Aprilia Racing will begin its 2026 MotoGP campaign at the Sepang Shakedown Test this week, with test rider Lorenzo Savadori handling development duties across both the factory and Trackhouse satellite teams while reigning champion Jorge Martin continues his recovery from surgery.
The Italian manufacturer kicks off its season at the Malaysian circuit with the three-day Shakedown Test running from January 29-31, followed by the official test from February 3-5.
Savadori will shoulder a substantial workload during the tests, working on all eight RS-GP26 machines including those destined for the Trackhouse MotoGP Team, with numerous new solutions scheduled for evaluation.
The veteran test rider will be joined by Marco Bezzecchi for the official test, but reigning MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin will be notably absent from riding duties as he continues his physical recovery program.
Martin underwent two revision surgeries in mid-December to address issues with his left scaphoid and right clavicle. The decision to sideline the Spanish rider for the Malaysian tests is aimed at ensuring his full recovery and peak physical condition ahead of the season opening.
Despite not riding, Martin will be present in Malaysia with the team, closely following the development work on the RS-GP26 and maintaining his involvement with the squad’s preparations.
“At Sepang, I’ll have a lot of work scheduled on all eight bikes, including those of the Trackhouse MotoGP Team, and there will be many new solutions to try, even during the following three days of official testing,” said Savadori.
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“I can’t wait to be back on track and test the RS-GP26. Regarding Jorge, it’s important that he returns to full physical fitness as soon as possible. Of course, it’s a shame not to have him in Malaysia for the tests, but the most important thing is that he recovers well ahead of the start of the season.”
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