With only two races left in the 2024 season, MotoGP heads to Malaysia, where the title race between Jorge Martin and Francesco Bagnaia reaches a critical juncture. Bagnaia’s skillful wet-weather win in Thailand has narrowed Martin’s championship lead to just 17 points. As the riders prepare for the fast-paced Sepang International Circuit, all eyes are on the Ducati and Prima Pramac riders in this intense championship fight. This preview offers detailed insights and betting analysis ahead of the Malaysian GP.
After reading, check out our partner sportsbooks to get valuable promotions and place your bets.
In addition to traditional sports betting on MotoGP, the Malaysian GP has Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) Real Money Gaming available in a Pick’Em style on Underdog. Although “fantasy games” might seem misleading, DFS is a significant and growing category within legal sports wagering. MotoGP fans are allowed to legally make better/worse picks with real money gaming in 30 states, including California, Texas & Wisconsin where traditional sports betting is currently illegal.
The Malaysian GP will be held at the Sepang International Circuit from November 1-3, 2024. Known for its long straights and challenging hairpins, Sepang pushes riders to balance high speeds with technical precision. The main race is scheduled for Sunday, November 3, and fans can check the official MotoGP website for the full schedule, including practice and qualifying sessions.
To catch every thrilling moment of the Malaysian Grand Prix as it unfolds, check out MotoGP VideoPass for live coverage, ensuring you don’t miss a single second of the drama. For the latest odds and previous results, be sure to check NXTbets.
Best Bets and Picks for the MotoGP Australian GP
Top Picks and Bets
Driver
Event Winner
$20 Payout
Francesco Bagnaia
+125
$45.00
Jorge Martin
+260
$72.00
Marc Marquez
+400
$100.00
Francesco Bagnaia (+125)
Bagnaia’s recent win in Thailand was his ninth of the season, showcasing his dominance in wet and dry conditions alike. Known for his smooth handling and ability to manage tire wear, Bagnaia has excelled on high-speed circuits similar to Sepang. With his sights set on overtaking Martin, Bagnaia’s precision and race-day composure make him a formidable contender. Sepang’s blend of fast corners and technical sections is ideal for Bagnaia’s balanced style, and if he can leverage his momentum from Thailand, he’s well-positioned for another victory.
Jorge Martin (+260)
Despite losing ground to Bagnaia in Thailand, Martin’s consistency has kept him at the top of the standings. He’s demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout the season, especially in tricky conditions. Martin’s aggressive start and ability to lead through early laps make him a serious threat at Sepang, where maintaining pace on the long straights is crucial. If he can avoid unforced errors, Martin is likely to give Bagnaia a tough challenge, as he pushes to retain his lead going into the final race.
Marc Marquez (+400)
Marquez has proven his mettle this season, showing flashes of brilliance, including his fight for second place in Thailand before a crash ended his chances. With little to lose in the standings, Marquez can race freely, making him an exciting wildcard pick at Sepang. Known for his aggressive moves and ability to capitalize on rivals’ mistakes, Marquez could shake up the podium if the frontrunners stumble. If the conditions become unpredictable, Marquez’s extensive experience could give him the edge.
Outsider Bets
Driver
Event Winner
$20 Payout
Enea Bastianini
+1800
$380.00
Pedro Acosta
+1800
$380.00
Alex Marquez
+2500
$520.00
Enea Bastianini (+1800)
Bastianini has had a mixed season but consistently shows potential to upset the frontrunners. His adaptability and strong late-race pace make him an intriguing pick for Sepang, where tire management and patience are key. Known for his aggressive style, Bastianini could capitalize on any early skirmishes among the leaders, positioning himself as a podium contender.
Pedro Acosta (+1800)
Acosta’s impressive rookie season continues, with a podium finish in Thailand reaffirming his competitiveness. Though he lacks experience on Sepang’s unique layout, Acosta’s fearless approach and rapid learning curve make him a high-reward pick. If he can stay composed and avoid rookie mistakes, he has the potential to battle with the top riders, especially as the season nears its end.
Alex Marquez (+2500)
Alex Marquez finished in the top ten in Thailand and has shown resilience in tough races this season. Sepang’s long straights and demanding corners will test him, but Marquez’s steady improvement makes him an outsider worth considering. If he can secure a good start and avoid the mid-pack chaos, Marquez could find himself in contention for a top-five finish or better.
