Throttle hands have been itching for it, and now the production 2026 KTM 990 RC R is on the horizon. And, for riders, this highly-anticipated new Supersport entry from KTM is ready to widen the thrills of the street and narrow the margins for lap-times on track.
The KTM 990 RC R arrives with elevated specifications and serves as a refined ‘R’platform that will have you READY TO RACE, but is also engineered with the ergonomics for day-to-day use and offers the best of both arenas. This up-specced model will reset the perception of performance, enjoyment, and style in the next generation Supersport segment.
A natural extension of the KTM RC line-up, the KTM 990 RC R has been years in the making with a wealth of data garnered by KTM’s Research and Development, as well as aerodynamic data from its Motorsport program. Fabricated and assembled in Austria, the bike has a purpose-built steel chassis (and diecast aluminum subframe) with exceptional front-end feel, in addition to a firm, agile character that still offers immense stability. The powerful LC8c engine cranks out class-leading horsepower and torque, launching the machine away from any traffic light as though it was the front row of the grid.
MY26 KTM 990 RC R in action. Photo courtesy KTM.
Sporting DNA is immediately transparent through the aesthetic of the KTM 990 RC R with the wind tunnel-developed aerodynamics, 320 mm Brembo 4-piston caliper HyPure brakes, attuned bodywork, WP APEX suspension and 8.8” TFT dash that reveals the Ride Modes: RAIN, STREET, SPORT, and CUSTOM. Optional Ride Modes include TRACK and two more CUSTOM Modes with telemetry such as lean angle and throttle opening rates for acceleration, as well as four, advanced standard ABS Modes: STREET, SPORT, SUPERMOTO+ and SUPERMOTO ABS.
The specifications of the KTM 990 RC R are a clear indication of the racing genesis of the project, but KTM’s goal is to offer an effective and appealing motorcycle for riders who also want to turn heads on the street. This is evident through its READY TO RACE riding position that is sharp in its stance, while having riders dialed for those longer journeys at speed.
A six-point ergonomics contact patch gives comfy support for knees, arms and hands, and adjustable footrests will accommodate tall or shorter riders, or allow for steeper lean angles at the apex. Weight has been trimmed where possible and remains complemented by attention to detail – inclusive of the 4.2-gallon (16-liter) fuel tank that enables riders to go the distance.
The 2026 KTM 990 RC R will be coming off production lines in November 2025 and will arrive in authorized KTM dealers soon afterward.
MY26 KTM 990 RC R. Photo courtesy KTM
Riaan Neveling, Global KTM Brand Manager: “At KTM we like the fast-paced life and the KTM 990 RC R is a bike that we’ve been impatient to show for some time now. Why? Through all our model segments and strong technology, we know we’ve been missing that motorcycle that gets a certain type of rider excited. We kick ass when it comes to Naked bikes, Adventure bikes and, of course, Offroad, among others, but this is the expression we’ve wanted to deliver for some time. It’s our link to all the efforts to the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing MotoGP project and our outlet for the sea of information and data that has come the way of our Mattighofen R&D experts.”
The KTM 990 RC R’s journey to realization has been charted from discussions to design to delivery in a special video series that can be seen HERE.
Riders, racers and authentic performance-seekers can choose between orange and black versions of the 2026 KTM 990 RC R.
MY26 KTM 990 RC R. Photo courtesy KTM
Plus, KTM has always stayed true to its READY TO RACE core, and the dedicated track rider is no exception. Arriving early 2026, the KTM 990 RC R TRACK is set to make its debut as a pure, track-only machine engineered to deliver performance straight from the Mattighofen production line. Available to order through KTM Authorized Dealers, the KTM 990 RC R TRACK is far more than a street bike conversion. Stripped of unnecessary components and fitted with essentials for serious track use – including a reduced dashboard, dedicated electronics, removed ABS modulator, direct brake lines, a track-optimized gearbox, and more – it’s built to bring riders closer to the apex from day one. Full technical details of this new model will be revealed early next year.
In addition, KTM is set to launch the KTM 990 RC R CUP in Europe during spring 2026. Designed for riders looking to progress beyond standard track days, the KTM 990 RC R CUP offers an accessible entry point into racing without the pressure of competing against seasoned professionals. To further elevate the experience, professional KTM riders will be present at each round, sharing insights and mentoring participants to sharpen their skills on track. The KTM 990 RC R CUP will be open to both the street-homologated version and the dedicated KTM 990 RC R TRACK model. For more info about the CUP go to KTM.com.
More from a press release issued by Ducati Lenovo Team:
Francesco Bagnaia and the Ducati Lenovo Team win the Sepang Sprint starting from pole. Michele Pirro finishes twentieth.
The Ducati Lenovo Team enjoyed a dominant Saturday at the Sepang International Circuit courtesy of Francesco Bagnaia, who came out victorious in the Sprint from pole position. Michele Pirro completed the encounter in twentieth place.
Bagnaia, who took pole after progressing through Q1, had an excellent start to the race and gradually pulled away from his opponents lap after lap up to the chequered flag. This is Pecco’s second win of the season in a Saturday race. Michele Pirro, twenty-second on the grid, finished twentieth at the flag.
The Ducati Lenovo Team will be back in action tomorrow morning at 9:40 local time (GMT +8) for the warm-up, followed by the Grand Prix of Malaysia, which will be contested over a 20-lap distance from 15:00.
Francesco Bagnaia on the podium after his victory in Sprint race. Photo courtesy Ducati Lenovo Team.
Francesco Bagnaia (#63 Ducati Lenovo Team) – 1st “This win is for the team, who work tirelessly. This season we’ve been alternating between excellent performances and very complicated moments, and all together we’re trying to find the reason behind these ups and downs. After yesterday’s difficulties in the time attack, we made some adjustments that helped me quite a bit, both in qualifying and in the Sprint. We had a small issue that limited me a little under braking, but I still managed to be incisive – and the feeling was good.”
Michele Pirro (51) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Ducati Lenovo Team.
Michele Pirro (#51 Ducati Lenovo Team) – 20th “It was a tough and hot race, but if I look at the overall gap I had in the Australian Sprint, we made significant steps forward. The level of this MotoGP is extremely high and my role is different from the other riders’, so I focused on keeping a consistent pace and managing the tyre wear. I’m super happy about Pecco’s result; it was great to see him competitive again.”
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More from a press release issued by BK8 Gresini Team:
A Gresini podium: Alex Marquez seals the runner-up spot, Fermin Aldeguer is rookie of the year.
Sprint – MalaysianGP
2nd – ALEX MARQUEZ #73
3rd – FERMIN ALDEGUER #54 (7th after being disqualified)
World Championship Standings
2nd – ALEX MARQUEZ #73 (388 points)
Runner Up MotoGP 2025
8th – FERMIN ALDEGUER #54 (186 points)
Rookie of the Year 2025
Alex Marquez and all the Gresini Team celebrating the second place in world championship. Photo courtesy Gresini
Alex Marquez: “It was a great season, we deserved it and I had never thought I would have done better than Marc or Enea this season. We did it and we’re happy. I wasn’t honestly happy with the Sprint, I didn’t ride as I could have, I was stiff. Let’s see if tomorrow we can do something to improve and be more competitive.”
Fermin Aldeguer is the 2025 MotoGP Rookie of the year. Photo courtesy Gresini Team.
Fermin Aldeguer:“We could have become rookie of the year in Australia, but honestly speaking it’s much better to have done it here. It was one of the goals for the year, along with winning a race and we achieved both things. Now we’ll aim at continuing our growth, making it into Q2 and wrap up this championship the best way possible.”
* Fermin penalized 8 seconds for tire pressure.
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More from a press release issued by Monster Energy Yamaha:
Sepang Sprint Ends in P5 & P15 for Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP.
Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’s Fabio Quartararo showed his mettle in the opening laps of the Grand Prix of Malaysia Sprint. He completed the race in P6. However, following a post-Sprint 8-second penalty for Fermín Aldeguer, Quartararo ranked fifth in the amended classifications. Álex Rins lost some ground in the middle stages of the 10-lap dash and went on to finish in 15th place.
The Grand Prix of Malaysia Sprint was a challenging outing for the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team. Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins were pushing in the 10-lap contest but were unable to make strides. They went on to ride to a P6 and P15 result respectively. Following a post-Sprint 8-second penalty for Fermín Aldeguer, Quartararo moved up to 5th in the revised classifications.
Starting from P4 on the grid, Quartararo initially held his position but soon got in a scrap with Franco Morbidelli, and Joan Mir grabbed the opportunity to slip through. While Quartararo kept battling with Morbidelli, also Aldeguer snuck past, so the number-20 rider settled in seventh. On lap 5, Mir crashed, allowing El Diablo back into the top 6. The Yamaha man eventually lost touch with Morbidelli and instead focused on making sure that Marco Bezzecchi wouldn’t catch up. Quartararo finished in sixth place, 8.468s from first.
Rins commenced the 10-lap dash from P10 but fell back to twelfth on the first lap. In the two following laps he engaged in a brief battle with a charging Bezzecchi and Enea Bastianini and was relegated to P14. The number-42 rider briefly gained a position when Mir crashed on lap 5, but over the course of lap 3-6 he dropped to P16 as he was unable to ride defensively like he wanted to. A crash by Luca Marini on lap 8, had the Spaniard holding 15th position when he arrived at the chequered flag, which he took 17.721s from the winner.
After today’s results, Quartararo stays in 9th place in the overall standings with 171 points, and Rins holds 19th position with 60 points. Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP are 6th in the team championship with 231 points, and Yamaha remain in 5th position in the constructor championship with 210 points.
The team will be back in action tomorrow* for Warm Up, held from 10:40-10:50 GMT +8, and the 20-lap Race, which starts at 15:00.
*On Sunday, October 26th, daylight saving time will start in Europe. The clocks in Malaysia do not change, increasing the time difference between Malaysia and Europe by one hour for the Sunday.
MASSIMO MEREGALLI – Team Director, Monster Energy Yamaha:
“Today we didn’t quite obtain the outcome we were aiming for. While having both riders qualify inside the top 10 is a good result, Fabio had set his sights on the front row, but he ultimately had to settle for P4. In the Sprint, Fabio managed the tyres pretty well and achieved a positive sixth place, which later became P5. Álex struggled to find the right feeling to defend his position and concluded the race in P15. We’ll analyse today’s data thoroughly to identify areas for improvement ahead of tomorrow’s Race, which promises to be long and demanding for both riders.”
Fabio Quartararo (20) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Monster Energy Yamaha
Fabio Quartararo: “I did my best. At the beginning, various rivals around me had a really good pace, and I lost a lot of time battling with Franky. But I have to say, I haven’t enjoyed a battle that much in a long time. I think my pace was not so bad too, considering where we were yesterday. I gave it my 100%. I expected to be faster at the end of the race, with a bit less tyre drop, but it was similar to the guys in front.”
Alex Rins (42) At Sepang. Photo courtesy Monster Energy Yamaha
Alex Rins:“It was really tough, but we already knew from FP2. We can be competitive on one lap, but not over a whole race distance. The tyre drop after some laps is really big for us. We need to analyse it and see what we can do.”
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More from a press release issued by Aprilia Racing:
Comeback sprint for Aprilia Racing at Sepang.
The sprint at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit concluded with a strong performance from Aprilia Racing. Starting from 14th on the grid after narrowly missing out on Q2, Marco Bezzecchi pulled off an excellent comeback. The Italian rider managed the sprint with composure amid the early-lap battles, steadily climbing through the field to finish sixth.
Focusing on the development of the RS-GP25, Lorenzo Savadori continued fine-tuning new components under race conditions, crossing the finish line in 18th place.
Marco Bezzecchi (72) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Aprilia
Marco Bezzecchi:“The start wasn’t bad, and I managed to recover, pulling off a few nice overtakes. My race pace throughout the weekend hasn’t been bad, but unfortunately, I missed the flying lap on Friday and in qualifying. Clearly, things aren’t going quite as well as in the last few races, but we expected to struggle a bit more here. However, it’s proving useful because we’re working on lots of things that can help us in the future.”
