MotoGP DFS has been gaining attention among motorsport enthusiasts in Minnesota. This is because it allows you to interact directly with MotoGP. It lets you make fresh picks for every event and adjust your strategy. In MotoGP DFS, you select riders and then predict whether their finishing position will be higher or lower than what is projected.
MotoGP DFS is legal and available on platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks in Minnesota. These platform complies with all state gaming regulations to ensure fair play. In this guide, we will discuss the key steps to playing MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks. We will also walk you through creating an account, funding it, selecting riders, and choosing contests. We will highlight crucial strategies to increase your chances of winning in MotoGP DFS.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing MotoGP DFS in Minnesota in Underdog Fantasy
Getting started on MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy is straightforward. Follow the steps below:
Step 1 – Sign Up for Underdog Fantasy
You can create an account on Underdog Fantasy through the official website or download the mobile app. To sign up through the website:
VisitNXTbets to access the Underdog Fantasy website on your browser.
Click “Sign UP” in the upper-right corner of the homepage
Enter your details like username, valid email, secure and strong password.
Enter a promo code if available. Always check NXTbets for active promo codes to claim the Welcome bonus on your first deposit.
Underdog Fantasy will also require you to verify your identity in compliance with Minnesota regulations. The verification process is also simple. You will provide your full name, date of birth, address, and any identity document from Minnesota.
Once you set up your account, you will receive an email confirmation. Follow the instructions to activate your account fully.
Step 2 – Funding Your Account
With a fully verified account, you must fund your account to access the available contests. Below are the steps to deposit money in your account:
On the homepage, click “+” in the upper-right corner.
Select your preferred payment option. In Minnesota, you can use some e-wallets, debit cards, credit cards, PayPal, or bank transfers.
Enter the amount you wish to deposit. Look out for any deposit match bonuses to maximize your funds. Underdog Fantasy offers a 50% match on your first deposit.
Confirm your payment details and submit. The funds should reflect in your account instantly, except for bank transfers that take a few business days.
You can also access the “Deposit” option by clicking “Account” once logged in, then follow the rest of the steps to complete the transaction.
Step 3 – Finding MotoGP DFS Contests on Underdog Fantasy
Finding MotoGP DFS contests on Underdog Fantasy is simple. On the homepage, you can locate contests under Pick’em. For MotoGP DFS, you can play the higher/lower contest featured in the pick’em section. In higher/lower contests, you predict whether a rider will perform higher or lower than their projected finishing position.
Step 4 – Making Your MotoGP DFS Picks
Success in MotoGP DFS depends on the strength and ability of your picks. To build a more competitive lineup, evaluate every rider’s stats. Consider their recent performance data, such as lap times and finishing positions. This will give you invaluable insights into a rider’s track record. You should also consider the different track conditions and how riders perform under them. Every track has unique features, and riders perform differently on specific tracks. If a rider has a record of consistent positive performance on a similar track, they may be a strong choice for your lineup.
Underdog Fantasy allows you to make pre-game and in-game picks, so ensure you choose riders who fit your strategy.
Step 5 – Monitoring Your Picks and Winning Real Money
Once you submit your lineup, watch the race progress, paying attention to your riders’ performances. Also, check the real-time updates through Underdog Fantasy’s live feature. The rankings are updated regularly depending on the real-time events. If your lineup wins, you can claim your winnings, which will be ready for withdrawal from your account.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in PrizePicks
Playing MotoGP DFS in PrizePicks is similar to Underdog Fantasy except for a few different features. Here’s how to go about it:
Step 1: Register an Account
Like underdog Fantasy, you need an account to participate in MotoGP DFS contests in PrizePicks. To do this, visit PrizePick’s official website on your device. You can use your desktop or the mobile app available for both iOS and Android. Click the “Sign Up” button at the right corner of the home page. You will be redirected to a page where you can fill in your details like name, email address, and date of birth and provide a secure password.
For the promo code option, use our code “NXT” to enjoy up to a $50 instant cash bonus when you enter your first $5 contest. These bonuses are crucial since they give you extra cash to play with without risking a significant part of your bankroll.
