Shock results from San Marino post-race test: Marquez unimpressed and Marini Dominates!

In an unexpected turn of events at the much-anticipated post-San Marino Grand Prix test, VR46 Ducati’s Luca Marini stole the spotlight by leading the charts, while racing superstar Marc Marquez lagged behind, finishing 14th, on the highly talked-about 2024 Honda MotoGP prototype.

Given the tumultuous period that Japanese manufacturers have been experiencing this MotoGP season, and the resulting instability in the rider market, the Monday test at Misano was viewed with great importance. Questions over the futures of Marquez and Fabio Quartararo have intensified, making the day’s outcomes even more crucial.

**Highlights from the Day:**

– **Honda’s 2024 Prototype**: While there was significant buzz surrounding Honda’s next-gen prototype, Marquez’s feedback was less than positive. He revealed his dissatisfaction with the rear grip of the new model, drawing parallels with the existing issues in the current Honda prototype.

– **Yamaha’s Forward Thinking**: The Japanese manufacturer showcased multiple new components for 2024, including a redefined aerodynamic package, chassis, and engine. The brains behind this innovation, Luca Marmorini, was present at Misano to oversee the tests.

– **Ducati’s Rising Star**: Luca Marini proved his mettle by reigning supreme in both the morning and afternoon sessions, recording a blistering 1m30.602s in the latter’s last hour. Notably, other Ducati stalwarts such as Francesco Bagnaia, Marco Bezzecchi, Fabio Di Giannantonio, and Michele Pirro were absent due to varying reasons.

– **Top of the List**: Following Marini was Maverick Vinales, testing Aprilia’s new chassis. Brad Binder landed third, working with KTM’s innovative carbon fibre chassis. Despite facing technical glitches, Jorge Martin secured the fourth spot, while Jack Miller and Quartararo rounded off the top six.

– **Mid-Table Performances**: Yamaha’s Franco Morbidelli claimed the eighth spot, followed closely by Gresini’s Alex Marquez and RNF’s Raul Fernandez. Aleix Espargaro, after testing Aprilia’s novel frame, felt it was a mixed bag and was skeptical of using it in upcoming races.

– **Challenges at the Rear**: Takaaki Nakagami, Johann Zarco, and Augusto Fernandez occupied spots from 12th to 15th, respectively. Tragedy struck Pol Espargaro from Tech3 when he experienced a crash due to brake failure, landing him in 17th place. Honda’s test rider, Stefan Bradl, concluded the list.

Racing enthusiasts will have to hold their breath until the next official MotoGP test, scheduled post the race in Valencia come November’s end.