Lorenzo Savadori (32) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Aprilia Racing
Lorenzo Savadori: “My race pace was good, and I was close to the pack. Unfortunately, I had some front-end drop-off and had to back off a bit. I also ran wide at the final corner on the last lap. In general, we tried some new things during the race that still need a bit of fine-tuning and improvement. On Sunday, we’ll aim to take another step forward.”
Fabiano Sterlacchini:“It was definitely a rather challenging day. The layout, temperature and rear grip levels, an issue for all riders, made things a bit tricky for us. There are also a couple of stop-and-go sections we’re still working on. We’ve made good progress over the season, but clearly it’s not enough yet. As we did from Friday to Saturday, we’ll work to identify some solutions to apply in the full race.”
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More from a press release issued by CASTROL Honda LCR:
CASTROL Honda LCR rider Johann Zarco has finished 8th in Saturday’s Sprint at the Sepang International Circuit.
After a strong qualifying performance, French rider Johann Zarco started from 9th position on the grid.
Zarco made a good start, found his rhythm, and controlled the situation throughout the race, ultimately finishing 8th and securing valuable points.
The Frenchman admits to feeling more comfortable on the bike and is pleased with his ability to ride confidently, which is a positive sign as he continues to pursue his goals.
Today’s data will provide valuable insights for Zarco and his crew, helping them refine the final details ahead of tomorrow’s main race.
Johann Zarco (5) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Johann Zarco:“It’s great to have my confidence back on the bike. I’m feeling more at ease and able to perform. Since yesterday, it’s been nice to be able to attack, as I did this morning. I lost a few tenths in qualifying, but we did a good job. At Sprint time, I had a solid start and pushed as much as possible. I couldn’t keep up with the pace of the first six riders, so despite my disappointment, I tried to make the most of the situation and finished 8th. I hope we can make some improvements for tomorrow, and we’re feeling confident.”
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More from a press release issued by Idemitsu Honda LCR:
IDEMITSU Honda LCR rider Somkiat Chantra has finished 17th in Saturday’s Sprint at the Sepang International Circuit.
The Thai rider faced a comeback Sprint, starting from 20th on the grid, but did so with great confidence on a circuit he enjoys.
Chantra made a solid start and managed to handle the situation without mistakes while fighting for his goals.
The rider didn’t give up and pushed hard, finishing 17th and gaining important insights for tomorrow’s race.
Somkiat Chantra (35) at Sepang. Photo courtesy IDEMITSU Honda LCR.
Somkiat Chantra:“Today, I used the soft tyres on both the front and rear. From the beginning, I tried to follow the group, but as the laps went on, I struggled to maintain my pace due to a lack of front-end feeling. Then I just tried to manage the situation. Overall, it wasn’t too bad, but tomorrow we’ll make some setup changes and aim to improve.”
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More from a press release issued by Red Bull KTM Tech3:
Enea Bastianini and Pol Espargaro both delivered solid sprint performances on Super Saturday at the Malaysian Grand Prix, under the hot and humid heat of Sepang. If Bastianini failed to qualify well, with a P19-start, he did once again a solid job in the afternoon’s sprint, as he recovered 10 positions to see the checkered flag in 9th, and score a sprint point, something he had not reproduced since his 5th place in Catalonia’s sprint. Meanwhile, Pol Espargaro took the 11th place of the Tissot Sprint, after he had qualified in 12th.
Qualifying
As qualifying followed the classic FP2 opening Super Saturday, Enea Bastianini was the first of the Red Bull KTM Tech3 squad to hit the track as he joined a busy Q1 session, alongside the 3 latest race winners, and in-form Marco Bezzecchi. Enea’s first lap was a 1’58.402 while Fermin Aldeguer set the tone with a 1’57.698, before Bastianini found a way to gain a few hundredths to clock a 1’58.189 on lap 3, before his pit stop. He was in a provisional 7th place with Luca Marini and Fermin Aldeguer both provisionally qualified. For run 2, Bastianini could not put it all together to do a good enough lap to make some improvements, and his earlier lap remained his best. He finished in 9th, therefore qualifying in 19th on the grid. Francesco Bagnaia and Fermin Aldeguer were the two riders to go through Q2, joining our own Pol Espargaro, in the fight for the 20th pole position of the season. Espargaro’s first lap was a 1’58.174 while Pedro Acosta was the first to take the top of the timesheets with a 1’57.363. The number 44 was in a provisional 9th place as he rejoined the track for run 2, just behind teammate Acosta. Meanwhile, Fabio Quartararo was in pole with a 1’57.195. Unfortunately for Pol, Acosta crashed in front, and he did not make further improvements. Espargaro is set to start the Malaysian Grand Prix from 12th on the grid, while Francesco Bagnaia meant business as he grabbed his 3rd pole of 2025, followed by Alex Marquez and Franco Morbidelli closing the front row.
Tissot Sprint
Under the scorching sun of Malaysia, it was all lights out at 3pm local time for 10 laps of sprint madness, and it was pole sitter Francesco Bagnaia who took the holeshot straight away. From his 12th position, Pol Espargaro took a rocket start himself as 3 positions were gained in the first 3 turns to 8th, but Johann Zarco was quick to answer back as he pushed through Pol, so Espargaro found himself in 9th after one lap. Meanwhile, another one to also take a solid start was Enea Bastianini, who gained 5 positions in one lap to enter lap 2 in P14 behind Marco Bezzecchi. The Italian showed solid early pace with his fastest sprint lap clocked on lap 2 with a 1’59.318, one that saw him close the gap ahead, to then overtake Alex Rins on lap 3 and progress to 13th. Meanwhile, Espargaro was still in 9th, while Bagnaia had already made a 1.1 second-gap on rivals Alex Marquez and Pedro Acosta. The number 44 produced some solid early pace, which allowed him to apply more and more pressure on Zarco ahead, and Joan Mir making a mistake ahead on lap 5 gave Pol his opportunity to move past the LCR rider, and gain two positions to sit in P7 halfway through the 10 lap-shootout. The crashes ahead of both Mir and Oliveira had Bastianini sit in 11th after 6 laps, with now Zarco just 0.2 seconds ahead. Four laps to try making it out to the points! Just a bit further ahead, Pol Espargaro was losing a bit of rhythm as he was overtaken by Bezzecchi, and soon, Luca Marini arrived from behind. Unfortunately, a contact was made between Espargaro and Marini with the HRC rider trying to overtake Pol on the inside. Marini crashed while Pol managed to avoid the worst, but he was back to 12th. In a last effort, he caught back on Raul Fernandez ahead to cross the finish line in 11th. This contact between Espargaro and Marini gifted the two spots Bastianini needed to make it to the points, and that was a P9 for Enea! 10 places gained in 10 laps, an encouraging achievement for the ‘Bestia’ heading to the long distance on Sunday! Don’t miss the final showdown of the Malaysian Grand Prix, with the main race starting at 15:00 local time (UTC+8), for 20 laps!
Enea Bastianini (23) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM Tech3
Enea Bastianini: “As the weekends go by, we improve, day after day, so for sure we improved a bit from yesterday, and we got closer to the others. To be honest, I am not really happy, because the problem remains the same. Every time we jump on the bike at the start of the weekend, we are lacking confidence, and then qualifyings are all the same, I struggle to turn the bike where and when I want, I don’t have a lot of traction especially on the dry. Then during the races, we usually manage to do a good pace. P9 is good, but we must solve our issues.”
Pol Espargaro (44) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM Tech3
Pol Espargaro: “I am happy more or less! We had a good pace from the start of the sprint, I could stay with the top guys while managing the rear drop of the tire, which killed us in Australia. I was about to take P8-P9, but then I had a small contact with Luca Marini, nothing bad, but I lost positions, even if I managed to get back one to finish 11th. It is good for us, but we are looking for more tomorrow!”
Nicolas Goyon, Team Manager: “Today was a good day at the office for the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team, despite the little frustration still going on on Enea Bastianini’s side, as weekends keep looking alike. Our main target was clearly to try improving the one-lap performance, but we failed again, as he qualified in P19, which makes everything complicated. The frustration is obviously higher when you see him finishing in P9 of the sprint after recovering 10 positions. Our goal remains the same, and we won’t stop until we have improved this weak point. Pol Espargaro had another strong day, although he struggled a bit in Q2 with the 12th place, but he rode a solid pace in the sprint, and he was fighting for P8 when contact was made with Luca Marini. He dropped to 11th, but he has done a really good job so far, and I think that we can realistically target top 10 finishes for both our riders on Sunday.”
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More from a press release issued by Honda HRC Castrol:
Disappointing end to promising Sprint Saturday in Sepang.
A double DNF for Honda HRC Castrol, a tough pill to swallow after Joan Mir chased the podium and Luca Marini was in the midst of another impressive recovery.
The rains held off for the entirety of Saturday at the Sepang International Circuit, allowing for another busy day of work. With ample track time, the gaps between riders only continued to tighten and both Honda HRC Castrol riders looked primed to continue their top five performances with Marini leading the morning session and Mir close behind in fourth with mid 1’58s.
Having clinched the top ten on Friday, Joan Mir converted his Q2 speed into seventh on the grid and set about making his presence known in the Sprint. Attempting to ride around the outside of Fabio Quartararo into Turn 1, the #36 was on the move as he chased the leading trio. Lapping half a second faster than Acosta, the distance evaporated rapidly as Mir gave chase. Losing the front just as he reached the podium battle, Mir was unharmed in the fall, but his Sprint would end prematurely. Despite the crash, Mir and Honda HRC were able to take a number of positives away from the day and will return stronger on Sunday.
Missing Q2 just a few tenths, Luca Marini launched from 13th and put together one of his most aggressive races of the season. With Bezzecchi hot on his heels, Marini muscled his way through and into the top eight to enter the fight for the points. Resuming his intense battle with Pol Espargaro from Phillip Island, Marini attempted to pass the former Honda rider but contact between the two would see Marini fall and Espargaro pushed wide. This is Marini’s first crash of the 2025 MotoGP World Championship season.
The Honda HRC Castrol team have taken valuable lessons from Saturday and will return stronger for the 20-lap Malaysian GP on Sunday. Scheduled for 15:00, the Honda RC213V clearly has more to show around the 5.5 kilometres of the Sepang International Circuit.
Joan Mir (36) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Honda HRC
Joan Mir:“Not how we wanted to end today, that’s for sure! Our pace was really good even after a disappointing Qualifying, because our partials were better than our overall lap. In the Sprint, my start was positive, and I am riding with a lot of confidence – I think you can see that on TV as well! We need to try and find a bit more grip, I am making a lot up under braking and it’s easier to make a mistake which is what happened. It was my mistake; we checked the data – one of those crashes where you open the throttle a bit earlier than normal. Our speed is there, this is the positive point and it gives the engineers another example of what and where we need to work.”
Luca Marini (10) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Honda HRC
Luca Marini:“I saw Pol going wide, so I went for the gap but I entered a bit too slowly so he didn’t see me and he came back into the corner. It was my mistake and we touched, I fell. It’s something that can happen and I am OK, a little knock to my finger but nothing serious. A pity because our pace is looking really good and we have the potential to show ourselves. Let’s see what tomorrow can bring, the bike is improving but we need to focus on our one lap speed to make the step that the other riders are able to make. I am confident Honda HRC can do this because the time we have found in just a year is incredible.”
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More from a press release issued by Prima Pramac Yamaha:
Challenging Sprint for Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP at Sepang: Miller 14th, Oliveira Crashes Out Early.
The Sprint Race that awarded the first points of the Malaysian GP weekend — round 20 of the MotoGP World Championship — proved tricky for the Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP riders. Jack Miller completed the 10-lap race in 14th place, while Miguel Oliveira was forced to retire after a harmless crash at Turn 1 at the start of lap six. Tomorrow brings a chance for redemption in the 20-lap Grand Prix (start at 3:00 p.m. local time / 8:00 a.m. CET), with Miller starting 11th on the grid and Oliveira 16th.
It was a tough Saturday for the Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP squad at the Sepang International Circuit, hosting the 20th round of the MotoGP season. After a challenging qualifying session — with Oliveira eliminated in Q1 and forced to settle for 16th, and Miller unable to piece together a perfect lap despite a promising Friday, ending 11th — the Sprint Race turned into a difficult one for both riders.