You must verify your identity to set up your account fully. Therefore, ensure you turn on your location since the platform uses geolocation to verify your identity. Next, provide your details, like name and address, and then click the confirmation link via email.
Step 2: Deposit Money into Your Account
Next, you must fund your account to enter contests. PrizePicks allows the following deposit methods:
Apple Pay
Venmo
PayPal
Credit/Debit cards
Online Banking via AeroPay
To fund your account, locate the “+” button at the top right corner of the desktop or mobile app. Alternatively, you can navigate to the deposit page. Select your preferred payment method and follow the subsequent prompts to complete the transaction.
Step 3: Enter the MotoGP DFS Contest
To enter a contest, navigate to MotoGP in the lobby. Next, select at least two and a maximum of six players with up to 25x payouts. For each player, choose “More” or “Less” based on their projections, then select the type of contest format to participate in.
This platform has Pick’em and Pick’em arena contests. In Pick’em, you can either play Power Play or Flex. In Power Play, all your selections must be correct for you to win, while Flex allows a margin of error, so you may still win even if some of your selections are wrong.
On the other hand, in Pick’em Arena, you compete against other players and potentially win real money if you have the best lineup.
Once you select Power Play or Flex, enter your entry fee. You will notice that the default entry fee is $20; however, you can edit this to fit your interests and preferences. The minimum entry fee is typically $1. Click the “Submit Lineup” button to lock your entries.
Strategies for Winning MotoGP DFS in Minnesota
You require more than intuition to potentially win in MotoGP DFS. Having a strong strategy can give you a more competitive edge. Below are key considerations to keep in mind:
Research Rider Performance
Generally, consistently well-performing riders often offer more reliability. For instance, a rider who has been consistently finishing in the top three may provide good rewards. Look at every rider’s performance history, including aspects like lap times, finishing positions, penalties, and injuries. Such factors will give you insights into which riders to select for your lineup. Also, remember to check riders’ skills, strengths, and weaknesses, as these may impact their overall performance.
Track History
Having a good idea of the track history will also strengthen your strategy. Some riders perform exceptionally well on specific circuits. Riders who perform well on tight technical courses may not perform as well on fast tracks. If you notice that a specific rider has a consistent positive record on a particular track, selecting them for similar tracks may be a good move for your lineup.
Weather Conditions
Weather can drastically affect race results. High temperatures may make riders more exhausted easily. On the other hand, rain makes tracks wet and slippery. Such tracks may favor riders with excellent handling skills over high speeds. To navigate the challenges of weather conditions, research the race-day forecast and select riders with a history of good performance under such conditions.
Legal Considerations for Playing DFS in Minnesota
All in-state sports betting is illegal in Minnesota. However, the state does not have specific legislation regulating DFS. As a result, Minnesota residents continue to play DFS, including MotoGP DFS, in a gray area. Reputable platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks provide MotoGP DFS in Minnesota while ensuring fair play. These platforms typically verifies that you are at least 18 years old and reside within Minnesota to access the available MotoGP DFS contests. They also have responsible gaming features like self-exclusion tools and deposit limits to allow you to stay in control of your play.
Playing MotoGP DFS in Minnesota with NXTbets
NXTbets remains committed to promoting responsible MotoGP DFS playing in Minnesota. We have highlighted the essential steps and strategies to get you started on a strong foot. Whether new to daily fantasy sports or a seasoned MotoGP DFS player, this blog will enhance your play and increase your chances of success. We also offer reliable resources to enable you to play in an enjoyable and safe environment. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed of the updates and new trends in MotoGP. To get started with MotoGP DFS, visit NXTbets and start playing today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do Higher/Lower Contests Work in MotoGP DFS?
In Higher/Lower contests, you predict if a rider will perform higher or lower than their projected stats.
Are There Promo Codes for New Players in Minnesota?
Yes, Minnesota players can access exclusive promo codes through NXTbets to enjoy bonuses on their first deposits.
Can I Play Other Sports on Underdog Fantasy in Minnesota?
