MotoGP will stage a semi-official shakedown at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit from Jan 29–31. It is the first on-track running since the Valencia post-season test in 2025. The circuit will be open each day from 10:00 to 18:00 local time, giving participants up to eight hours daily to perform systems checks, evaluate updated bikes and collect early setup data ahead of the main collective test. Media access is tightly limited to the paddock and service road, and no live coverage is planned; motogp.com will publish daily round-ups instead.

The entry list is reduced after Honda moved from concession band D to C, a change that excludes Luca Marini and Joan Mir and leaves only a small group of full-season riders expected on track. The full-time riders most likely to attend include factory Yamahas Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins; Pramac riders Jack Miller and Toprak Razgatlioglu; and rookie Diogo Moreira, who is expected to run on the LCR Honda. Razgatlioglu is also classified as a rookie.

Yamaha, which holds Rank D concessions, will be a focal point: the factory is bringing a significant new V4 iteration with a redesigned frame and aero package developed with feedback from its four affiliated riders. Toprak Razgatlioglu will also work on requested ergonomic changes.

Manufacturers are using Sepang for targeted program work rather than full-field testing. Honda will pursue development under Aleix Espargaro’s supervision while Taka Nakagami focuses on a separate 2027 850cc project. KTM plans a larger pre-season program led by Pol Espargaro with likely involvement from Dani Pedrosa. Ducati and Aprilia anticipate quieter shakedowns focused on their test riders Michele Pirro and Lorenzo Savadori; Savadori is set to ride multiple Aprilias to cover for the injured Jorge Martin.

Overall, the shakedown is an initial, compact opportunity for teams to resolve technical issues and gain early technical impressions before the official collective test begins three days after the shakedown concludes.

Sources