Caught in the chaos of Turn 1, Miller lost several positions at the start and ended the opening lap in 15th place. Oliveira also dropped back to 20th. His race was cut short by a low-speed crash at Turn 1 early on lap six, while occupying 18th place. Miller, after battling in the opening laps, stabilized his pace and finished 14th. Tomorrow‘s Grand Prix, scheduled for 3:00 p.m. local time (8:00 a.m. CET), will be a chance to fight back.
Malaysian GP schedule:
Sunday: 10:40 (3:40 CET) Warm-up; 15:00 (8:00 CET) Race (20 laps – 110,86 km)
GINO BORSOI – Team Director, Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP
“It was a very difficult race for both riders. They actually started well, but then got caught in traffic at Turn 1 and lost several positions. From there, the race became complicated — stuck in the pack, unable to take their lines, and forced to defend down the straights. For tomorrow, we‘ll try to work on the electronics, as rear-tire management will be a key factor. We haven‘t decided which tire to use yet; we‘ll need to analyze and make the best choice.”
Jack Miller (43) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Prima Pramac Yamaha
Jack Miller: “We maybe could have done a little bit more, but it was a difficult race — the front tire was struggling pretty much from the start. And then you‘re racing in the middle of the group, it‘s hot, you can‘t use the rear tire much to stop, and you just suffer. Turn 1 was a nightmare, turn 4 the same, and turn 9 as well. We need to understand how to keep the temperatures more under control. Tomorrow we‘ll try again and see what we can do.”
Miguel Oliveira (88) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Prima Pramac Yamaha
Miguel Oliveira:“There aren‘t many positive things to take from this Sprint. Qualifying was a bit better, but still not enough to get into Q2. Then in the Sprint it was just about surviving — you can‘t push and there‘s very little you can do. I felt the tires overheating right from the beginning, and then I crashed. I did exactly the same as in the previous laps, but the tire just couldn‘t handle it anymore. I‘m disappointed about that, but we‘ll try again tomorrow, even though it‘s going to be a long and tough race.”
Alpinestars Unveils Limited EditionFLYTE S-R10 Racing Helmet and Supertech R Vented Boots Inspired by 2024 MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin.
Petronas Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia Alpinestars presents a bold new design collaboration with 2024 MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin. Inspired by speed, heat, and the power of flight, the collection features the Supertech R10 Racing Helmet and Supertech R Vented Boots.
The Flyte LE design ignites the track with a flaming motif in deep blues and searing oranges, symbolizing the Martinator’s explosive pace and fearless precision on the bike. The color palette nods to Aprilia’s racing heritage — blending legacy hues with a modern, high-energy aesthetic that mirrors Jorge’s transition to the Aprilia Racing Team.
Engineered for elite performance, both the Supertech R10 Helmet and Supertech R Vented Boots combine MotoGP-proven technology with Alpinestars’ uncompromising commitment to protection, comfort, and style. The result: the ultimate expression of racing performance fused with signature design.
Jorge Martin with the FLYTE S-R10 Racing Helmet and Supertech R Vented Boots. Photo courtesy Alpinestar.
“The Flyte design reflects my drive always to keep moving forward, no matter what: it’s about personality, energy, and a constant drive towards the goal. Working on this design with Alpinestars at a time like the one I’m going through now, gives me even more motivation and strength to come back. I’ve always liked bold designs, and I think this one perfectly captures my relentless drive and the fire in my soul and personality.– JORGE MARTIN
The Limited Edition Flyte Supertech R10 Helmet and Supertech R Vented Boots give fans the opportunity to experience Jorge Martin’s race-day intensity and unique style — the embodiment of passion, precision, and speed.
The Flyte Collection will be available worldwide starting October 24, 2025, at 6 PM CET / 9 AM PST through alpinestars.com and authorized Alpinestars dealers for €649.95 / $659.95 (Supertech R Vented Boots) and €1,349.95 / $1,549.95 (S-R10 Helmet). Each helmet includes interchangeable race and standard spoilers, clear and dark smoke visors, tear-offs, a Pinlock lens, and wind and breath deflectors — all stored in a premium paddock helmet bag.
Jorge Martin with Limited Edition FLYTE S-R10 Racing Helmet. Photo courtesy Alpinestar.
Supertech R10 Road Racing Helmet: MotoGP-Performance:
The Supertech R10 represents Alpinestars’ helmet innovation excellence—the product of extensive research, development, and wind tunnel testing. Designed for aerodynamic efficiency and stability at high speed, the helmet combines advanced ventilation, exceptional comfort, and world-class impact protection, wrapped in an electrifying Flyte graphic that commands attention on and off the grid.
Jorge Martin wearing the Supertech R Vented Boots. Photo courtesy Alpinestar.
Supertech R Vented Boots: MotoGP-Grade Performance for Track and Road:
The Supertech R Vented Boots set the standard for high-performance protective footwear. Engineered from years of feedback from MotoGP and WorldSBK champions, they offer advanced protection, unmatched flexibility, and superior ventilation. The Flyte edition introduces a striking new graphic that complements the helmet — embodying the heat, motion, and intensity of competition.
Key features include extensive perforations for optimal airflow, a flexible rear bellow for dynamic movement, a TPU shifter for precise feel and superior medial protection, and an ergonomically profiled shin plate for premium impact absorption.
ABOUT ALPINESTARS:
Founded in 1963, Alpinestars is the world-leading manufacturer of professional racing products, including motorcycling airbag protection, high-performance apparel, helmets, footwear, and goggles. Alpinestars understands that the best design and research are achieved under extreme conditions. Through its involvement in Formula 1, NASCAR, AMA, World Motocross, and MotoGP, Alpinestars has developed the most advanced technical equipment for the racing world’s top athletes.
Just a reminder, we’re back at BRP’s new Circuit for the final time in 2025 on Saturday, November 1st.
For this one, we’re doing the standard ABC format program both days, with 20 minute rotations. The new Circuit is a fun fast flowing layout, with some fun features to really keep you on your toes. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to ride the Circuit one last time before the year ends!!
TrackDaz is a reseller of KYT Helmets, Attack Performance parts, Yoshimura exhausts, and Pirelli Tires. If you need tires, don’t hesitate to add them to your trackday registration, and we’ll have them waiting for you with your name on them track-side. If you’d like other products, let us know your needs, and we’ll do our best to get you handled.
A week after racing a Team Hammer Suzuki GSX-R750 with ASRA during his Daytona debut, MotoAmerica Talent Cup race winner Bodie Paige finished 5th in Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup Qualifying session held on Saturday of the MotoGP event weekend In Malaysia, at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit. Wild-card rider Paige set a time of 2:19.259 (+1.876).
Qualifying practice Results
However, in Race 1 Paige crashed his NSF250 Honda and didn’t finished the race.
• Triumph to launch 33 new and updated Model Year 26 models
• Ambitious launch plan builds on a landmark financial year (FY25), which saw Triumph deliver more than 141,000 motorcycles worldwide
• This remarkable season began with the launch of 6 Off-Road models and a range of new electric motorcycles into the global youth market
• To be the first to hear about each new model announcement, customers are invited to sign up for updates at TriumphMotorcycles.com
Triumph Motorcycles will reveal a record 33 new and updated model year 2026 motorcycles (MY26).
This ambitious rollout follows years of sustained investment in product development and is underpinned by Triumph’s five consecutive years of record-breaking global sales and confidence in the opportunities that exist within the volatile global motorcycle market.
In its latest landmark financial year, from July 2024 to June 2025, Triumph delivered more than 141,000 motorcycles worldwide. This represents a remarkable 136% growth in sales since 2019, delivered through a network of 950 dealers across 68 countries.
The remaining new models will be unveiled in a series of global reveal announcements. The first of three October announcements was ‘Electric Evolution’, when Triumph introduced the range of TXP electric off-road motorcycles for youth. The next story, ‘True Originals Never Settle’ will be revealed on October 21st. On October 28th Triumph will launch a new model ‘Made to Upstage’.
Of the 33 new or updated models coming to market globally in 2026, ten have already been announced. Two all-new competition Enduro and two all-new competition Cross Country off-road motorcycles are already in dealerships. The all-new MY26 Speed Triple 1200 RX and Scrambler 400 XC are also already available in dealerships. The new Triumph TXP electric off-road motorcycle range for youth, and the MY26 TF 250-X and TF 450-X will land in dealerships by December. The remaining 22 bike reveals will include both new variants of existing lines and all-new models.
Triumph MY26 TF 250-X. Photo courtesy Triumph
With new motorcycles arriving in Triumph’s global dealer network over the next six months, many dealers will be hosting a new model preview events during the winter months, inviting customers to be among the first to see the newest motorcycles in the Triumph range.
While the wider industry faces significant challenges, Triumph’s commitment to innovation and quality remains steadfast. The brand’s record investment in new product development is a testament to its belief in the enduring appeal of motorcycling and its responsibility to deliver the very best to customers worldwide.
Recent MY25 launches such as the Tiger Sport 800 have exceeded expectations, while the MY25 Speed Triple 1200 RS has contributed to a strong uplift in sales. The global Triumph dealer network in emerging markets such as China, Brazil, and India have performed very strongly in their markets over the year. This momentum is further strengthened by Triumph’s expansion into new market segments, including sub-500cc motorcycles, competitive off-road, and most recently, electric off-road models designed for younger riders.
Triumph Tiger Sport 800. Photo courtesy Triumph.
Triumph has just revealed its first electric off-road youth motorcycles. The new Triumph TXP range, powered by OSET introduced two models with scalable electric performance, premium design, and built-in safety features into North America. Building upon the proven foundation of OSET’s pioneering technology and enhanced by Triumph’s design and engineering expertise, the new TXP models feature a lightweight chassis, advanced rider ergonomics, a unique 2-in-1 modular set-up, and Triumph’s striking Performance Yellow and Graphite Black livery.
Triumph MY26 TXP-12. Photo courtesy Triumph
The recent launch of the TF 450-X follows a successful debut year of off-road racing for Triumph, with both motocross and enduro motorcycles delivering standout results. With race wins and podium finishes in international series including the AMA SuperMotocross Championship, FIM MXGP, EnduroGP, and SuperEnduro, the TF 250-X, TF 450-RC, TF 250-E, and TF 450-E have all delivered at the highest level on some of the off-road world’s most competitive stages.
Triumph MY26 TF250C and TF450C. Photo courtesy Triumph
Across Europe, North America, and Australia, Triumph has secured multiple national championship titles and podium finishes, including the ACU British MX2 Motocross Championship, where Tommy Searle rode the TF 250-X to the title, and the hotly contested Assoluti d’Italia di Enduro Italian National Championship earlier in the season, where Italian rider Morgan Lesiardo took the 250 4T title aboard the TF 250-E.
Meanwhile, the sub-500cc range, which includes the Speed 400, Scrambler 400 X, and Scrambler 400 XC, has been instrumental in accelerating Triumph’s growth across Asia.
Paul Stroud, Chief Commercial Officer at Triumph Motorcycles, commented:“The momentum we’ve achieved over recent years is extraordinary. Our record sales, expansion into new segments, and the number of upcoming product launches all reflect the quiet optimism we feel about the future. While the market remains challenging for many, Triumph’s focus is clear. We are committed to delivering a range of motorcycles that are exciting, innovative, and built to the highest quality standards, for our customers around the world.”
To be the first to hear about Triumph’s new models, customers are invited to sign up for updates at TriumphMotorcycles.com
Francesco Bagnaia won the MotoGP Tissot Sprint race Saturday afternoon at Petronas Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP25 on Michelin control tires, the two-time World Champion won the 10-lap race by 2.259 seconds.
Alex Marquez was the runner-up on his BK8 Gresini Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP24, and his teammate, Fermin Aldeguer finished third.
Pedro Acosta, piloting his Red Bull KTM Factory RC16, was fourth.
Franco Morbidelli got fifth on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Team Ducati Desmosedici GP24.
Marc Marquez leads the championship with 545 points, 157 ahead of Alex Marquez who has 388 points. Francesco Bagnaia is third with 286 points.
