We’re just a couple of weeks shy from the first Official MotoGP™ Test of 2023 at the Sepang International Circuit and as training schedules ramp up for the premier class grid, the VR46 Riders Academy ventured to the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve for a couple of days of laying down the rubber on Portugal’s famous rollercoaster. And a familiar number 46 decided to join in on the fun.
Reigning MotoGP™ World Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) was rocking his new number 1 plate on his Ducati V4S and revealed he set an impressive 1:43.286 lap time, which isn’t too far shy from Fabio Quartararo’s (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) 2022 1:39.435 Grand Prix race lap record in Portimao.
Joining Pecco on Ducati’s stellar superbike was Mooney VR46 Racing Team duo Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi, with Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) lapping with his fellow Italians on Yamaha’s R1M. Also getting his leg over a Yamaha superbike was a certain nine-time World Champion – Valentino Rossi.
The Doctor, fresh from claiming a podium at the 24 Hours of Dubai, declared on social media that “motorcycle season is officially open” as he swapped four wheels for two in Portimao, the circuit that hosts the 2023 season opener at the end of March.