Yes. Underdog Fantasy offers DFS contests for other sports like Formula 1, NFL, NHL, NBA, MLB, Tennis, WNBA, and MMA. To access these contests, create an account on Underdog Fantasy through NXTbets.
How Can I Play Responsibly While Participating in DFS?
Set a clear deposit for every contest.
Only deposit what you can afford to lose.
Know when to stop playing.
Do not chase after your losses; take a break and adjust your strategy.
Manage your bankroll effectively.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
MotoGP officials and riders moved to overhaul start-line procedures and grid formation after a string of first-corner pile-ups culminated in a five-rider crash at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Jorge Martín admitted sole responsibility for the Balaton Park collision that collected Marco Bezzecchi, Fabio Di Giannantonio, Raúl Fernández and Fermín Aldeguer, and he was handed a double long-lap penalty for the next race. The incident followed an earlier violent turn-one crash in Barcelona that required Johann Zarco to undergo surgery, and the sequence of accidents has reignited debate about start-line safety, including whether holeshot and ride-height devices should be banned and whether resurfaced low-grip asphalt at Turn One contributed to the pileups.
Series officials and teams have opened several concrete proposals to reduce first-corner risk. Organizers agreed to increase the distance between the three starting positions on each row by three meters, a change scheduled to take effect at the German Grand Prix before the summer break. Trials have already been held of a two-rider-per-row formation, and Sky Italia and others have suggested testing an F1-style staggered start to give riders more room into Turn One. Chief Sporting Officer Carlos Ezpeleta said holeshot devices “will not be here in 2027” and indicated officials are discussing whether action on starting devices can be taken this year, with further formal decisions expected from governing bodies and race directors.
Stakeholders remain divided on causes and remedies. Jack Miller publicly urged the immediate removal of the front start device, saying Martín’s bike “jumped” when he tried to remove it and pointing to slippery new asphalt and higher approach speeds at Balaton as factors. Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola rejected the device theory and blamed rider error. Observers warned that wider grid separation could disproportionately disadvantage Martín because qualifying has been his biggest weakness this season. Former rider Virginio Ferrari cautioned that rule changes alone will not solve the problem and called for a broader safety effort through rider education, while officials continue investigations into the recent crashes and weigh a mix of procedural, technical and cultural responses.
MotoGP, the world’s leading motorcycle championship, draws fans from all over the world. It features top teams and riders across over twenty Grands Prix every season. To catch up with the live action beyond geographical divides, most fans continue to embrace streaming services and broadcasters that bring the action live on screen. As a MotoGP …
At the Sepang pre‑season test in early February, Yamaha’s new V4 YZR‑M1 program was disrupted by two incidents. Fabio Quartararo crashed late on the opening day at Turn 5, fracturing the middle finger of his right hand. In addition, his bike suffered an unexplained engine/electronics stoppage and was left dead on track, with engineers were unable to determine a definitive cause that evening.
With safety paramount, Yamaha closed its factory and Pramac garages and kept all six Yamaha machines, including those of Quartararo, Alex Rins, Jack Miller, Toprak Razgatlıoğlu, Augusto Fernández, and Andrea Dovizioso in the pits. This gave breathing room to the technical teams from Japan and Italy to carry out on‑site inspections and further factory diagnostics.
Technical director Max Bartolini and team management described the halt as a precaution while they sought confirmation from the factory. Paddock reporting said similar issues had been seen in earlier shakedowns, and some sources suggested overheating as a possible factor; others described the fault as an electronics stoppage, so accounts varied on the precise nature of the failure.
Overnight collaboration between Yamaha’s Italian and Japanese engineers produced a temporary fix that allowed the V4 machines to return to track on the final day of the Sepang test. The bikes were reported to be running with reduced power/RPM as a precaution. On the re‑entry morning Rins, Miller and Razgatlıoğlu completed a combined 74 laps, with Rins the quickest of the trio and 12th overall, 1.178 seconds off the morning pace set by Álex Márquez. Yamaha confirmed Quartararo would not ride again at Sepang and would return to Europe for medical checks. He is expected to target the next test in Buriram on February 21–22.