Bagnaia completes perfect Saturday as Marquez clinches 2025 silver medal. Pecco returns to form with a Sprint victory in Malaysia as Gresini celebrate the #73’s achievement and Aldeguer’s Rookie of the Year win.
There was simply no stopping Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) on Saturday at the PETRONAS Grand Prix of Malaysia. Pole position, Tissot Sprint victory – back with a bang. The double MotoGP World Champion made it look easy to beat Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) by 2.2s, with that result officially handing the #73 second in the championship to make it a Marquez brother 1-2. What an achievement for the family. And there was more to celebrate in the Gresini box because a P3 in the Tissot Sprint meant Fermin Aldeguer clinched the 2025 Rookie of the Year crown.
Bagnaia grabs the holeshot
It was a great start from pole by Pecco and as usual, Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) got off the line like a missile to grab an early P3. Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) didn’t get away well but the Italian battled his way back to P4 by the end of the opening lap, as he and former teammate Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) went elbow to elbow.
Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) and Aldeguer treated us to a barnstormer on the opening lap too before the 2020 World Champion earned P4 at the end of Lap 1 and got into a rapid rhythm.
Mir crashes out of rostrum fight
At the start of Lap 3, Pecco was a second clear of Alex Marquez and Acosta, with Mir just over half a second away from the rostrum. At this stage of the Sprint, Pecco was half a second faster than anyone else on circuit, and his lead was soon up to 1.9s over the trio of Spaniards behind him.
That soon became two though. Mir was down at Turn 9 as he slipped out of the podium battle, and that was the #36’s Sprint over. Now, it was Aldeguer who had his sights firmly set on Acosta’s rear tyre for a bronze medal, and the rookie was reeling in his compatriot very quickly.
Aldeguer hunts and passes Acosta for P3
Aldeguer was over half a second faster on Laps 6 and 7, meaning with three to go, the #54 was in striking distance. And sure enough, Aldeguer pounced. Turn 9 was the corner, and it was a clean, up the inside move to see the Gresini rider move into P3.
Honda HRC Castrol’s promising Saturday ended in double disappointment as Luca Marini suffered his first crash of the season after a move up the inside of Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Tech3) didn’t work at Turn 14.
Aldeguer didn’t have enough time left to catch and challenge teammate Marquez for P2, and no one could lay a glove on Pecco. The #63 delivered a faultless Saturday in Sepang to win the Tissot Sprint from pole, with the silver and bronze medals going to the Gresini garage as Marquez finally clinched P2 overall to create history – a Marquez 1-2 in 2025. And on the other side of the box, Aldeguer’s P3 saw him crowned the star rookie of the season – and even with a late tyre pressure investigation, that would stand. Podium or not.
Your Saturday points scorers
Acosta crossed the line in P4, 1.3s ahead of Morbidelli, as Quartararo completed the top six. Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) was the lead RS-GP rider in P7, the Italian now relinquishes P3 again to Pecco in that championship fight, with Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) and Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3) the final points scorers in P8 and P9 respectively.
Coming up: Grand Prix Sunday in Malaysia
Can anyone stop Pecco from heading back to Europe with a full-fat 37 points? We’ll find out on Sunday as a fascinating MotoGP encounter awaits at Sepang.
Daniel Holgado was the man to beat during Moto2 World qualifying Saturday at Petronas Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. The Spaniard topped qualifying session with a new lap record time. Riding his Pirelli-shod CFMOTO RCB Aspar Team Kalex, Holgado navigated the 3.44-mile (5.54 km) course in 2:02.858, breaking Jake Dixon’s 2025 All-Time Lap Record of 2:03.633, he set this morning in FP2.
Barry Baltus was second-best with a 2:03.420 on his Fantic Racing Kalex.
Jake Dixon claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 2:03.449 on his ELF Marc VDS Racing Boscoscuro.
Row-two qualifiers included ITALJET Gresini’s Albert Arenas (2:03.483), Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Daniel Muñoz (2:03.581) and CFMOTO RCB Aspar’s David Alonso (2:03.586).
American Joe Roberts finished Saturday afternoon’s qualifying session 11th with a best time of 2:03.904 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
Holgado produces late stunner as Gonzalez and Moreira clash. The rookie sets a blistering new lap record to land pole position by over half a second, as things get heated between the title contenders in Q2.
Daniel Holgado (CFMOTO RCB Aspar Team) will start the Moto2 Malaysian GP from pole position after setting a late, scintillating new lap record to clinch pole by over half a second. The rookie’s sublime 2:02.858 was by far the best lap of a mouthwatering Q2 that saw the tension between title contenders Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) and Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team) ramp up, as Barry Baltus (Fantic Racing) and Jake Dixon (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) complete the front row.
Why were tensions raised, you might ask? Well, in the early stages, Moreira overtook Gonzalez at Turn 1 as the time attacks began. That shoved the Spaniard slightly wide and ruined his opening lap, as the championship leader then lunged up the inside of the Brazilian at Turn 2 to return the favour.
It’s a moment that lights up an already fascinating title race, and something else that adds an extra dose of spice into the mix is the fact that Moreira was forced to settle for P16 on the grid after the #10 made a mistake on his final flying lap at Turn 4. Gonzalez, meanwhile, was able to salvage P7, one place ahead of third overall Aron Canet (Fantic Racing).
The second row consists of Albert Arenas (ITALJET Gresini Moto2), Catalan GP podium finisher Daniel Muñoz (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and last weekend’s second place finisher David Alonso (CFMOTO RCB Aspar Team), as full focus now turns to Gonzalez vs Moreira on Sunday.
But don’t discount Canet from this championship chase just yet, as front row starters Baltus and Dixon also set out to keep their title hopes alive tomorrow. Plus, Holgado is out to clinch the Rookie of the Year accolade.
David Almansa earned pole position during Moto3 World Championship qualifying Saturday at Petronas Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Leopard Racing Honda on Pirelli control tires, Almansa topped the 26-rider field with a lap time of 2:09.846.
Taiyo Furusato was the best of the rest with a 2:09.940 on his Honda Team Asia, and Jose Antonio Rueda claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 2:10.076 on his Red Bull KTM Ajo.
Row-two qualifiers included Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP’s Guido Pini (2:10.154) and Brian Uriarte (2:10.239) and Rueda’s teammate Alvaro Carpe (2:10.296).
Almansa aces Sepang to pip Furusato to pole. Two late laps push reigning Champion Rueda back to third as Moto3 get ready to rumble in Malaysia.
Rocketing to a second pole of 2025, David Almansa (Leopard Racing) left it until his final flying lap to deliver the goods at Sepang on Saturday. Still chasing his first podium, he’ll have Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) right next to him for the first time in over a year, whilst Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) lines up third.
Getting the business done in Q1 to move into the pole battle, Ryusei Yamanaka (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI), Guido Pini (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP), Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) and Ruche Moodley (DENSSI Racing – BOE) all graduated to Q2. The four KTM riders were in good company in Q2 and the Austrian manufacturer were flying after the opening lap, with Rueda striking first to head a provisional Red Bull KTM Ajo 1-2 with Alvaro Carpe in P2.
On his second flying lap, Angel Piqueras (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) fell at Turn 4 but was able to remount easily and continue his session. The #36 was third at the halfway point of the session and wasn’t the only faller as Brian Uriarte (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) tumbled at Turn 15 but was likewise able to remount.
With a little over a four minutes remaining, it was the final roll of the dice. Pini and Uriarte put in stellar laptimes to move onto the provisional front row whilst behind, on late laps, Furusato and Almansa were flying. Furusato went provisional pole but seconds later, Almansa left it late to top the order. It’s a second pole of 2025 for Almansa as the #22 hopes to end his quest for a first podium and it’s a Honda 1-2 for the first time since Assen last year with Furusato in second, whilst Champion Rueda completes the front row. Pini and Uriarte were forced to settle for P4 and P5 whilst the second row is completed by Carpe.
Coming via Q1, Perrone heads up the third row of the grid in seventh with Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Power Electronics Aspar Team) enduring back-to-back third row starts, this time in eighth. Piqueras couldn’t improve from his first run attempt and took ninth, just ahead of Luca Lunetta (SIC58 Squadra Corse) who completes the top ten. Other notable names to watch out for include Joel Kelso (LEVELUP-MTA) who goes from 11th and debutant wildcard rider Hakim Danish (AEON CREDIT SIC Racing MSI) who was 14th.
Francesco Bagnaia claimed pole position during MotoGP qualifying Saturday at Petronas Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP25 on the dry 3.44-mile (5.54 km) track, the two-time World Champion turned a 1:57.001 to top the 23-rider field.
Alex Marquez was the best of the rest with a 1:57.017 on his BK8 Gresini Ducati Desmosedici GP24, and Franco Morbidelli claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 1:57.159 on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP24, making it three Ducatis in the front row.
Row-two qualifiers included Monster Energy Yamaha’s Fabio Quartararo (1:57.195), Red Bull KTM Factory’s Pedro Acosta (1:57.363) and Marquez’s teammate, Fermin Aldeguer (1:57.439).
Bagnaia back with a bang for Sepang pole. The #63 bookends the flyaway tour with a pole and goes in search of replicating his masterful Motegi performance.
Bouncing back and casting his Indonesia and Australia woes to one side, Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) did it the hard way by snatching pole position after going through Q1. Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) missed out on pole by 0.016s whilst Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) makes it a Ducati front row lockout.
Q1: a heavyweight battle to graduate
The three most-recent winners found themselves in Q1 as Bagnaia, Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) and Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) all looked to lock in their Q2 spot. Third place in the standings, Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) also vied to move through along with FP2’s fastest rider Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol), one of the strongest Q1s of the season taking shape. With the first run done, Marini set the fastest lap of the weekend but at the start of his second run, Pecco took over top spot. It was only brief as Aldeguer went P1 but then crashed on his final flying lap at Turn 4, bringing out the yellow flags. This neutralised the state of play, with the #54 being joined by Bagnaia in Q2; Marini starts 13th, ahead of Bezzecchi and Fernandez.
Q2’s POLE BATTLE: Quartararo opens strong, Bagnaia revitalised
Now, the pole shootout. The opening efforts were strong and by the end of the first run, Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) had fired in a 1’57.195 but there was still time to find, with it being slower than Aldeguer’s Q1 effort. Pedro Acosta was in P2 whilst Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) made it three different manufacturers on the provisional front row. Heading out on track at the start of the second half of the session, Bagnaia was on a different strategy to everyone else; his first lap time was a strong one, with a belting final sector slotting him into provisional pole and the fastest lap of the weekend.
With less than three minutes to go, Acosta crashed at Turn 1 but remounted in a quest to improve his pole hopes. Aldeguer’s opening lap in his second run placed him in the top five whilst teammate Alex Marquez was just 0.016s shy of Bagnaia’s time in P2. It wasn’t all done yet however, as ‘El Diablo’ was having one last role of the dice. Up after three sectors, he ran wide at the final corner and in the end, couldn’t improve.
BACK ON TOP: Pecco unleashes brilliance at Sepang
Finishing the flyaway tour just as he started, Pecco bagged pole for a third consecutive season at Sepang and whilst not dipping under the 1’57 bracket, his 1’57.001 was good enough to give him a clear view into Turn 1 for the Sprint and Grand Prix on Sunday. Alex Marquez’s P2 welcomes him back to the front row for the first time since Misano, whilst Franco Morbidelli rounded out the front row and confirmed his Sepang pace from Friday, clinching a second front row of 2025, his first since Aragon. Quartararo was forced to settle for P4 and the head of the second row alongside Acosta, whilst Aldeguer salvaged a second row start in sixth.
Top Honda honours went the way of Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol), less than half a second off of pole and just under a tenth ahead of Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team). Back in the top nine for the first time since Barcelona, Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) lines up ninth whilst Alex Rins (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) repeats his top ten qualifying effort of 12 months ago at Sepang with 10th, ahead of Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) and KTM super-sub Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Tech 3).
Throttle hands have been itching for it, and now the production 2026 KTM 990 RC R is on the horizon. And, for riders, this highly-anticipated new Supersport entry from KTM is ready to widen the thrills of the street and narrow the margins for lap-times on track.
The KTM 990 RC R arrives with elevated specifications and serves as a refined ‘R’platform that will have you READY TO RACE, but is also engineered with the ergonomics for day-to-day use and offers the best of both arenas. This up-specced model will reset the perception of performance, enjoyment, and style in the next generation Supersport segment.