Expert Pick for the MotoGP Malaysian GP
Francesco Bagnaia is our Expert Pick for the Malaysian GP. His experience, combined with his recent victory in Thailand, gives him an edge in the high-stakes atmosphere of Sepang. With championship pressure mounting, Bagnaia’s calm approach and mastery of challenging circuits make him the top choice to close in on Martin’s lead.
Where to Bet on MotoGP
Visit our partner sportsbooksto access special deals that will elevate your betting experience as you anticipate the upcoming Malaysian GP. If you’re a newbie in the world of MotoGP betting, our comprehensive MotoGP Betting Guide is a must-read. Remember to enjoy the race and make your betting choices wisely. Betting responsibly ensures the fun lasts all season long.
The Malaysian GP promises intense battles as the season heads into its final rounds. With Bagnaia and Martin both gunning for the championship, Sepang’s challenging track will push every rider to their limits. Fans and bettors should prepare for an electrifying race weekend, as MotoGP’s best bring their all to this marquee showdown.
21+ Please refer to Affiliated Operators’s T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Ducati has decided to move 21-year-old Fermin Aldeguer from Gresini to Valentino Rossi’s VR46 squad for 2027, a manufacturer-driven reshuffle that includes factory machinery, a new livery and a contract option extended through 2028. Aldeguer, the 2025 Rookie of the Year who finished eighth overall and scored a Grand Prix victory in Indonesia, was reportedly denied a promised factory bike for 2026 and is said to have preferred to stay at Gresini. VR46 team principal Uccio Salucci confirmed interest at the United States GP, calling Aldeguer “a fantastic rider,” while Ducati’s activation of VR46’s factory-supported option for 2027 was a decisive factor in the move.
Gresini owner Nadia Padovani reacted strongly to the transfer, with sources saying the switch left her team needing two riders for 2027 after Alex Márquez’s expected departure to KTM. Padovani publicly rejected the idea that Ducati could force Nicolo Bulega onto Gresini, saying she would only sign Bulega if he were the best option; Bulega has been linked to MotoGP interest and is noted as a 26-year-old World Superbike front-runner with a dominant start to his season. Faced with a constrained pool of suitable replacements and limited manufacturer alternatives, Gresini briefly considered leaving Ducati and held talks with Honda and Aprilia, but after assessing realistic options moved toward renewing its Ducati deal.
Reports name Enea Bastianini and Moto2 prospect Daniel Holgado among riders linked to Gresini’s reorganization. The episode underscored the growing influence of manufacturers in shaping satellite-team lineups and the strategic value of factory support: Ducati reportedly mediated the rivalry between the teams as shifting alliances and contract timing reshaped bargaining power, and observers noted that a single high-profile rider movement can force rapid strategy changes in a market where top-level riders are scarce and factory backing remains a decisive advantage in MotoGP’s satellite ecosystem.
VR46 was close to re-signing with Ducati for the 2027 season despite exploratory interest from Aprilia. At a recent presentation in Rome, team principal Alessio “Uccio” Salucci said, “I never considered leaving Ducati,” and described talks with Aprilia as cordial. Aprilia’s outreach over the winter was led by CEO Massimo Rivola; Salucci told Motorsport.com he spoke with Rivola “two or three times.” Valentino Rossi also signaled confidence in continuing with Ducati as VR46 begins work toward a 2027 bike.
The team said it was on the verge of finalizing a multi‑year supply deal taking effect in 2027, with one report saying a three‑year 2027–2029 contract was expected to be finalized soon. Salucci described the paperwork as “very close” with only a few “small details” remaining, but warned a public announcement could be delayed while Ducati, Aprilia, Yamaha, KTM and teams negotiate a new manufacturers’/constructors’ agreement and broader commercial terms with MotoGP. Observers said the timing and final form of any 2027 supply arrangement remained contingent on those wider manufacturer–MotoGP talks and planned technical changes for 2027, including the move to the 850cc/Pirelli era.
