Maverick Vinales Optimistic with KTM at Sepang 2026

MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Maverick Vinales believes his ability to deliver a competitive lap on the opening day of the 2026 Sepang MotoGP Test is a positive indicator for the latest Red Bull KTM Factory Racing package, despite the low-grip track conditions.

KTM completed a far more productive Sepang pre-season test compared to last year. The Austrian manufacturer adopted a more aggressive approach with its RC16 development items, and across the three days of running the bike showed competitive potential. However, a combination of technical factors and track conditions prevented KTM from producing a fully representative time attack run on the final day.

Rookie Pedro Acosta emerged as KTM’s leading performer in eighth overall, while Vinales ended the final day classified 14th. Nevertheless, Vinales’ fourth place on day one has been viewed as a key reference, particularly as it was achieved when grip levels were still limited.

“Basically, the bike we had straight away gave me a really good feeling and feedback,” said Vinales.
“Especially for me, the most important thing was that at the end of day one I could hit a good lap time, and that is a good sign because normally there is not much grip on the first day.”

“If you have a bike that works without grip, it means you can be competitive,” he added.
“So we will keep this direction and try to improve it further in Thailand.”

Vinales admitted that the set-up direction explored on the final day did not suit his preferences. The bike package he rode on Tuesday has now been confirmed as the baseline heading into the Buriram test on 21–22 February, ahead of the opening round of the 2026 MotoGP season in Thailand the following weekend.