A natural extension of the KTM RC line-up, the KTM 990 RC R has been years in the making with a wealth of data garnered by KTM’s Research and Development, as well as aerodynamic data from its Motorsport program. Fabricated and assembled in Austria, the bike has a purpose-built steel chassis (and diecast aluminum subframe) with exceptional front-end feel, in addition to a firm, agile character that still offers immense stability. The powerful LC8c engine cranks out class-leading horsepower and torque, launching the machine away from any traffic light as though it was the front row of the grid.
MY26 KTM 990 RC R in action. Photo courtesy KTM.
Sporting DNA is immediately transparent through the aesthetic of the KTM 990 RC R with the wind tunnel-developed aerodynamics, 320 mm Brembo 4-piston caliper HyPure brakes, attuned bodywork, WP APEX suspension and 8.8” TFT dash that reveals the Ride Modes: RAIN, STREET, SPORT, and CUSTOM. Optional Ride Modes include TRACK and two more CUSTOM Modes with telemetry such as lean angle and throttle opening rates for acceleration, as well as four, advanced standard ABS Modes: STREET, SPORT, SUPERMOTO+ and SUPERMOTO ABS.
The specifications of the KTM 990 RC R are a clear indication of the racing genesis of the project, but KTM’s goal is to offer an effective and appealing motorcycle for riders who also want to turn heads on the street. This is evident through its READY TO RACE riding position that is sharp in its stance, while having riders dialed for those longer journeys at speed.
A six-point ergonomics contact patch gives comfy support for knees, arms and hands, and adjustable footrests will accommodate tall or shorter riders, or allow for steeper lean angles at the apex. Weight has been trimmed where possible and remains complemented by attention to detail – inclusive of the 4.2-gallon (16-liter) fuel tank that enables riders to go the distance.
The 2026 KTM 990 RC R will be coming off production lines in November 2025 and will arrive in authorized KTM dealers soon afterward.
MY26 KTM 990 RC R. Photo courtesy KTM
Riaan Neveling, Global KTM Brand Manager: “At KTM we like the fast-paced life and the KTM 990 RC R is a bike that we’ve been impatient to show for some time now. Why? Through all our model segments and strong technology, we know we’ve been missing that motorcycle that gets a certain type of rider excited. We kick ass when it comes to Naked bikes, Adventure bikes and, of course, Offroad, among others, but this is the expression we’ve wanted to deliver for some time. It’s our link to all the efforts to the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing MotoGP project and our outlet for the sea of information and data that has come the way of our Mattighofen R&D experts.”
The KTM 990 RC R’s journey to realization has been charted from discussions to design to delivery in a special video series that can be seen HERE.
Riders, racers and authentic performance-seekers can choose between orange and black versions of the 2026 KTM 990 RC R.
MY26 KTM 990 RC R. Photo courtesy KTM
Plus, KTM has always stayed true to its READY TO RACE core, and the dedicated track rider is no exception. Arriving early 2026, the KTM 990 RC R TRACK is set to make its debut as a pure, track-only machine engineered to deliver performance straight from the Mattighofen production line. Available to order through KTM Authorized Dealers, the KTM 990 RC R TRACK is far more than a street bike conversion. Stripped of unnecessary components and fitted with essentials for serious track use – including a reduced dashboard, dedicated electronics, removed ABS modulator, direct brake lines, a track-optimized gearbox, and more – it’s built to bring riders closer to the apex from day one. Full technical details of this new model will be revealed early next year.
In addition, KTM is set to launch the KTM 990 RC R CUP in Europe during spring 2026. Designed for riders looking to progress beyond standard track days, the KTM 990 RC R CUP offers an accessible entry point into racing without the pressure of competing against seasoned professionals. To further elevate the experience, professional KTM riders will be present at each round, sharing insights and mentoring participants to sharpen their skills on track. The KTM 990 RC R CUP will be open to both the street-homologated version and the dedicated KTM 990 RC R TRACK model. For more info about the CUP go to KTM.com.
MotoGP Sprint race at Sepang. Photo courtesy Monster Energy Yamaha
More from a press release issued by Ducati Lenovo Team:
Francesco Bagnaia and the Ducati Lenovo Team win the Sepang Sprint starting from pole. Michele Pirro finishes twentieth.
The Ducati Lenovo Team enjoyed a dominant Saturday at the Sepang International Circuit courtesy of Francesco Bagnaia, who came out victorious in the Sprint from pole position. Michele Pirro completed the encounter in twentieth place.
Bagnaia, who took pole after progressing through Q1, had an excellent start to the race and gradually pulled away from his opponents lap after lap up to the chequered flag. This is Pecco’s second win of the season in a Saturday race. Michele Pirro, twenty-second on the grid, finished twentieth at the flag.
The Ducati Lenovo Team will be back in action tomorrow morning at 9:40 local time (GMT +8) for the warm-up, followed by the Grand Prix of Malaysia, which will be contested over a 20-lap distance from 15:00.
Francesco Bagnaia on the podium after his victory in Sprint race. Photo courtesy Ducati Lenovo Team.
Francesco Bagnaia (#63 Ducati Lenovo Team) – 1st “This win is for the team, who work tirelessly. This season we’ve been alternating between excellent performances and very complicated moments, and all together we’re trying to find the reason behind these ups and downs. After yesterday’s difficulties in the time attack, we made some adjustments that helped me quite a bit, both in qualifying and in the Sprint. We had a small issue that limited me a little under braking, but I still managed to be incisive – and the feeling was good.”
Michele Pirro (51) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Ducati Lenovo Team.
Michele Pirro (#51 Ducati Lenovo Team) – 20th “It was a tough and hot race, but if I look at the overall gap I had in the Australian Sprint, we made significant steps forward. The level of this MotoGP is extremely high and my role is different from the other riders’, so I focused on keeping a consistent pace and managing the tyre wear. I’m super happy about Pecco’s result; it was great to see him competitive again.”
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More from a press release issued by BK8 Gresini Team:
A Gresini podium: Alex Marquez seals the runner-up spot, Fermin Aldeguer is rookie of the year.
Sprint – MalaysianGP
2nd – ALEX MARQUEZ #73
3rd – FERMIN ALDEGUER #54 (7th after being disqualified)
World Championship Standings
2nd – ALEX MARQUEZ #73 (388 points)
Runner Up MotoGP 2025
8th – FERMIN ALDEGUER #54 (186 points)
Rookie of the Year 2025
Alex Marquez and all the Gresini Team celebrating the second place in world championship. Photo courtesy Gresini
Alex Marquez: “It was a great season, we deserved it and I had never thought I would have done better than Marc or Enea this season. We did it and we’re happy. I wasn’t honestly happy with the Sprint, I didn’t ride as I could have, I was stiff. Let’s see if tomorrow we can do something to improve and be more competitive.”
Fermin Aldeguer is the 2025 MotoGP Rookie of the year. Photo courtesy Gresini Team.
Fermin Aldeguer:“We could have become rookie of the year in Australia, but honestly speaking it’s much better to have done it here. It was one of the goals for the year, along with winning a race and we achieved both things. Now we’ll aim at continuing our growth, making it into Q2 and wrap up this championship the best way possible.”
* Fermin penalized 8 seconds for tire pressure.
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More from a press release issued by Monster Energy Yamaha:
Sepang Sprint Ends in P5 & P15 for Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP.
Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’s Fabio Quartararo showed his mettle in the opening laps of the Grand Prix of Malaysia Sprint. He completed the race in P6. However, following a post-Sprint 8-second penalty for Fermín Aldeguer, Quartararo ranked fifth in the amended classifications. Álex Rins lost some ground in the middle stages of the 10-lap dash and went on to finish in 15th place.
The Grand Prix of Malaysia Sprint was a challenging outing for the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team. Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins were pushing in the 10-lap contest but were unable to make strides. They went on to ride to a P6 and P15 result respectively. Following a post-Sprint 8-second penalty for Fermín Aldeguer, Quartararo moved up to 5th in the revised classifications.
Starting from P4 on the grid, Quartararo initially held his position but soon got in a scrap with Franco Morbidelli, and Joan Mir grabbed the opportunity to slip through. While Quartararo kept battling with Morbidelli, also Aldeguer snuck past, so the number-20 rider settled in seventh. On lap 5, Mir crashed, allowing El Diablo back into the top 6. The Yamaha man eventually lost touch with Morbidelli and instead focused on making sure that Marco Bezzecchi wouldn’t catch up. Quartararo finished in sixth place, 8.468s from first.
Rins commenced the 10-lap dash from P10 but fell back to twelfth on the first lap. In the two following laps he engaged in a brief battle with a charging Bezzecchi and Enea Bastianini and was relegated to P14. The number-42 rider briefly gained a position when Mir crashed on lap 5, but over the course of lap 3-6 he dropped to P16 as he was unable to ride defensively like he wanted to. A crash by Luca Marini on lap 8, had the Spaniard holding 15th position when he arrived at the chequered flag, which he took 17.721s from the winner.
After today’s results, Quartararo stays in 9th place in the overall standings with 171 points, and Rins holds 19th position with 60 points. Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP are 6th in the team championship with 231 points, and Yamaha remain in 5th position in the constructor championship with 210 points.
The team will be back in action tomorrow* for Warm Up, held from 10:40-10:50 GMT +8, and the 20-lap Race, which starts at 15:00.
*On Sunday, October 26th, daylight saving time will start in Europe. The clocks in Malaysia do not change, increasing the time difference between Malaysia and Europe by one hour for the Sunday.
MASSIMO MEREGALLI – Team Director, Monster Energy Yamaha:
“Today we didn’t quite obtain the outcome we were aiming for. While having both riders qualify inside the top 10 is a good result, Fabio had set his sights on the front row, but he ultimately had to settle for P4. In the Sprint, Fabio managed the tyres pretty well and achieved a positive sixth place, which later became P5. Álex struggled to find the right feeling to defend his position and concluded the race in P15. We’ll analyse today’s data thoroughly to identify areas for improvement ahead of tomorrow’s Race, which promises to be long and demanding for both riders.”
Fabio Quartararo (20) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Monster Energy Yamaha
Fabio Quartararo: “I did my best. At the beginning, various rivals around me had a really good pace, and I lost a lot of time battling with Franky. But I have to say, I haven’t enjoyed a battle that much in a long time. I think my pace was not so bad too, considering where we were yesterday. I gave it my 100%. I expected to be faster at the end of the race, with a bit less tyre drop, but it was similar to the guys in front.”
Alex Rins (42) At Sepang. Photo courtesy Monster Energy Yamaha
Alex Rins:“It was really tough, but we already knew from FP2. We can be competitive on one lap, but not over a whole race distance. The tyre drop after some laps is really big for us. We need to analyse it and see what we can do.”
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More from a press release issued by Aprilia Racing:
Comeback sprint for Aprilia Racing at Sepang.
The sprint at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit concluded with a strong performance from Aprilia Racing. Starting from 14th on the grid after narrowly missing out on Q2, Marco Bezzecchi pulled off an excellent comeback. The Italian rider managed the sprint with composure amid the early-lap battles, steadily climbing through the field to finish sixth.
Focusing on the development of the RS-GP25, Lorenzo Savadori continued fine-tuning new components under race conditions, crossing the finish line in 18th place.
Marco Bezzecchi (72) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Aprilia
Marco Bezzecchi:“The start wasn’t bad, and I managed to recover, pulling off a few nice overtakes. My race pace throughout the weekend hasn’t been bad, but unfortunately, I missed the flying lap on Friday and in qualifying. Clearly, things aren’t going quite as well as in the last few races, but we expected to struggle a bit more here. However, it’s proving useful because we’re working on lots of things that can help us in the future.”
Lorenzo Savadori (32) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Aprilia Racing
Lorenzo Savadori: “My race pace was good, and I was close to the pack. Unfortunately, I had some front-end drop-off and had to back off a bit. I also ran wide at the final corner on the last lap. In general, we tried some new things during the race that still need a bit of fine-tuning and improvement. On Sunday, we’ll aim to take another step forward.”
