Last Tuesday at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Fermin Aldeguer took his first steps as a MotoGP rider with Gresini Racing, marking an important milestone in his young career. The 19-year-old from Murcia had the opportunity to ride the Desmosedici for the first time in a post-season test, making a promising impression despite the initial challenges. Aldeguer posted the twentieth fastest time, 1.8 seconds behind his teammate, Alex Marquez, in a day he described as “very positive”.
“I can finally feel like a MotoGP rider. I didn’t feel like one until I got on the bike,” said Aldeguer, visibly moved after completing the test. Although he was satisfied with his performance, he admitted that he had hoped to have done a little better. “There is always room for improvement, but as a first day, I am happy with what we achieved,” he added.
Aldeguer’s debut was not without its complications. A crash at Turn 5 before lunch interrupted his rhythm and forced him to restart his learning process. However, the young rider remained positive: “It slowed me down a bit because I had to start again, but I quickly adapted to the controls and, above all, to the braking, which is what impressed me the most.” Aldeguer highlighted the power of the Desmosedici’s brakes and the assistance of the electronics: “At first it seems impossible to brake so late, but the bike responds spectacularly.”
One of the most demanding aspects for Aldeguer was the physical impact of MotoGP riding, especially when braking. “My forearms stiffened up a bit, especially because I was tense and still adapting to the bike,” he explained. He also mentioned that his operated hand swelled slightly due to the low temperatures, which made braking and acceleration manoeuvres more difficult.
Pre-test nerves also played a role. “Half an hour before I got on the bike, I was about to throw up. I was very nervous, but I managed to relax and concentrate, and in the end everything went well,” he said with a smile.
Aldeguer also spent time practising starts, a crucial skill in MotoGP. “I tried six practice starts. Activating the devices is easy, but keeping the throttle open and controlling the clutch is something I need to improve,” he admitted. Laughing, he joked about his failed attempt to imitate Marc Marquez’s impeccable technique.
Another challenge was adapting to the Michelin tyres, which are completely different to the Pirellis he used in Moto2. “The Michelin tyres are asymmetrical and allow you to push harder on one side, but they lose grip when it is colder. I will need more laps to understand them and adapt my riding style,” he added.
Aldeguer was quick to praise the Gresini Racing team for their technical and personal support. “The team has been amazing. They have worked with me step by step to ensure I didn’t feel lost,” he said. He even mentioned a funny joke they played on him the day before the test, which helped him relax ahead of his big debut.
Ducati CEO Gigi Dall’Igna’s interest also left its mark on Aldeguer. “He contacted me after my first run and again at the end of the day. At first I was overwhelmed, but in the end I was able to explain to him what aspects I needed to work on,” he said.
Following his first experience in MotoGP, Fermin Aldeguer has proven that he has the talent and attitude to succeed in the premier class. His performance at the Barcelona test has laid a solid foundation for the pre-season, and his determination promises continued growth in the coming months. With the support of Gresini Racing and Ducati, Aldeguer is ready to take on the challenges of MotoGP and write a new chapter in his career.