The interruption cost Yamaha valuable setup and development time on a completely redesigned V4 project introduced in 2025 and intended to run through the 2026 regulations year. Engineers stressed the importance of factory‑validated fixes before resuming full program activity. Team bosses including Paolo Pavesio and Massimo Meregalli said rider safety guided the decision to pause running, while the overnight fix underlined rapid mobilization between Yamaha’s bases to keep the V4 program on schedule. Although running resumed with mitigations, Yamaha’s Sepang test plan remained affected until diagnostics were completed and a clear, safe path forward was confirmed.
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.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in Minnesota
MotoGP DFS has been gaining attention among motorsport enthusiasts in Minnesota. This is because it allows you to interact directly with MotoGP. It lets you make fresh picks for every event and adjust your strategy. In MotoGP DFS, you select riders and then predict whether their finishing position will be higher or lower than what is projected.
MotoGP DFS is legal and available on platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks in Minnesota. These platform complies with all state gaming regulations to ensure fair play. In this guide, we will discuss the key steps to playing MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks. We will also walk you through creating an account, funding it, selecting riders, and choosing contests. We will highlight crucial strategies to increase your chances of winning in MotoGP DFS.
Step-by-Step Guide to Playing MotoGP DFS in Minnesota in Underdog Fantasy
Getting started on MotoGP DFS on Underdog Fantasy is straightforward. Follow the steps below:
Step 1 – Sign Up for Underdog Fantasy
You can create an account on Underdog Fantasy through the official website or download the mobile app. To sign up through the website:
Step 2 – Funding Your Account
With a fully verified account, you must fund your account to access the available contests. Below are the steps to deposit money in your account:
You can also access the “Deposit” option by clicking “Account” once logged in, then follow the rest of the steps to complete the transaction.
Step 3 – Finding MotoGP DFS Contests on Underdog Fantasy
Finding MotoGP DFS contests on Underdog Fantasy is simple. On the homepage, you can locate contests under Pick’em. For MotoGP DFS, you can play the higher/lower contest featured in the pick’em section. In higher/lower contests, you predict whether a rider will perform higher or lower than their projected finishing position.
Step 4 – Making Your MotoGP DFS Picks
Success in MotoGP DFS depends on the strength and ability of your picks. To build a more competitive lineup, evaluate every rider’s stats. Consider their recent performance data, such as lap times and finishing positions. This will give you invaluable insights into a rider’s track record. You should also consider the different track conditions and how riders perform under them. Every track has unique features, and riders perform differently on specific tracks. If a rider has a record of consistent positive performance on a similar track, they may be a strong choice for your lineup.
Underdog Fantasy allows you to make pre-game and in-game picks, so ensure you choose riders who fit your strategy.
Step 5 – Monitoring Your Picks and Winning Real Money
Once you submit your lineup, watch the race progress, paying attention to your riders’ performances. Also, check the real-time updates through Underdog Fantasy’s live feature. The rankings are updated regularly depending on the real-time events. If your lineup wins, you can claim your winnings, which will be ready for withdrawal from your account.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in PrizePicks
Playing MotoGP DFS in PrizePicks is similar to Underdog Fantasy except for a few different features. Here’s how to go about it:
Step 1: Register an Account
Like underdog Fantasy, you need an account to participate in MotoGP DFS contests in PrizePicks. To do this, visit PrizePick’s official website on your device. You can use your desktop or the mobile app available for both iOS and Android. Click the “Sign Up” button at the right corner of the home page. You will be redirected to a page where you can fill in your details like name, email address, and date of birth and provide a secure password.
For the promo code option, use our code “NXT” to enjoy up to a $50 instant cash bonus when you enter your first $5 contest. These bonuses are crucial since they give you extra cash to play with without risking a significant part of your bankroll.
You must verify your identity to set up your account fully. Therefore, ensure you turn on your location since the platform uses geolocation to verify your identity. Next, provide your details, like name and address, and then click the confirmation link via email.
