The MotoGP world is abuzz with excitement as the Chang International Circuit in Buriram prepares to host a crucial two-day test this week. Set to offer teams and riders a final chance to fine-tune their bikes before the upcoming season kicks off at the same venue in early March, this event is poised to provide a clearer glimpse into the competitive hierarchy of the MotoGP grid.
Scheduled for the 12th and 13th of February, the Buriram pre-season test is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for all involved in the high-octane world of motorcycle racing. With all five manufacturers having already amassed significant data at the Sepang International Circuit in the previous week, the upcoming test is anticipated to paint a more definitive picture of the pecking order among the elite riders.
Who’s in the Lineup?
Out of the 22 full-season riders on the MotoGP grid, a total of 20 are expected to grace the track at Buriram for this crucial test. However, the absence of reigning champion Jorge Martin looms large over the event, as the Spanish rider was forced to return to his homeland after sustaining injuries to his right hand and left foot during a crash at the Sepang test.
In a similar vein, Fabio di Giannantonio of VR46 faced a setback when he broke his left collarbone while executing a wheelie in Sepang. The Italian rider had to undergo surgery upon his return to Europe, adding to the list of notable absentees at the upcoming Buriram test. On the contrary, Trackhouse’s Raul Fernandez managed a swift recovery from his injuries, arriving in Thailand after successfully undergoing surgery for a fractured finger on his left hand.
The mix of injuries and recoveries sets the stage for a test filled with anticipation and intrigue, as fans and experts alike eagerly await the on-track action and performances of the MotoGP elite.
Following the Action
Much like the preceding Sepang test, fans will not have the luxury of watching the Buriram test on television or online, as Dorna’s production team will not be filming the event. However, MotoGP enthusiasts can stay updated on the proceedings through a live timing service available on the official MotoGP website, albeit for a nominal fee.
For those craving more in-depth coverage and analysis, Autosport will have a dedicated team on the ground at Buriram, providing live updates, reports, and reactions directly from the heart of the paddock. This firsthand perspective promises to offer fans a unique behind-the-scenes look at the dynamics and narratives unfolding within the MotoGP ecosystem.
As the anticipation builds and the engines rev up at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram, the MotoGP community braces itself for a test that could potentially set the tone for an exhilarating season ahead. With riders vying for supremacy and teams fine-tuning their machinery, the stage is set for a riveting showcase of speed, skill, and spectacle.
Whether you’re a seasoned MotoGP enthusiast or a newcomer to the sport, the Buriram test promises to deliver a thrilling blend of competition, drama, and adrenaline-fueled action. Stay tuned as the world’s premier motorcycle racing series gears up for an electrifying display of talent and tenacity on the tarmac.