Background context stressed VR46’s long association with Ducati. The team entered the premier class with Luca Marini, though sources differ on whether that step came in 2021 or 2022, and it replaced Pramac as Ducati’s main satellite team in 2025. Sources also differ on when formal factory support began (reports cite 2024 or 2025), but it is reported that Fabio Di Giannantonio has received the latest Ducati machinery and been run on factory‑spec equipment, while Franco Morbidelli has used a year‑old machine within the VR46 operation. VR46 has recorded race wins on the Desmosedici (most recently Marco Bezzecchi in 2023). Di Giannantonio and Morbidelli are out of contract at the end of this season, and the team reportedly pursued Pedro Acosta before he joined the official Ducati Lenovo squad.
Dorna Sports confirmed a revised MotoGP Race Direction leadership lineup for the 2026 season, appointing Graham Webber as MotoGP Race Director and naming Jack Gorst as deputy Race Director while long-time MotoGP Race Director Mike Webb moves into a newly created Race Direction Coordinator role. Webb will remain based on site at Grands Prix and in the control room, and will serve as IRTA representative and secretary. The three will jointly lead a centralized Race Direction team that will operate across the 22-round 2026 calendar.
The reshuffle preserves continuity while introducing new primary decision-makers: Webber, who had served as deputy race director and previously directed Moto2, Moto3 and MotoE race direction, will helm MotoGP race direction in 2026; Webb has led MotoGP race direction since 2012 and maintained the post through the FIM stewards restructuring after the 2015 Sepang fallout. Jack Gorst, who joins the Event Management Committee alongside Webber, will serve as deputy. The Race Direction remit covers all Grand Prix classes and other on-track competitions staged at MotoGP events, including the newly listed Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup.
Dorna and the FIM also confirmed the wider Race Direction and governance team: Bartolome Alfonso will continue as FIM representative and Safety Officer, Loris Capirossi as MotoGP SEG representative, and Danny Aldridge remains GP Technical Director. The FIM MotoGP stewards panel will be chaired by Simon Crafar, with Andrés Somolinos as FIM MotoGP Chief Steward and Tamara Matko serving as a steward. The FIM Appeals Panel is composed of Ralph Bohnhorst, Raffaele De Fabritiis, Stuart Higgs and Franco Uncini, with Paul Duparc and Paul King named as reserves. Event Management Committee members include Giancarlo di Filippo (FIM Medical Director) and Dominique Hebrard (FIM GP Technical Representative). The Grand Prix Commission is led by MotoGP SEG CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta and the FIM Permanent Bureau by FIM President Jorge Viegas. Dorna noted the 22-round calendar opens Feb. 27–Mar. 1 at Chang International Circuit in Buriram, with a final pre-season test the weekend before and round two scheduled Mar. 20–22 at the Goiânia International Racetrack Ayrton Senna following circuit upgrades.
Ducati split its Le Mans garage by running a new 2026 side fairing on Pecco Bagnaia, Álex Márquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio, while Marc Márquez reverted to GP25-spec 2025 side-fairing elements. Bagnaia said Ducati were experiencing “a pretty difficult time,” but that progress from the Jerez test carried over to Le Mans and he was “much happier” with the new fairing because he could push and control the tires, even as the bike still lacked some turning and stopping performance.
On-track outcomes reflected the split. Bagnaia ran the new fairing and finished third on Friday despite a late crash that produced yellow flags and denied Marc Márquez a final flying lap, leaving Márquez 13th in practice and forced into Q1. Márquez said he feels “considerably slower” on the GP26, lacks front-end feel in fast and left-hand corners and described his Q1 position as “unlucky,” though he reported feeling better through the day. Álex Márquez and Di Giannantonio used the 2026 fairing and progressed directly to Q2, and three Ducati riders filled three of the top four spots on the timesheets. Weather forecasts pointing to a high chance of rain could further shape setup choices before qualifying.
Ducati described the approach as iterative development, testing the new aero on multiple riders while keeping rider-specific setups available. Team manager Davide Tardozzi said “the squad follows each rider’s preferences,” and Ducati noted the split at Le Mans highlighted how rider size, riding style and recent form influence technical direction. Some reports suggested limited units might have led the squad to save the package for Barcelona, and the weekend will provide immediate feedback on whether the 2026 side-fairing delivers the expected turning gains and helps Ducati regain consistent front-running form.
