FIRST OFFICIAL TEST OF 2023 DRAWS TO A CLOSE FOR TEAM GRESINI MOTOGP
The three-day test at the Sepang International Circuit, the first of 2023, was a successful one for Team Gresini MotoGP. Alex Marquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio were able to continue – but more likely begin – the on-track work aboard the Desmosedici GP22 machines they first tried for a few laps more than three months ago at Valencia.
Despite a not-too-productive day two due to adverse weather, in which the riders #49 and #73 were still able to try their Ducati motorcycles in wet conditions, the final day allowed both riders to work on set-up and electronics, with an eye on engine braking.
With the crates ready for the return to Europe, the following test will take place at Portimao on March 10-11 with the final test of the 2023 preseason.
7th – FABIO DI GIANNANTONIO #49 (Best lap overall – 1’58.344s)
“The step forward compared to last year is there and it is quite noticeable. The bike is less on the limit compared to the previous version and there is bigger margin for improvement, especially on corner exit where you can work to perfect the traction side of things. We worked well with the team and we focused on the race pace: not only to prepare for the race itself but also to understand how the bike behaves and how I behave with used tyres. We’re still haven’t hit our full potential, but it was a good start nonetheless.”
9th – ALEX MARQUEZ #73 (Best lap overall – 1’58.385s)
“We working quite a lot on the bike and the set-up and we also did a time attack. It was important to understand which direction to take set-up wise especially considering my riding style: we’re still missing something, but generally speaking it was a very productive and constructive day. We understood a lot in these three days and at Portimao we’ll try to fine-tune some details in order to be ready for the first race.”
