As the new MotoGP season approaches, former MotoGP rider and 250cc champion Marco Melandri makes some predictions based on his recent observations during tests and presentations in Malaysia. He notes that Marco Bezzecchi and the Aprilia team have shown significant competitiveness, particularly noting improvements in their performance due to the efforts of the new technical director, Sterlacchini. Melandri acknowledges that while some explosiveness on certain tracks may have been lost, they have become much more competitive in areas where they previously struggled.

Regarding the reigning champion, Marc Marquez, Melandri points out that he remains the rider to beat, emphasizing his comprehensive skills. However, he also mentions concerns over Marquez's physical and mental state, suggesting that he is trying to preserve energy for the races after a particularly demanding previous season. Melandri describes Marquez as being in a phase of maturity as a racer, which could lead to a different racing strategy from him this season.

On the topic of Ducati, Melandri remarks that the 2026 motorcycle development is continuing in the direction established with the 2024 model. He believes that they are effectively leveraging the work done on previous models to enhance their performance aerodynamically. This insight into the dynamics of the teams gives fans and analysts a glimpse of the shifting competitive landscape in the MotoGP as teams prepare for the challenges of the new season.