Step 2: Deposit Money into Your Account
Next, you must fund your account to enter contests. PrizePicks allows the following deposit methods:
To fund your account, locate the “+” button at the top right corner of the desktop or mobile app. Alternatively, you can navigate to the deposit page. Select your preferred payment method and follow the subsequent prompts to complete the transaction.
Step 3: Enter the MotoGP DFS Contest
To enter a contest, navigate to MotoGP in the lobby. Next, select at least two and a maximum of six players with up to 25x payouts. For each player, choose “More” or “Less” based on their projections, then select the type of contest format to participate in.
This platform has Pick’em and Pick’em arena contests. In Pick’em, you can either play Power Play or Flex. In Power Play, all your selections must be correct for you to win, while Flex allows a margin of error, so you may still win even if some of your selections are wrong.
On the other hand, in Pick’em Arena, you compete against other players and potentially win real money if you have the best lineup.
Once you select Power Play or Flex, enter your entry fee. You will notice that the default entry fee is $20; however, you can edit this to fit your interests and preferences. The minimum entry fee is typically $1. Click the “Submit Lineup” button to lock your entries.
Strategies for Winning MotoGP DFS in Minnesota
You require more than intuition to potentially win in MotoGP DFS. Having a strong strategy can give you a more competitive edge. Below are key considerations to keep in mind:
Research Rider Performance
Generally, consistently well-performing riders often offer more reliability. For instance, a rider who has been consistently finishing in the top three may provide good rewards. Look at every rider’s performance history, including aspects like lap times, finishing positions, penalties, and injuries. Such factors will give you insights into which riders to select for your lineup. Also, remember to check riders’ skills, strengths, and weaknesses, as these may impact their overall performance.
Track History
Having a good idea of the track history will also strengthen your strategy. Some riders perform exceptionally well on specific circuits. Riders who perform well on tight technical courses may not perform as well on fast tracks. If you notice that a specific rider has a consistent positive record on a particular track, selecting them for similar tracks may be a good move for your lineup.
Weather Conditions
Weather can drastically affect race results. High temperatures may make riders more exhausted easily. On the other hand, rain makes tracks wet and slippery. Such tracks may favor riders with excellent handling skills over high speeds. To navigate the challenges of weather conditions, research the race-day forecast and select riders with a history of good performance under such conditions.
Legal Considerations for Playing DFS in Minnesota
All in-state sports betting is illegal in Minnesota. However, the state does not have specific legislation regulating DFS. As a result, Minnesota residents continue to play DFS, including MotoGP DFS, in a gray area. Reputable platforms like Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks provide MotoGP DFS in Minnesota while ensuring fair play. These platforms typically verifies that you are at least 18 years old and reside within Minnesota to access the available MotoGP DFS contests. They also have responsible gaming features like self-exclusion tools and deposit limits to allow you to stay in control of your play.
Playing MotoGP DFS in Minnesota with NXTbets
NXTbets remains committed to promoting responsible MotoGP DFS playing in Minnesota. We have highlighted the essential steps and strategies to get you started on a strong foot. Whether new to daily fantasy sports or a seasoned MotoGP DFS player, this blog will enhance your play and increase your chances of success. We also offer reliable resources to enable you to play in an enjoyable and safe environment. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed of the updates and new trends in MotoGP. To get started with MotoGP DFS, visit NXTbets and start playing today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In Higher/Lower contests, you predict if a rider will perform higher or lower than their projected stats.
Yes, Minnesota players can access exclusive promo codes through NXTbets to enjoy bonuses on their first deposits.
Yes. Underdog Fantasy offers DFS contests for other sports like Formula 1, NFL, NHL, NBA, MLB, Tennis, WNBA, and MMA. To access these contests, create an account on Underdog Fantasy through NXTbets.
Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Related Posts
Ezpeleta: holeshot devices out by 2027, action could come sooner
MotoGP officials and riders moved to overhaul start-line procedures and grid formation after a string of first-corner pile-ups culminated in a five-rider crash at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Jorge Martín admitted sole responsibility for the Balaton Park collision that collected Marco Bezzecchi, Fabio Di Giannantonio, Raúl Fernández and Fermín Aldeguer, and he was handed a double long-lap penalty for the next race. The incident followed an earlier violent turn-one crash in Barcelona that required Johann Zarco to undergo surgery, and the sequence of accidents has reignited debate about start-line safety, including whether holeshot and ride-height devices should be banned and whether resurfaced low-grip asphalt at Turn One contributed to the pileups.
Series officials and teams have opened several concrete proposals to reduce first-corner risk. Organizers agreed to increase the distance between the three starting positions on each row by three meters, a change scheduled to take effect at the German Grand Prix before the summer break. Trials have already been held of a two-rider-per-row formation, and Sky Italia and others have suggested testing an F1-style staggered start to give riders more room into Turn One. Chief Sporting Officer Carlos Ezpeleta said holeshot devices “will not be here in 2027” and indicated officials are discussing whether action on starting devices can be taken this year, with further formal decisions expected from governing bodies and race directors.
Stakeholders remain divided on causes and remedies. Jack Miller publicly urged the immediate removal of the front start device, saying Martín’s bike “jumped” when he tried to remove it and pointing to slippery new asphalt and higher approach speeds at Balaton as factors. Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola rejected the device theory and blamed rider error. Observers warned that wider grid separation could disproportionately disadvantage Martín because qualifying has been his biggest weakness this season. Former rider Virginio Ferrari cautioned that rule changes alone will not solve the problem and called for a broader safety effort through rider education, while officials continue investigations into the recent crashes and weigh a mix of procedural, technical and cultural responses.
Where to Watch MotoGP
MotoGP, the world’s leading motorcycle championship, draws fans from all over the world. It features top teams and riders across over twenty Grands Prix every season. To catch up with the live action beyond geographical divides, most fans continue to embrace streaming services and broadcasters that bring the action live on screen. As a MotoGP …
Yamaha Keeps Six Riders in Pits Amid Safety Probe
At the Sepang pre‑season test in early February, Yamaha’s new V4 YZR‑M1 program was disrupted by two incidents. Fabio Quartararo crashed late on the opening day at Turn 5, fracturing the middle finger of his right hand. In addition, his bike suffered an unexplained engine/electronics stoppage and was left dead on track, with engineers were unable to determine a definitive cause that evening.
With safety paramount, Yamaha closed its factory and Pramac garages and kept all six Yamaha machines, including those of Quartararo, Alex Rins, Jack Miller, Toprak Razgatlıoğlu, Augusto Fernández, and Andrea Dovizioso in the pits. This gave breathing room to the technical teams from Japan and Italy to carry out on‑site inspections and further factory diagnostics.
Technical director Max Bartolini and team management described the halt as a precaution while they sought confirmation from the factory. Paddock reporting said similar issues had been seen in earlier shakedowns, and some sources suggested overheating as a possible factor; others described the fault as an electronics stoppage, so accounts varied on the precise nature of the failure.
Overnight collaboration between Yamaha’s Italian and Japanese engineers produced a temporary fix that allowed the V4 machines to return to track on the final day of the Sepang test. The bikes were reported to be running with reduced power/RPM as a precaution. On the re‑entry morning Rins, Miller and Razgatlıoğlu completed a combined 74 laps, with Rins the quickest of the trio and 12th overall, 1.178 seconds off the morning pace set by Álex Márquez. Yamaha confirmed Quartararo would not ride again at Sepang and would return to Europe for medical checks. He is expected to target the next test in Buriram on February 21–22.
The interruption cost Yamaha valuable setup and development time on a completely redesigned V4 project introduced in 2025 and intended to run through the 2026 regulations year. Engineers stressed the importance of factory‑validated fixes before resuming full program activity. Team bosses including Paolo Pavesio and Massimo Meregalli said rider safety guided the decision to pause running, while the overnight fix underlined rapid mobilization between Yamaha’s bases to keep the V4 program on schedule. Although running resumed with mitigations, Yamaha’s Sepang test plan remained affected until diagnostics were completed and a clear, safe path forward was confirmed.
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.