Fabiano Sterlacchini:“It was definitely a rather challenging day. The layout, temperature and rear grip levels, an issue for all riders, made things a bit tricky for us. There are also a couple of stop-and-go sections we’re still working on. We’ve made good progress over the season, but clearly it’s not enough yet. As we did from Friday to Saturday, we’ll work to identify some solutions to apply in the full race.”
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More from a press release issued by CASTROL Honda LCR:
CASTROL Honda LCR rider Johann Zarco has finished 8th in Saturday’s Sprint at the Sepang International Circuit.
After a strong qualifying performance, French rider Johann Zarco started from 9th position on the grid.
Zarco made a good start, found his rhythm, and controlled the situation throughout the race, ultimately finishing 8th and securing valuable points.
The Frenchman admits to feeling more comfortable on the bike and is pleased with his ability to ride confidently, which is a positive sign as he continues to pursue his goals.
Today’s data will provide valuable insights for Zarco and his crew, helping them refine the final details ahead of tomorrow’s main race.
Johann Zarco (5) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Johann Zarco:“It’s great to have my confidence back on the bike. I’m feeling more at ease and able to perform. Since yesterday, it’s been nice to be able to attack, as I did this morning. I lost a few tenths in qualifying, but we did a good job. At Sprint time, I had a solid start and pushed as much as possible. I couldn’t keep up with the pace of the first six riders, so despite my disappointment, I tried to make the most of the situation and finished 8th. I hope we can make some improvements for tomorrow, and we’re feeling confident.”
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More from a press release issued by Idemitsu Honda LCR:
IDEMITSU Honda LCR rider Somkiat Chantra has finished 17th in Saturday’s Sprint at the Sepang International Circuit.
The Thai rider faced a comeback Sprint, starting from 20th on the grid, but did so with great confidence on a circuit he enjoys.
Chantra made a solid start and managed to handle the situation without mistakes while fighting for his goals.
The rider didn’t give up and pushed hard, finishing 17th and gaining important insights for tomorrow’s race.
Somkiat Chantra (35) at Sepang. Photo courtesy IDEMITSU Honda LCR.
Somkiat Chantra:“Today, I used the soft tyres on both the front and rear. From the beginning, I tried to follow the group, but as the laps went on, I struggled to maintain my pace due to a lack of front-end feeling. Then I just tried to manage the situation. Overall, it wasn’t too bad, but tomorrow we’ll make some setup changes and aim to improve.”
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More from a press release issued by Red Bull KTM Tech3:
Enea Bastianini and Pol Espargaro both delivered solid sprint performances on Super Saturday at the Malaysian Grand Prix, under the hot and humid heat of Sepang. If Bastianini failed to qualify well, with a P19-start, he did once again a solid job in the afternoon’s sprint, as he recovered 10 positions to see the checkered flag in 9th, and score a sprint point, something he had not reproduced since his 5th place in Catalonia’s sprint. Meanwhile, Pol Espargaro took the 11th place of the Tissot Sprint, after he had qualified in 12th.
Qualifying
As qualifying followed the classic FP2 opening Super Saturday, Enea Bastianini was the first of the Red Bull KTM Tech3 squad to hit the track as he joined a busy Q1 session, alongside the 3 latest race winners, and in-form Marco Bezzecchi. Enea’s first lap was a 1’58.402 while Fermin Aldeguer set the tone with a 1’57.698, before Bastianini found a way to gain a few hundredths to clock a 1’58.189 on lap 3, before his pit stop. He was in a provisional 7th place with Luca Marini and Fermin Aldeguer both provisionally qualified. For run 2, Bastianini could not put it all together to do a good enough lap to make some improvements, and his earlier lap remained his best. He finished in 9th, therefore qualifying in 19th on the grid. Francesco Bagnaia and Fermin Aldeguer were the two riders to go through Q2, joining our own Pol Espargaro, in the fight for the 20th pole position of the season. Espargaro’s first lap was a 1’58.174 while Pedro Acosta was the first to take the top of the timesheets with a 1’57.363. The number 44 was in a provisional 9th place as he rejoined the track for run 2, just behind teammate Acosta. Meanwhile, Fabio Quartararo was in pole with a 1’57.195. Unfortunately for Pol, Acosta crashed in front, and he did not make further improvements. Espargaro is set to start the Malaysian Grand Prix from 12th on the grid, while Francesco Bagnaia meant business as he grabbed his 3rd pole of 2025, followed by Alex Marquez and Franco Morbidelli closing the front row.
Tissot Sprint
Under the scorching sun of Malaysia, it was all lights out at 3pm local time for 10 laps of sprint madness, and it was pole sitter Francesco Bagnaia who took the holeshot straight away. From his 12th position, Pol Espargaro took a rocket start himself as 3 positions were gained in the first 3 turns to 8th, but Johann Zarco was quick to answer back as he pushed through Pol, so Espargaro found himself in 9th after one lap. Meanwhile, another one to also take a solid start was Enea Bastianini, who gained 5 positions in one lap to enter lap 2 in P14 behind Marco Bezzecchi. The Italian showed solid early pace with his fastest sprint lap clocked on lap 2 with a 1’59.318, one that saw him close the gap ahead, to then overtake Alex Rins on lap 3 and progress to 13th. Meanwhile, Espargaro was still in 9th, while Bagnaia had already made a 1.1 second-gap on rivals Alex Marquez and Pedro Acosta. The number 44 produced some solid early pace, which allowed him to apply more and more pressure on Zarco ahead, and Joan Mir making a mistake ahead on lap 5 gave Pol his opportunity to move past the LCR rider, and gain two positions to sit in P7 halfway through the 10 lap-shootout. The crashes ahead of both Mir and Oliveira had Bastianini sit in 11th after 6 laps, with now Zarco just 0.2 seconds ahead. Four laps to try making it out to the points! Just a bit further ahead, Pol Espargaro was losing a bit of rhythm as he was overtaken by Bezzecchi, and soon, Luca Marini arrived from behind. Unfortunately, a contact was made between Espargaro and Marini with the HRC rider trying to overtake Pol on the inside. Marini crashed while Pol managed to avoid the worst, but he was back to 12th. In a last effort, he caught back on Raul Fernandez ahead to cross the finish line in 11th. This contact between Espargaro and Marini gifted the two spots Bastianini needed to make it to the points, and that was a P9 for Enea! 10 places gained in 10 laps, an encouraging achievement for the ‘Bestia’ heading to the long distance on Sunday! Don’t miss the final showdown of the Malaysian Grand Prix, with the main race starting at 15:00 local time (UTC+8), for 20 laps!
Enea Bastianini (23) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM Tech3
Enea Bastianini: “As the weekends go by, we improve, day after day, so for sure we improved a bit from yesterday, and we got closer to the others. To be honest, I am not really happy, because the problem remains the same. Every time we jump on the bike at the start of the weekend, we are lacking confidence, and then qualifyings are all the same, I struggle to turn the bike where and when I want, I don’t have a lot of traction especially on the dry. Then during the races, we usually manage to do a good pace. P9 is good, but we must solve our issues.”
Pol Espargaro (44) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM Tech3
Pol Espargaro: “I am happy more or less! We had a good pace from the start of the sprint, I could stay with the top guys while managing the rear drop of the tire, which killed us in Australia. I was about to take P8-P9, but then I had a small contact with Luca Marini, nothing bad, but I lost positions, even if I managed to get back one to finish 11th. It is good for us, but we are looking for more tomorrow!”
Nicolas Goyon, Team Manager: “Today was a good day at the office for the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team, despite the little frustration still going on on Enea Bastianini’s side, as weekends keep looking alike. Our main target was clearly to try improving the one-lap performance, but we failed again, as he qualified in P19, which makes everything complicated. The frustration is obviously higher when you see him finishing in P9 of the sprint after recovering 10 positions. Our goal remains the same, and we won’t stop until we have improved this weak point. Pol Espargaro had another strong day, although he struggled a bit in Q2 with the 12th place, but he rode a solid pace in the sprint, and he was fighting for P8 when contact was made with Luca Marini. He dropped to 11th, but he has done a really good job so far, and I think that we can realistically target top 10 finishes for both our riders on Sunday.”
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More from a press release issued by Honda HRC Castrol:
Disappointing end to promising Sprint Saturday in Sepang.
A double DNF for Honda HRC Castrol, a tough pill to swallow after Joan Mir chased the podium and Luca Marini was in the midst of another impressive recovery.
The rains held off for the entirety of Saturday at the Sepang International Circuit, allowing for another busy day of work. With ample track time, the gaps between riders only continued to tighten and both Honda HRC Castrol riders looked primed to continue their top five performances with Marini leading the morning session and Mir close behind in fourth with mid 1’58s.
Having clinched the top ten on Friday, Joan Mir converted his Q2 speed into seventh on the grid and set about making his presence known in the Sprint. Attempting to ride around the outside of Fabio Quartararo into Turn 1, the #36 was on the move as he chased the leading trio. Lapping half a second faster than Acosta, the distance evaporated rapidly as Mir gave chase. Losing the front just as he reached the podium battle, Mir was unharmed in the fall, but his Sprint would end prematurely. Despite the crash, Mir and Honda HRC were able to take a number of positives away from the day and will return stronger on Sunday.
Missing Q2 just a few tenths, Luca Marini launched from 13th and put together one of his most aggressive races of the season. With Bezzecchi hot on his heels, Marini muscled his way through and into the top eight to enter the fight for the points. Resuming his intense battle with Pol Espargaro from Phillip Island, Marini attempted to pass the former Honda rider but contact between the two would see Marini fall and Espargaro pushed wide. This is Marini’s first crash of the 2025 MotoGP World Championship season.
The Honda HRC Castrol team have taken valuable lessons from Saturday and will return stronger for the 20-lap Malaysian GP on Sunday. Scheduled for 15:00, the Honda RC213V clearly has more to show around the 5.5 kilometres of the Sepang International Circuit.
Joan Mir (36) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Honda HRC
Joan Mir:“Not how we wanted to end today, that’s for sure! Our pace was really good even after a disappointing Qualifying, because our partials were better than our overall lap. In the Sprint, my start was positive, and I am riding with a lot of confidence – I think you can see that on TV as well! We need to try and find a bit more grip, I am making a lot up under braking and it’s easier to make a mistake which is what happened. It was my mistake; we checked the data – one of those crashes where you open the throttle a bit earlier than normal. Our speed is there, this is the positive point and it gives the engineers another example of what and where we need to work.”
Luca Marini (10) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Honda HRC
Luca Marini:“I saw Pol going wide, so I went for the gap but I entered a bit too slowly so he didn’t see me and he came back into the corner. It was my mistake and we touched, I fell. It’s something that can happen and I am OK, a little knock to my finger but nothing serious. A pity because our pace is looking really good and we have the potential to show ourselves. Let’s see what tomorrow can bring, the bike is improving but we need to focus on our one lap speed to make the step that the other riders are able to make. I am confident Honda HRC can do this because the time we have found in just a year is incredible.”
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More from a press release issued by Prima Pramac Yamaha:
Challenging Sprint for Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP at Sepang: Miller 14th, Oliveira Crashes Out Early.
The Sprint Race that awarded the first points of the Malaysian GP weekend — round 20 of the MotoGP World Championship — proved tricky for the Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP riders. Jack Miller completed the 10-lap race in 14th place, while Miguel Oliveira was forced to retire after a harmless crash at Turn 1 at the start of lap six. Tomorrow brings a chance for redemption in the 20-lap Grand Prix (start at 3:00 p.m. local time / 8:00 a.m. CET), with Miller starting 11th on the grid and Oliveira 16th.
It was a tough Saturday for the Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP squad at the Sepang International Circuit, hosting the 20th round of the MotoGP season. After a challenging qualifying session — with Oliveira eliminated in Q1 and forced to settle for 16th, and Miller unable to piece together a perfect lap despite a promising Friday, ending 11th — the Sprint Race turned into a difficult one for both riders.
Caught in the chaos of Turn 1, Miller lost several positions at the start and ended the opening lap in 15th place. Oliveira also dropped back to 20th. His race was cut short by a low-speed crash at Turn 1 early on lap six, while occupying 18th place. Miller, after battling in the opening laps, stabilized his pace and finished 14th. Tomorrow‘s Grand Prix, scheduled for 3:00 p.m. local time (8:00 a.m. CET), will be a chance to fight back.