Best Bets: MotoGP Malaysian GP 2024 Pre-Event Odds Analysis
With only two races left in the 2024 season, MotoGP heads to Malaysia, where the title race between Jorge Martin and Francesco Bagnaia reaches a critical juncture. Bagnaia’s skillful wet-weather win in Thailand has narrowed Martin’s championship lead to just 17 points. As the riders prepare for the fast-paced Sepang International Circuit, all eyes are on the Ducati and Prima Pramac riders in this intense championship fight. This preview offers detailed insights and betting analysis ahead of the Malaysian GP.
After reading, check out our partner sportsbooks to get valuable promotions and place your bets.
In addition to traditional sports betting on MotoGP, the Malaysian GP has Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) Real Money Gaming available in a Pick’Em style on Underdog. Although “fantasy games” might seem misleading, DFS is a significant and growing category within legal sports wagering. MotoGP fans are allowed to legally make better/worse picks with real money gaming in 30 states, including California, Texas & Wisconsin where traditional sports betting is currently illegal.
Schedule and How to Watch the MotoGP Malaysian GP
The Malaysian GP will be held at the Sepang International Circuit from November 1-3, 2024. Known for its long straights and challenging hairpins, Sepang pushes riders to balance high speeds with technical precision. The main race is scheduled for Sunday, November 3, and fans can check the official MotoGP website for the full schedule, including practice and qualifying sessions.
To catch every thrilling moment of the Malaysian Grand Prix as it unfolds, check out MotoGP VideoPass for live coverage, ensuring you don’t miss a single second of the drama. For the latest odds and previous results, be sure to check NXTbets.
Best Bets and Picks for the MotoGP Australian GP
Top Picks and Bets
Driver
Event Winner
$20 Payout
Francesco Bagnaia
+125
$45.00
Jorge Martin
+260
$72.00
Marc Marquez
+400
$100.00
Francesco Bagnaia (+125)
Bagnaia’s recent win in Thailand was his ninth of the season, showcasing his dominance in wet and dry conditions alike. Known for his smooth handling and ability to manage tire wear, Bagnaia has excelled on high-speed circuits similar to Sepang. With his sights set on overtaking Martin, Bagnaia’s precision and race-day composure make him a formidable contender. Sepang’s blend of fast corners and technical sections is ideal for Bagnaia’s balanced style, and if he can leverage his momentum from Thailand, he’s well-positioned for another victory.
Jorge Martin (+260)
Despite losing ground to Bagnaia in Thailand, Martin’s consistency has kept him at the top of the standings. He’s demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout the season, especially in tricky conditions. Martin’s aggressive start and ability to lead through early laps make him a serious threat at Sepang, where maintaining pace on the long straights is crucial. If he can avoid unforced errors, Martin is likely to give Bagnaia a tough challenge, as he pushes to retain his lead going into the final race.
Marc Marquez (+400)
Marquez has proven his mettle this season, showing flashes of brilliance, including his fight for second place in Thailand before a crash ended his chances. With little to lose in the standings, Marquez can race freely, making him an exciting wildcard pick at Sepang. Known for his aggressive moves and ability to capitalize on rivals’ mistakes, Marquez could shake up the podium if the frontrunners stumble. If the conditions become unpredictable, Marquez’s extensive experience could give him the edge.
Outsider Bets
Driver
Event Winner
$20 Payout
Enea Bastianini
+1800
$380.00
Pedro Acosta
+1800
$380.00
Alex Marquez
+2500
$520.00
Enea Bastianini (+1800)
Bastianini has had a mixed season but consistently shows potential to upset the frontrunners. His adaptability and strong late-race pace make him an intriguing pick for Sepang, where tire management and patience are key. Known for his aggressive style, Bastianini could capitalize on any early skirmishes among the leaders, positioning himself as a podium contender.
Pedro Acosta (+1800)
Acosta’s impressive rookie season continues, with a podium finish in Thailand reaffirming his competitiveness. Though he lacks experience on Sepang’s unique layout, Acosta’s fearless approach and rapid learning curve make him a high-reward pick. If he can stay composed and avoid rookie mistakes, he has the potential to battle with the top riders, especially as the season nears its end.
Alex Marquez (+2500)
Alex Marquez finished in the top ten in Thailand and has shown resilience in tough races this season. Sepang’s long straights and demanding corners will test him, but Marquez’s steady improvement makes him an outsider worth considering. If he can secure a good start and avoid the mid-pack chaos, Marquez could find himself in contention for a top-five finish or better.
