Alex Marquez Tests Radical MotoGP Changes & New Radio System in Aragon
Following a strong weekend at Aragon, Alex Marquez (Ducati/Gresini) used Monday's test day to explore radical changes to his GP24 and experiment with a new radio communication system potentially mandated for MotoGP in 2026. Marquez finished eighth overall, 0.579 seconds behind Maverick Viñales, but emphasised the value of the lessons learned during the day.
Addressing Complex Problems
“We have tried several things with the fork and shock to find solutions to the problems,” Marquez explained. “Basically we did the same thing as in Jerez. During a Grand Prix weekend, some problems are too complex to be solved under pressure. This is exactly what we discussed on Monday.” He clarified that the focus was not on chasing lap times, but on addressing weaknesses identified in previous races.
Exploring Extreme Settings
Comfortable with his GP24, Marquez pushed the boundaries by exploring more extreme settings. “We have not tested anything that would affect performance directly. Radical changes have been attempted, precisely to anticipate more complex scenarios on other circuits.” The objective is to develop a more robust and adaptable base for future races.
Track Conditions & GP25 Preview
The ideal track conditions, however, made interpreting the results more challenging. “The track offered plenty of grip. This made it very easy to pilot, but also more difficult to identify clear areas for improvement.” Marquez also had a brief opportunity to sample the GP25 machine.
Radio Communication System Test
Another significant part of the test was evaluating the radio system, which could become mandatory in 2026. “I was trying it for the first time. It wasn't really a test of the system per se, but rather a constant noise, like a resonating voice. It was not a real communication with the stand,” he noted.
Potential Challenges
Marquez identified a potential issue with the radio system: “At many places on the circuit, it is difficult to understand the voice. We are more receptive to a one-off message than to continuous background noise.” This highlights the need for further development to ensure effective communication during races.