Malaysian GP schedule:
Sunday: 10:40 (3:40 CET) Warm-up; 15:00 (8:00 CET) Race (20 laps – 110,86 km)
GINO BORSOI – Team Director, Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP
“It was a very difficult race for both riders. They actually started well, but then got caught in traffic at Turn 1 and lost several positions. From there, the race became complicated — stuck in the pack, unable to take their lines, and forced to defend down the straights. For tomorrow, we‘ll try to work on the electronics, as rear-tire management will be a key factor. We haven‘t decided which tire to use yet; we‘ll need to analyze and make the best choice.”
Jack Miller (43) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Prima Pramac Yamaha
Jack Miller: “We maybe could have done a little bit more, but it was a difficult race — the front tire was struggling pretty much from the start. And then you‘re racing in the middle of the group, it‘s hot, you can‘t use the rear tire much to stop, and you just suffer. Turn 1 was a nightmare, turn 4 the same, and turn 9 as well. We need to understand how to keep the temperatures more under control. Tomorrow we‘ll try again and see what we can do.”
Miguel Oliveira (88) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Prima Pramac Yamaha
Miguel Oliveira:“There aren‘t many positive things to take from this Sprint. Qualifying was a bit better, but still not enough to get into Q2. Then in the Sprint it was just about surviving — you can‘t push and there‘s very little you can do. I felt the tires overheating right from the beginning, and then I crashed. I did exactly the same as in the previous laps, but the tire just couldn‘t handle it anymore. I‘m disappointed about that, but we‘ll try again tomorrow, even though it‘s going to be a long and tough race.”
Jorge Martin with the FLYTE S-R10 Racing Helmet. Photo courtesy Alpinestar.
Alpinestars Unveils Limited EditionFLYTE S-R10 Racing Helmet and Supertech R Vented Boots Inspired by 2024 MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin.
Petronas Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia Alpinestars presents a bold new design collaboration with 2024 MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin. Inspired by speed, heat, and the power of flight, the collection features the Supertech R10 Racing Helmet and Supertech R Vented Boots.
The Flyte LE design ignites the track with a flaming motif in deep blues and searing oranges, symbolizing the Martinator’s explosive pace and fearless precision on the bike. The color palette nods to Aprilia’s racing heritage — blending legacy hues with a modern, high-energy aesthetic that mirrors Jorge’s transition to the Aprilia Racing Team.
Engineered for elite performance, both the Supertech R10 Helmet and Supertech R Vented Boots combine MotoGP-proven technology with Alpinestars’ uncompromising commitment to protection, comfort, and style. The result: the ultimate expression of racing performance fused with signature design.
Jorge Martin with the FLYTE S-R10 Racing Helmet and Supertech R Vented Boots. Photo courtesy Alpinestar.
“The Flyte design reflects my drive always to keep moving forward, no matter what: it’s about personality, energy, and a constant drive towards the goal. Working on this design with Alpinestars at a time like the one I’m going through now, gives me even more motivation and strength to come back. I’ve always liked bold designs, and I think this one perfectly captures my relentless drive and the fire in my soul and personality.– JORGE MARTIN
The Limited Edition Flyte Supertech R10 Helmet and Supertech R Vented Boots give fans the opportunity to experience Jorge Martin’s race-day intensity and unique style — the embodiment of passion, precision, and speed.
The Flyte Collection will be available worldwide starting October 24, 2025, at 6 PM CET / 9 AM PST through alpinestars.com and authorized Alpinestars dealers for €649.95 / $659.95 (Supertech R Vented Boots) and €1,349.95 / $1,549.95 (S-R10 Helmet). Each helmet includes interchangeable race and standard spoilers, clear and dark smoke visors, tear-offs, a Pinlock lens, and wind and breath deflectors — all stored in a premium paddock helmet bag.
Jorge Martin with Limited Edition FLYTE S-R10 Racing Helmet. Photo courtesy Alpinestar.
Supertech R10 Road Racing Helmet: MotoGP-Performance:
The Supertech R10 represents Alpinestars’ helmet innovation excellence—the product of extensive research, development, and wind tunnel testing. Designed for aerodynamic efficiency and stability at high speed, the helmet combines advanced ventilation, exceptional comfort, and world-class impact protection, wrapped in an electrifying Flyte graphic that commands attention on and off the grid.
Jorge Martin wearing the Supertech R Vented Boots. Photo courtesy Alpinestar.
Supertech R Vented Boots: MotoGP-Grade Performance for Track and Road:
The Supertech R Vented Boots set the standard for high-performance protective footwear. Engineered from years of feedback from MotoGP and WorldSBK champions, they offer advanced protection, unmatched flexibility, and superior ventilation. The Flyte edition introduces a striking new graphic that complements the helmet — embodying the heat, motion, and intensity of competition.
Key features include extensive perforations for optimal airflow, a flexible rear bellow for dynamic movement, a TPU shifter for precise feel and superior medial protection, and an ergonomically profiled shin plate for premium impact absorption.
ABOUT ALPINESTARS:
Founded in 1963, Alpinestars is the world-leading manufacturer of professional racing products, including motorcycling airbag protection, high-performance apparel, helmets, footwear, and goggles. Alpinestars understands that the best design and research are achieved under extreme conditions. Through its involvement in Formula 1, NASCAR, AMA, World Motocross, and MotoGP, Alpinestars has developed the most advanced technical equipment for the racing world’s top athletes.
Some students riding during a Track Daz Event. Photo courtesy TrackDaz.
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Attention in the pits.
Just a reminder, we’re back at BRP’s new Circuit for the final time in 2025 on Saturday, November 1st.
For this one, we’re doing the standard ABC format program both days, with 20 minute rotations. The new Circuit is a fun fast flowing layout, with some fun features to really keep you on your toes. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to ride the Circuit one last time before the year ends!!
TrackDaz is a reseller of KYT Helmets, Attack Performance parts, Yoshimura exhausts, and Pirelli Tires. If you need tires, don’t hesitate to add them to your trackday registration, and we’ll have them waiting for you with your name on them track-side. If you’d like other products, let us know your needs, and we’ll do our best to get you handled.
Bodie Paige (26) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Asia Talent Cup.
A week after racing a Team Hammer Suzuki GSX-R750 with ASRA during his Daytona debut, MotoAmerica Talent Cup race winner Bodie Paige finished 5th in Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup Qualifying session held on Saturday of the MotoGP event weekend In Malaysia, at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit. Wild-card rider Paige set a time of 2:19.259 (+1.876).
Qualifying practice Results
However, in Race 1 Paige crashed his NSF250 Honda and didn’t finished the race.
• Triumph to launch 33 new and updated Model Year 26 models
• Ambitious launch plan builds on a landmark financial year (FY25), which saw Triumph deliver more than 141,000 motorcycles worldwide
• This remarkable season began with the launch of 6 Off-Road models and a range of new electric motorcycles into the global youth market
• To be the first to hear about each new model announcement, customers are invited to sign up for updates at TriumphMotorcycles.com
Triumph Motorcycles will reveal a record 33 new and updated model year 2026 motorcycles (MY26).
This ambitious rollout follows years of sustained investment in product development and is underpinned by Triumph’s five consecutive years of record-breaking global sales and confidence in the opportunities that exist within the volatile global motorcycle market.
In its latest landmark financial year, from July 2024 to June 2025, Triumph delivered more than 141,000 motorcycles worldwide. This represents a remarkable 136% growth in sales since 2019, delivered through a network of 950 dealers across 68 countries.
The remaining new models will be unveiled in a series of global reveal announcements. The first of three October announcements was ‘Electric Evolution’, when Triumph introduced the range of TXP electric off-road motorcycles for youth. The next story, ‘True Originals Never Settle’ will be revealed on October 21st. On October 28th Triumph will launch a new model ‘Made to Upstage’.
Of the 33 new or updated models coming to market globally in 2026, ten have already been announced. Two all-new competition Enduro and two all-new competition Cross Country off-road motorcycles are already in dealerships. The all-new MY26 Speed Triple 1200 RX and Scrambler 400 XC are also already available in dealerships. The new Triumph TXP electric off-road motorcycle range for youth, and the MY26 TF 250-X and TF 450-X will land in dealerships by December. The remaining 22 bike reveals will include both new variants of existing lines and all-new models.
Triumph MY26 TF 250-X. Photo courtesy Triumph
With new motorcycles arriving in Triumph’s global dealer network over the next six months, many dealers will be hosting a new model preview events during the winter months, inviting customers to be among the first to see the newest motorcycles in the Triumph range.
While the wider industry faces significant challenges, Triumph’s commitment to innovation and quality remains steadfast. The brand’s record investment in new product development is a testament to its belief in the enduring appeal of motorcycling and its responsibility to deliver the very best to customers worldwide.
Recent MY25 launches such as the Tiger Sport 800 have exceeded expectations, while the MY25 Speed Triple 1200 RS has contributed to a strong uplift in sales. The global Triumph dealer network in emerging markets such as China, Brazil, and India have performed very strongly in their markets over the year. This momentum is further strengthened by Triumph’s expansion into new market segments, including sub-500cc motorcycles, competitive off-road, and most recently, electric off-road models designed for younger riders.
Triumph Tiger Sport 800. Photo courtesy Triumph.
Triumph has just revealed its first electric off-road youth motorcycles. The new Triumph TXP range, powered by OSET introduced two models with scalable electric performance, premium design, and built-in safety features into North America. Building upon the proven foundation of OSET’s pioneering technology and enhanced by Triumph’s design and engineering expertise, the new TXP models feature a lightweight chassis, advanced rider ergonomics, a unique 2-in-1 modular set-up, and Triumph’s striking Performance Yellow and Graphite Black livery.
Triumph MY26 TXP-12. Photo courtesy Triumph
The recent launch of the TF 450-X follows a successful debut year of off-road racing for Triumph, with both motocross and enduro motorcycles delivering standout results. With race wins and podium finishes in international series including the AMA SuperMotocross Championship, FIM MXGP, EnduroGP, and SuperEnduro, the TF 250-X, TF 450-RC, TF 250-E, and TF 450-E have all delivered at the highest level on some of the off-road world’s most competitive stages.
Triumph MY26 TF250C and TF450C. Photo courtesy Triumph
Across Europe, North America, and Australia, Triumph has secured multiple national championship titles and podium finishes, including the ACU British MX2 Motocross Championship, where Tommy Searle rode the TF 250-X to the title, and the hotly contested Assoluti d’Italia di Enduro Italian National Championship earlier in the season, where Italian rider Morgan Lesiardo took the 250 4T title aboard the TF 250-E.
Meanwhile, the sub-500cc range, which includes the Speed 400, Scrambler 400 X, and Scrambler 400 XC, has been instrumental in accelerating Triumph’s growth across Asia.
Paul Stroud, Chief Commercial Officer at Triumph Motorcycles, commented:“The momentum we’ve achieved over recent years is extraordinary. Our record sales, expansion into new segments, and the number of upcoming product launches all reflect the quiet optimism we feel about the future. While the market remains challenging for many, Triumph’s focus is clear. We are committed to delivering a range of motorcycles that are exciting, innovative, and built to the highest quality standards, for our customers around the world.”
To be the first to hear about Triumph’s new models, customers are invited to sign up for updates at TriumphMotorcycles.com
Petronas Sepang International
Circuit, in Malaysia. Photo courtesy dorna.
Francesco Bagnaia won the MotoGP Tissot Sprint race Saturday afternoon at Petronas Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP25 on Michelin control tires, the two-time World Champion won the 10-lap race by 2.259 seconds.
Alex Marquez was the runner-up on his BK8 Gresini Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP24, and his teammate, Fermin Aldeguer finished third.
Pedro Acosta, piloting his Red Bull KTM Factory RC16, was fourth.
Franco Morbidelli got fifth on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Team Ducati Desmosedici GP24.
Marc Marquez leads the championship with 545 points, 157 ahead of Alex Marquez who has 388 points. Francesco Bagnaia is third with 286 points.