Expert Pick for the MotoGP Malaysian GP
Francesco Bagnaia is our Expert Pick for the Malaysian GP. His experience, combined with his recent victory in Thailand, gives him an edge in the high-stakes atmosphere of Sepang. With championship pressure mounting, Bagnaia’s calm approach and mastery of challenging circuits make him the top choice to close in on Martin’s lead.
Where to Bet on MotoGP
Visit our partner sportsbooks to access special deals that will elevate your betting experience as you anticipate the upcoming Malaysian GP. If you’re a newbie in the world of MotoGP betting, our comprehensive MotoGP Betting Guide is a must-read. Remember to enjoy the race and make your betting choices wisely. Betting responsibly ensures the fun lasts all season long.
The Malaysian GP promises intense battles as the season heads into its final rounds. With Bagnaia and Martin both gunning for the championship, Sepang’s challenging track will push every rider to their limits. Fans and bettors should prepare for an electrifying race weekend, as MotoGP’s best bring their all to this marquee showdown.
21+ Please refer to Affiliated Operators’s T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Related Posts
Ducati moves Aldeguer to VR46, increasing Gresini tensions
Ducati has decided to move 21-year-old Fermin Aldeguer from Gresini to Valentino Rossi’s VR46 squad for 2027, a manufacturer-driven reshuffle that includes factory machinery, a new livery and a contract option extended through 2028. Aldeguer, the 2025 Rookie of the Year who finished eighth overall and scored a Grand Prix victory in Indonesia, was reportedly denied a promised factory bike for 2026 and is said to have preferred to stay at Gresini. VR46 team principal Uccio Salucci confirmed interest at the United States GP, calling Aldeguer “a fantastic rider,” while Ducati’s activation of VR46’s factory-supported option for 2027 was a decisive factor in the move.
Gresini owner Nadia Padovani reacted strongly to the transfer, with sources saying the switch left her team needing two riders for 2027 after Alex Márquez’s expected departure to KTM. Padovani publicly rejected the idea that Ducati could force Nicolo Bulega onto Gresini, saying she would only sign Bulega if he were the best option; Bulega has been linked to MotoGP interest and is noted as a 26-year-old World Superbike front-runner with a dominant start to his season. Faced with a constrained pool of suitable replacements and limited manufacturer alternatives, Gresini briefly considered leaving Ducati and held talks with Honda and Aprilia, but after assessing realistic options moved toward renewing its Ducati deal.
Reports name Enea Bastianini and Moto2 prospect Daniel Holgado among riders linked to Gresini’s reorganization. The episode underscored the growing influence of manufacturers in shaping satellite-team lineups and the strategic value of factory support: Ducati reportedly mediated the rivalry between the teams as shifting alliances and contract timing reshaped bargaining power, and observers noted that a single high-profile rider movement can force rapid strategy changes in a market where top-level riders are scarce and factory backing remains a decisive advantage in MotoGP’s satellite ecosystem.
VR46 nears multi-year Ducati supply deal
VR46 was close to re-signing with Ducati for the 2027 season despite exploratory interest from Aprilia. At a recent presentation in Rome, team principal Alessio “Uccio” Salucci said, “I never considered leaving Ducati,” and described talks with Aprilia as cordial. Aprilia’s outreach over the winter was led by CEO Massimo Rivola; Salucci told Motorsport.com he spoke with Rivola “two or three times.” Valentino Rossi also signaled confidence in continuing with Ducati as VR46 begins work toward a 2027 bike.
The team said it was on the verge of finalizing a multi‑year supply deal taking effect in 2027, with one report saying a three‑year 2027–2029 contract was expected to be finalized soon. Salucci described the paperwork as “very close” with only a few “small details” remaining, but warned a public announcement could be delayed while Ducati, Aprilia, Yamaha, KTM and teams negotiate a new manufacturers’/constructors’ agreement and broader commercial terms with MotoGP. Observers said the timing and final form of any 2027 supply arrangement remained contingent on those wider manufacturer–MotoGP talks and planned technical changes for 2027, including the move to the 850cc/Pirelli era.
