula 1 by introducing sustainable fuels next season.
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