Get ready for some serious MotoGP action because the racing world is buzzing with excitement as Valentino Rossi and the VR46 Riders Academy gear up for the upcoming season! But here’s where it gets even more thrilling: before the official MotoGP test at Sepang kicks off next week, the team is heading to Mandalika for a two-day Superbike training session, thanks to their title sponsor Pertamina. This isn’t just any warm-up—it’s a strategic move to get riders back into the groove after a winter dominated by dirt track training, while also preparing them for the scorching heat and humidity they’ll face in Malaysia. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about speed; it’s about acclimatization and endurance in extreme conditions.
Social media has been ablaze with footage from Mandalika, showcasing Superbikes prepped in the pit garages, each bearing the race numbers of MotoGP stars like Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati), Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia), Luca Marini (Honda), and Franco Morbidelli (Ducati). But here’s the kicker: a #46 Yamaha, belonging to none other than team owner and legend Valentino Rossi, was also spotted, reigniting the passion of fans worldwide. This blend of seasoned veterans and rising talents promises an electrifying season ahead.
Now, here’s where it gets controversial: With Honda’s transition from concession band D to C, none of the VR46 Academy riders are eligible to participate in this week’s Sepang Shakedown (January 29–31). This means their first MotoGP laps of 2026 won’t come until Official testing begins at Sepang on February 3. Is this a setback, or an opportunity for them to focus on their Mandalika training? Let us know what you think in the comments!
Joining the Academy’s MotoGP riders at Mandalika will be Morbidelli’s VR46 teammate Fabio di Giannantonio, along with Celestino Vietti, Andrea Migno, and Matteo Gabarrini. This lineup isn’t just about practice—it’s a testament to the Academy’s commitment to fostering the next generation of racing stars.
And here’s a thought to ponder: As we witness Rossi’s continued involvement in the sport, it’s impossible not to reflect on his legacy. Peter, a paddock veteran of 20 years, has seen Rossi’s rise, fall, and resurgence, alongside major storylines like Suzuki’s exit and Marc Marquez’s injury struggles. What does Rossi’s ongoing presence mean for the future of MotoGP? Is he a mentor, a competitor, or both? Share your thoughts below—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