Background context stressed VR46’s long association with Ducati. The team entered the premier class with Luca Marini, though sources differ on whether that step came in 2021 or 2022, and it replaced Pramac as Ducati’s main satellite team in 2025. Sources also differ on when formal factory support began (reports cite 2024 or 2025), but it is reported that Fabio Di Giannantonio has received the latest Ducati machinery and been run on factory‑spec equipment, while Franco Morbidelli has used a year‑old machine within the VR46 operation. VR46 has recorded race wins on the Desmosedici (most recently Marco Bezzecchi in 2023). Di Giannantonio and Morbidelli are out of contract at the end of this season, and the team reportedly pursued Pedro Acosta before he joined the official Ducati Lenovo squad.
Graham Webber named MotoGP Race Director for 2026
Dorna Sports confirmed a revised MotoGP Race Direction leadership lineup for the 2026 season, appointing Graham Webber as MotoGP Race Director and naming Jack Gorst as deputy Race Director while long-time MotoGP Race Director Mike Webb moves into a newly created Race Direction Coordinator role. Webb will remain based on site at Grands Prix and in the control room, and will serve as IRTA representative and secretary. The three will jointly lead a centralized Race Direction team that will operate across the 22-round 2026 calendar.
The reshuffle preserves continuity while introducing new primary decision-makers: Webber, who had served as deputy race director and previously directed Moto2, Moto3 and MotoE race direction, will helm MotoGP race direction in 2026; Webb has led MotoGP race direction since 2012 and maintained the post through the FIM stewards restructuring after the 2015 Sepang fallout. Jack Gorst, who joins the Event Management Committee alongside Webber, will serve as deputy. The Race Direction remit covers all Grand Prix classes and other on-track competitions staged at MotoGP events, including the newly listed Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup.
Dorna and the FIM also confirmed the wider Race Direction and governance team: Bartolome Alfonso will continue as FIM representative and Safety Officer, Loris Capirossi as MotoGP SEG representative, and Danny Aldridge remains GP Technical Director. The FIM MotoGP stewards panel will be chaired by Simon Crafar, with Andrés Somolinos as FIM MotoGP Chief Steward and Tamara Matko serving as a steward. The FIM Appeals Panel is composed of Ralph Bohnhorst, Raffaele De Fabritiis, Stuart Higgs and Franco Uncini, with Paul Duparc and Paul King named as reserves. Event Management Committee members include Giancarlo di Filippo (FIM Medical Director) and Dominique Hebrard (FIM GP Technical Representative). The Grand Prix Commission is led by MotoGP SEG CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta and the FIM Permanent Bureau by FIM President Jorge Viegas. Dorna noted the 22-round calendar opens Feb. 27–Mar. 1 at Chang International Circuit in Buriram, with a final pre-season test the weekend before and round two scheduled Mar. 20–22 at the Goiânia International Racetrack Ayrton Senna following circuit upgrades.
Ducati split at Le Mans as 2026 fairing forces rider setups
Ducati split its Le Mans garage by running a new 2026 side fairing on Pecco Bagnaia, Álex Márquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio, while Marc Márquez reverted to GP25-spec 2025 side-fairing elements. Bagnaia said Ducati were experiencing “a pretty difficult time,” but that progress from the Jerez test carried over to Le Mans and he was “much happier” with the new fairing because he could push and control the tires, even as the bike still lacked some turning and stopping performance.
On-track outcomes reflected the split. Bagnaia ran the new fairing and finished third on Friday despite a late crash that produced yellow flags and denied Marc Márquez a final flying lap, leaving Márquez 13th in practice and forced into Q1. Márquez said he feels “considerably slower” on the GP26, lacks front-end feel in fast and left-hand corners and described his Q1 position as “unlucky,” though he reported feeling better through the day. Álex Márquez and Di Giannantonio used the 2026 fairing and progressed directly to Q2, and three Ducati riders filled three of the top four spots on the timesheets. Weather forecasts pointing to a high chance of rain could further shape setup choices before qualifying.
Ducati described the approach as iterative development, testing the new aero on multiple riders while keeping rider-specific setups available. Team manager Davide Tardozzi said “the squad follows each rider’s preferences,” and Ducati noted the split at Le Mans highlighted how rider size, riding style and recent form influence technical direction. Some reports suggested limited units might have led the squad to save the package for Barcelona, and the weekend will provide immediate feedback on whether the 2026 side-fairing delivers the expected turning gains and helps Ducati regain consistent front-running form.