Marc Marquez shared his verdict on the new Balaton Park MotoGP circuit ahead of the inaugural race weekend.
On Tuesday, 5th August, the championship leader accompanied all Ducati riders during a track day at the Hungarian circuit to deepen their understanding. Alongside the Italian marque’s test rider, Michele Pirro, the squad rode a Panigale V4 S Pro.
MotoGP returns to Hungary for the first time since 1992, where the Hungaroring previously held races in the 500cc era.
“A great day on track with the entire Ducati Corse squad,” Marquez shared via Ducati’s press release.
“I’m happy; the track layout is unique and unusual. It will require a slightly different riding style; it’s a stop and go track and you’ll need to adapt.
“The faster you get into the rhythm, the better it gets, and you can really enjoy the speed.
“The tarmac is good; they did a great job. I can’t wait to race here with the MotoGP bike.”
Francesco Bagnaia shares his best lap time from the track day
Marquez’s stablemate Francesco Bagnaia was the only rider so far to share his best lap time, as he posted a 1.41.468s, lapping only three seconds clear of WorldSBK’s 1.38.357s.
Although lap times can only provide a rough guide to finding the best braking points, the two-time MotoGP champion had positive things to share about the track layout.
“Getting back on the bike after the holidays is always a pleasure,” said Bagnaia.
“My first impressions of the Balaton track are good. It’s a small circuit, and you have to be careful in the chicanes, but I’m satisfied.
“The layout is unique, and we’re having fun. It’ll be different with the Desmosedici GP, but for now, I’m enjoying the Panigale V4 – even trying to drift it.”
Ducati shared that both Marquez and Bagnaia completed approximately 70 laps in total between them.
The Bologna outfit ended its summer break early to comply with MotoGP regulations, which prohibits any MotoGP rider from riding at Balaton within 15 days of the event.
MotoGP’s first race on its return to Hungary will take place from 22nd to 24th August.
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