Ducati Unveils Radically Enhanced Fairing in Valencia MotoGP Test

VALENCIA, Spain – Ducati has introduced a significantly evolved aerodynamic package for its prototype 2026 MotoGP bike during testing at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia. The unveiling took place on Tuesday, immediately following the conclusion of the 2024 MotoGP season, and showcased a markedly different fairing design compared to the configurations used by Francesco Bagnaia and Nicolo Bulega in the race just two days prior.

While rival manufacturer Aprilia garnered attention with its heavily camouflaged RS-GP, featuring several novel aerodynamic concepts indicating a substantial change in developmental direction, Ducati appears to be reinforcing its established design ethos. The Italian marque is opting to refine and push its existing aerodynamic principles to unprecedented levels.

Initial feedback from the track has been positive. Alex Marquez, who participated in the test alongside Bulega and Bagnaia, also evaluated the 2026-specification Michelin tires. Marquez reported a favorable initial impression of the new aerodynamic setup. Bulega, stepping up to MotoGP after securing the World Supersport title, demonstrated improvement over his performance from the race weekend. Bagnaia, the reigning two-time MotoGP World Champion, concluded the test just over three-tenths of a second off the fastest time. Critically, Bagnaia set his best lap on the medium compound rear tire, and his final time attack was prematurely ended by a crash at Turn 2.

The development of this prototype GP26 machine remains consistent with the trajectory established by Ducati’s engineering department, led by General Manager Gigi Dall’Igna. While the fundamental fairing philosophy remains, the refinements conceived at the Dallara wind tunnel in Varano de’ Melegari represent an aggressive extension of these concepts.

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A key design alteration involves the integration of the air slot, which is no longer an independent aerodynamic element. Instead, it is incorporated into the vertical profile, effectively creating a channel that runs over the step in the fairing. This design change highlights the ongoing effort by MotoGP teams to optimize efficiency, particularly in managing the substantial heat generated by the engine and radiator.

The objective is to streamline airflow and mitigate the impact of hot air on the rider, which could compromise concentration at critical moments. Ducati’s meticulous attention to internal airflow management is evident in the strategic direction of air currents towards areas that minimize adverse effects on rider comfort and performance.

Notably, the increased airflow at the side diffuser inlet is immediately apparent, as is the deeper and more pronounced channel created between the aerodynamic element and the side panel. This deliberate design creates a dedicated air channel engineered to maximize downforce when the motorcycle is at full lean angle. This is a critical factor in improving cornering performance and overall stability.

The Valencia test marked the first opportunity for teams to begin working on the development of the 2026 machines, which will be subject to significant technical regulation changes. The engine capacity will be reduced from 1000cc to 850cc, and the maximum cylinder bore will be reduced from 81mm to 75mm. The maximum number of engines allowed per season will increase from seven to eight. Also, aerodynamic development will be further restricted, and ride-height devices will be banned.

Bagnaia, who secured his second consecutive MotoGP World Championship in 2023 and third overall, had a mixed 2024 season. While he finished second in the championship standings, he experienced several crashes and mechanical issues that impacted his performance. His teammate, Enea Bastianini, finished fifth in the standings, securing one race win and four additional podium finishes. Ducati secured the constructors’ championship for the fourth consecutive year, and the team will aim to further extend its dominance in the 2025 season.

Alex Marquez, riding for the Gresini Racing MotoGP team (an independent Ducati team), finished ninth in the 2024 championship standings, with a best race result of second place at the Spanish Grand Prix. Nicolo Bulega, who will be riding for the Aruba.it Racing WorldSBK team in 2025, had a successful 2024 season in the World Supersport Championship. He secured the title with four race wins and several podium finishes.

Ducati’s commitment to aerodynamic innovation is part of a broader effort to maintain its competitive edge in MotoGP. The Italian manufacturer has consistently pushed the boundaries of motorcycle design, and its latest fairing solution is a testament to this dedication. The team is expected to continue development and refinement of the GP26 machine throughout the winter testing period, and further iterations are likely to be seen at subsequent tests in Sepang and Qatar.

While Ducati likely withheld some of its most significant innovations from the Valencia test, Bagnaia’s positive demeanor at the end of the day suggests that the three-time world champion may be regaining confidence and momentum after a challenging season. The team will be hoping that the new aerodynamic package can contribute to a more consistent and competitive performance in the 2025 season.

The unveiling of Ducati’s radical fairing solution in Valencia marks a significant step in the development of the 2026 MotoGP machines. With major technical regulation changes on the horizon, teams are eager to explore new design concepts and technologies that can provide a competitive advantage. The Valencia test provided a valuable opportunity for Ducati to gather data and feedback on its latest aerodynamic innovations, and the team will be working diligently throughout the winter to further refine and optimize the GP26 machine.