The MotoGP 2025 season is off to an unconventional start. Unlike previous years, the first official test at the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit brought minimal innovation to the forefront. Manufacturers and teams have chosen to reserve their groundbreaking advancements for the highly anticipated shakedown test at Sepang, Malaysia, scheduled from January 31 to February 2.
This strategy reflects a growing emphasis on confidentiality and preparation in a competitive environment. To meet the manufacturers’ demands, organizers IRTA and Dorna have introduced unprecedented restrictions on media access during the shakedown, ensuring that teams can work without distractions or risks of leaks.
“Maximum Security” Media Rules for the 2025 Shakedown
The shakedown at Sepang will operate under the following strict media guidelines:
- Controlled access: Entry will be tightly regulated by IRTA and Dorna, although permanent passes from the 2024 season will remain valid.
- Restricted zones: Media access will be confined to the paddock and designated safe zones. The pit lane—the hub of technical activity—will be completely off-limits.
- No press room: The media center will remain closed throughout the shakedown.
- No filming or photography: Capturing action scenes or any activity from service roads, the pit lane, or vantage points around the track is strictly forbidden.
- Limited interviews: Only pre-arranged interviews with teams or riders will be permitted, eliminating any unscheduled interactions.
- Further restrictions on February 3-4: Filming on the circuit premises will remain prohibited unless explicitly approved by the Commercial Media Department.
These measures emphasize the manufacturers’ desire for privacy and focus as they test their cutting-edge technologies and strategies.
A Critical Opportunity for Manufacturers
The shakedown serves as a vital stage for teams to assess and refine their latest advancements without the scrutiny of competitors or the media. For Honda and Yamaha, classified under the Concession Manufacturer Program (Category D), this test is particularly crucial as they strive to regain their footing after challenging seasons. It’s a make-or-break moment for evaluating new engines, chassis, and electronic systems before they face the full grid.
The test will feature a lineup of 19 riders, including test riders, new entrants, and official riders from Honda and Yamaha. This diverse group underscores the importance of the shakedown in shaping the grid’s competitive dynamics for the 2025 season.
What to Expect After the Shakedown
Following the shakedown, the official Sepang test from February 5-7 will offer a more traditional setup. The media will have full access to the press room, pit lane, and on-track activities, providing fans and journalists alike a closer look at the teams’ preparations.
Why the Tight Restrictions Matter
While the shakedown’s strict guidelines may frustrate media professionals, they reflect the growing importance of strategic preparation in MotoGP. Teams and manufacturers are under immense pressure to maximize performance and protect their technological advancements, especially in an era where every millisecond matters.
Conclusion
The message from the MotoGP Shakedown 2025 is clear: “We need peace to work effectively.” By prioritizing privacy and focus, teams hope to enter the season with their setups fully optimized. While fans and media will have to wait for the open Sepang test, this controlled environment ensures that the innovations unveiled during the season are truly race-ready. For MotoGP enthusiasts, the anticipation of what lies ahead only adds to the excitement.
