Alex Marquez emerged as one of the standout performers of the 2026 Official Sepang MotoGP Test after delivering the most consistent and competitive race simulations on the final day of running in Malaysia.
While his fastest lap of 1 minute 56.402 seconds placed him at the top of the overall timesheets, it was his long-run pace that drew the strongest attention from the paddock. In conditions that allowed teams to focus on sprint race preparation, Marquez demonstrated both speed and stability over extended stints.
After earlier sessions were affected by rain and high temperatures, Thursday provided the best opportunity for riders to complete meaningful race simulations. Most teams focused on runs of around 10 laps to evaluate tyre performance, fuel usage, and set-up balance ahead of the season.
Marquez made full use of the improved conditions. During his main simulation, the Gresini Ducati rider recorded a best lap of 1 minute 57.295 seconds and completed five laps in the 1 minute 57 second range. He maintained a strong rhythm throughout the run, averaging close to 1 minute 58.0, which was the best among the leading contenders.
This combination of outright pace and consistency highlighted Marquez’s readiness to compete at the front in 2026. His ability to deliver repeated fast laps without significant drop-off suggested strong tyre management and growing confidence with the Ducati GP26 package.
Francesco Bagnaia also produced a solid race simulation, posting a best lap of 1 minute 57.726 seconds and averaging around 1 minute 58.1. While competitive, his pace remained slightly behind Marquez over the full distance.
Source: Info Moto
Marc Marquez continued his adaptation to Ducati machinery with a best lap of 1 minute 57.602 seconds. However, he recorded fewer laps in the 1 minute 57 range and averaged approximately 1 minute 58.2, placing him narrowly behind his younger brother in overall consistency.
The comparison underlined Alex Marquez’s advantage in sustained performance, particularly within the Ducati camp, which remains one of the strongest forces on the grid. Four GP26 machines finished inside the top five overall, confirming the competitiveness of the Italian manufacturer’s latest package.
Ducati’s strength, combined with Marquez’s form, presents a significant challenge to rival teams ahead of the season opener. The Gresini rider’s performance suggested that he has fully adapted to his machinery and is capable of leading development as well as delivering results.
Marquez’s success at Sepang also builds on his strong recent history at the circuit, including his victory at last year’s Malaysian Grand Prix. His familiarity with the layout and conditions appears to have contributed to his confident showing throughout the test.
Although pre-season testing offers only an early indication of form, the data from Sepang has placed Marquez among the leading contenders for the 2026 campaign. The final pre-season test at Buriram later this month will provide further evaluation, but his performance in Malaysia has already sent a clear message to the rest of the field.
As preparations continue, Alex Marquez leaves Sepang as one of the most convincing performers of the winter, combining speed, consistency, and technical understanding in a way that positions him strongly for the new season.
