Two MotoGP test riders delivered standout performances at a dramatic and unpredictable French Grand Prix, emerging with impressive top-10 finishes in wet conditions at Le Mans.
Takaaki Nakagami made his return to racing as a wildcard entry for Honda, marking his first MotoGP appearance since stepping down from full-time competition at the end of 2024. Starting from last on the grid, Nakagami opted to begin the race on wet tyres – a decision that paid off. Navigating the chaos, he brought the bike home in sixth, his best grand prix result since finishing fifth at the 2021 Styrian GP.
“I didn’t expect that chaos in the Sunday race,” Nakagami told MotoGP.com. “It was super tricky, but I think my decision was correct. P6 was a gift for the team. I’m so happy.”
Meanwhile, Aprilia’s test rider Lorenzo Savadori also capitalised on the treacherous conditions, finishing ninth for his best-ever result in MotoGP. Having spent most of the season replacing the injured Jorge Martin, Savadori’s previous best finish was 11th at Assen in 2023.
Savadori started at the back of the grid but made steady progress through the pack before suffering a drop in grip due to his medium rain tyres. Despite that, he was satisfied with the result.
“It was a great race and a good result,” he said. “It’s a shame about the tyre performance drop, otherwise we could have done even better. I dedicate this result to Fabrizio Borra, my physiotherapist who recently passed away.”
Both performances were welcome boosts for Honda and Aprilia as they continue to develop their packages in a challenging 2025 season.