Bagnaia completes perfect Saturday as Marquez clinches 2025 silver medal. Pecco returns to form with a Sprint victory in Malaysia as Gresini celebrate the #73’s achievement and Aldeguer’s Rookie of the Year win.
There was simply no stopping Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) on Saturday at the PETRONAS Grand Prix of Malaysia. Pole position, Tissot Sprint victory – back with a bang. The double MotoGP World Champion made it look easy to beat Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) by 2.2s, with that result officially handing the #73 second in the championship to make it a Marquez brother 1-2. What an achievement for the family. And there was more to celebrate in the Gresini box because a P3 in the Tissot Sprint meant Fermin Aldeguer clinched the 2025 Rookie of the Year crown.
Bagnaia grabs the holeshot
It was a great start from pole by Pecco and as usual, Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) got off the line like a missile to grab an early P3. Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) didn’t get away well but the Italian battled his way back to P4 by the end of the opening lap, as he and former teammate Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) went elbow to elbow.
Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) and Aldeguer treated us to a barnstormer on the opening lap too before the 2020 World Champion earned P4 at the end of Lap 1 and got into a rapid rhythm.
Mir crashes out of rostrum fight
At the start of Lap 3, Pecco was a second clear of Alex Marquez and Acosta, with Mir just over half a second away from the rostrum. At this stage of the Sprint, Pecco was half a second faster than anyone else on circuit, and his lead was soon up to 1.9s over the trio of Spaniards behind him.
That soon became two though. Mir was down at Turn 9 as he slipped out of the podium battle, and that was the #36’s Sprint over. Now, it was Aldeguer who had his sights firmly set on Acosta’s rear tyre for a bronze medal, and the rookie was reeling in his compatriot very quickly.
Aldeguer hunts and passes Acosta for P3
Aldeguer was over half a second faster on Laps 6 and 7, meaning with three to go, the #54 was in striking distance. And sure enough, Aldeguer pounced. Turn 9 was the corner, and it was a clean, up the inside move to see the Gresini rider move into P3.
Honda HRC Castrol’s promising Saturday ended in double disappointment as Luca Marini suffered his first crash of the season after a move up the inside of Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Tech3) didn’t work at Turn 14.
Aldeguer didn’t have enough time left to catch and challenge teammate Marquez for P2, and no one could lay a glove on Pecco. The #63 delivered a faultless Saturday in Sepang to win the Tissot Sprint from pole, with the silver and bronze medals going to the Gresini garage as Marquez finally clinched P2 overall to create history – a Marquez 1-2 in 2025. And on the other side of the box, Aldeguer’s P3 saw him crowned the star rookie of the season – and even with a late tyre pressure investigation, that would stand. Podium or not.
Your Saturday points scorers
Acosta crossed the line in P4, 1.3s ahead of Morbidelli, as Quartararo completed the top six. Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) was the lead RS-GP rider in P7, the Italian now relinquishes P3 again to Pecco in that championship fight, with Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) and Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3) the final points scorers in P8 and P9 respectively.
Coming up: Grand Prix Sunday in Malaysia
Can anyone stop Pecco from heading back to Europe with a full-fat 37 points? We’ll find out on Sunday as a fascinating MotoGP encounter awaits at Sepang.
Daniel Holgado (27) at Sepang. Photo courtesy CFMOTO Team.
Daniel Holgado was the man to beat during Moto2 World qualifying Saturday at Petronas Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. The Spaniard topped qualifying session with a new lap record time. Riding his Pirelli-shod CFMOTO RCB Aspar Team Kalex, Holgado navigated the 3.44-mile (5.54 km) course in 2:02.858, breaking Jake Dixon’s 2025 All-Time Lap Record of 2:03.633, he set this morning in FP2.
Barry Baltus was second-best with a 2:03.420 on his Fantic Racing Kalex.
Jake Dixon claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 2:03.449 on his ELF Marc VDS Racing Boscoscuro.
Row-two qualifiers included ITALJET Gresini’s Albert Arenas (2:03.483), Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Daniel Muñoz (2:03.581) and CFMOTO RCB Aspar’s David Alonso (2:03.586).
American Joe Roberts finished Saturday afternoon’s qualifying session 11th with a best time of 2:03.904 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
Holgado produces late stunner as Gonzalez and Moreira clash. The rookie sets a blistering new lap record to land pole position by over half a second, as things get heated between the title contenders in Q2.
Daniel Holgado (CFMOTO RCB Aspar Team) will start the Moto2 Malaysian GP from pole position after setting a late, scintillating new lap record to clinch pole by over half a second. The rookie’s sublime 2:02.858 was by far the best lap of a mouthwatering Q2 that saw the tension between title contenders Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) and Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team) ramp up, as Barry Baltus (Fantic Racing) and Jake Dixon (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) complete the front row.
Why were tensions raised, you might ask? Well, in the early stages, Moreira overtook Gonzalez at Turn 1 as the time attacks began. That shoved the Spaniard slightly wide and ruined his opening lap, as the championship leader then lunged up the inside of the Brazilian at Turn 2 to return the favour.
It’s a moment that lights up an already fascinating title race, and something else that adds an extra dose of spice into the mix is the fact that Moreira was forced to settle for P16 on the grid after the #10 made a mistake on his final flying lap at Turn 4. Gonzalez, meanwhile, was able to salvage P7, one place ahead of third overall Aron Canet (Fantic Racing).
The second row consists of Albert Arenas (ITALJET Gresini Moto2), Catalan GP podium finisher Daniel Muñoz (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and last weekend’s second place finisher David Alonso (CFMOTO RCB Aspar Team), as full focus now turns to Gonzalez vs Moreira on Sunday.
But don’t discount Canet from this championship chase just yet, as front row starters Baltus and Dixon also set out to keep their title hopes alive tomorrow. Plus, Holgado is out to clinch the Rookie of the Year accolade.
David Almansa in parc fermé after claiming pole position at Sepang. Photo courtesy Dorna.
David Almansa earned pole position during Moto3 World Championship qualifying Saturday at Petronas Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Leopard Racing Honda on Pirelli control tires, Almansa topped the 26-rider field with a lap time of 2:09.846.
Taiyo Furusato was the best of the rest with a 2:09.940 on his Honda Team Asia, and Jose Antonio Rueda claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 2:10.076 on his Red Bull KTM Ajo.
Row-two qualifiers included Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP’s Guido Pini (2:10.154) and Brian Uriarte (2:10.239) and Rueda’s teammate Alvaro Carpe (2:10.296).
Almansa aces Sepang to pip Furusato to pole. Two late laps push reigning Champion Rueda back to third as Moto3 get ready to rumble in Malaysia.
Rocketing to a second pole of 2025, David Almansa (Leopard Racing) left it until his final flying lap to deliver the goods at Sepang on Saturday. Still chasing his first podium, he’ll have Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) right next to him for the first time in over a year, whilst Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) lines up third.
Getting the business done in Q1 to move into the pole battle, Ryusei Yamanaka (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI), Guido Pini (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP), Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) and Ruche Moodley (DENSSI Racing – BOE) all graduated to Q2. The four KTM riders were in good company in Q2 and the Austrian manufacturer were flying after the opening lap, with Rueda striking first to head a provisional Red Bull KTM Ajo 1-2 with Alvaro Carpe in P2.
On his second flying lap, Angel Piqueras (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) fell at Turn 4 but was able to remount easily and continue his session. The #36 was third at the halfway point of the session and wasn’t the only faller as Brian Uriarte (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) tumbled at Turn 15 but was likewise able to remount.
With a little over a four minutes remaining, it was the final roll of the dice. Pini and Uriarte put in stellar laptimes to move onto the provisional front row whilst behind, on late laps, Furusato and Almansa were flying. Furusato went provisional pole but seconds later, Almansa left it late to top the order. It’s a second pole of 2025 for Almansa as the #22 hopes to end his quest for a first podium and it’s a Honda 1-2 for the first time since Assen last year with Furusato in second, whilst Champion Rueda completes the front row. Pini and Uriarte were forced to settle for P4 and P5 whilst the second row is completed by Carpe.
Coming via Q1, Perrone heads up the third row of the grid in seventh with Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Power Electronics Aspar Team) enduring back-to-back third row starts, this time in eighth. Piqueras couldn’t improve from his first run attempt and took ninth, just ahead of Luca Lunetta (SIC58 Squadra Corse) who completes the top ten. Other notable names to watch out for include Joel Kelso (LEVELUP-MTA) who goes from 11th and debutant wildcard rider Hakim Danish (AEON CREDIT SIC Racing MSI) who was 14th.
Francesco Bagnaia (63) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Ducati Lenovo.
Francesco Bagnaia claimed pole position during MotoGP qualifying Saturday at Petronas Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP25 on the dry 3.44-mile (5.54 km) track, the two-time World Champion turned a 1:57.001 to top the 23-rider field.
Alex Marquez was the best of the rest with a 1:57.017 on his BK8 Gresini Ducati Desmosedici GP24, and Franco Morbidelli claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 1:57.159 on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP24, making it three Ducatis in the front row.
Row-two qualifiers included Monster Energy Yamaha’s Fabio Quartararo (1:57.195), Red Bull KTM Factory’s Pedro Acosta (1:57.363) and Marquez’s teammate, Fermin Aldeguer (1:57.439).
Bagnaia back with a bang for Sepang pole. The #63 bookends the flyaway tour with a pole and goes in search of replicating his masterful Motegi performance.
Bouncing back and casting his Indonesia and Australia woes to one side, Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) did it the hard way by snatching pole position after going through Q1. Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) missed out on pole by 0.016s whilst Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) makes it a Ducati front row lockout.
Q1: a heavyweight battle to graduate
The three most-recent winners found themselves in Q1 as Bagnaia, Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) and Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) all looked to lock in their Q2 spot. Third place in the standings, Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) also vied to move through along with FP2’s fastest rider Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol), one of the strongest Q1s of the season taking shape. With the first run done, Marini set the fastest lap of the weekend but at the start of his second run, Pecco took over top spot. It was only brief as Aldeguer went P1 but then crashed on his final flying lap at Turn 4, bringing out the yellow flags. This neutralised the state of play, with the #54 being joined by Bagnaia in Q2; Marini starts 13th, ahead of Bezzecchi and Fernandez.
Q2’s POLE BATTLE: Quartararo opens strong, Bagnaia revitalised
Now, the pole shootout. The opening efforts were strong and by the end of the first run, Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) had fired in a 1’57.195 but there was still time to find, with it being slower than Aldeguer’s Q1 effort. Pedro Acosta was in P2 whilst Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) made it three different manufacturers on the provisional front row. Heading out on track at the start of the second half of the session, Bagnaia was on a different strategy to everyone else; his first lap time was a strong one, with a belting final sector slotting him into provisional pole and the fastest lap of the weekend.
With less than three minutes to go, Acosta crashed at Turn 1 but remounted in a quest to improve his pole hopes. Aldeguer’s opening lap in his second run placed him in the top five whilst teammate Alex Marquez was just 0.016s shy of Bagnaia’s time in P2. It wasn’t all done yet however, as ‘El Diablo’ was having one last role of the dice. Up after three sectors, he ran wide at the final corner and in the end, couldn’t improve.
BACK ON TOP: Pecco unleashes brilliance at Sepang
Finishing the flyaway tour just as he started, Pecco bagged pole for a third consecutive season at Sepang and whilst not dipping under the 1’57 bracket, his 1’57.001 was good enough to give him a clear view into Turn 1 for the Sprint and Grand Prix on Sunday. Alex Marquez’s P2 welcomes him back to the front row for the first time since Misano, whilst Franco Morbidelli rounded out the front row and confirmed his Sepang pace from Friday, clinching a second front row of 2025, his first since Aragon. Quartararo was forced to settle for P4 and the head of the second row alongside Acosta, whilst Aldeguer salvaged a second row start in sixth.
Top Honda honours went the way of Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol), less than half a second off of pole and just under a tenth ahead of Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team). Back in the top nine for the first time since Barcelona, Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) lines up ninth whilst Alex Rins (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) repeats his top ten qualifying effort of 12 months ago at Sepang with 10th, ahead of Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) and KTM super-sub Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Tech 3).
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MASSIMO MEREGALLI – Team Director, Monster Energy Yamaha:
GINO BORSOI – Team Director, Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP
