With team-mate Maverick Viñales still sidelined, Bastianini once again carried the team’s sole representation in the premier class, focusing on a full programme of setup work and evaluation of new components for KTM’s RC16.

The Italian completed a total of 43 laps, setting a best time of 1’36.687 in the afternoon session, as track conditions remained favourable throughout the day, allowing for consistent running and valuable data collection. A top speed of 298.3 km/h came in the morning stint, with only three other riders going quicker than ‘La Bestia’ across both sessions.

Throughout the test, Bastianini and his crew concentrated on improving overall feeling with the bike, working through different configurations aimed at enhancing corner entry stability and rear grip, key areas identified during recent race weekends.

Enea Bastianini: “I can be happy about the test today, I think we worked hard and it went well. During the morning session I tested several parts for the factory, including a new fairing and some rear components and then in the afternoon we focused on some of the areas that I have been struggling with. One key priority, which I’ve spoken about, is the difficulties I’ve had with the tyres during the race, so I ran a used set this afternoon to try and understand this more and gain some more data that we can look at. I think this was really successful and I felt good on the bike today. I wasn’t able to complete a Time Attack, but my other laps were very competitive, and I was close to the field in front of me. I’m pleased with the progress we’ve made today, and I think for Le Mans we can be competitive.”

Nicolas Goyon, Team Manager: “As we saw during Austin week and the Grand Prix here at the weekend, the overall atmosphere has been much more positive, and that’s also the case today.
“We tested a few components on the bike and had a run with the new aero package, which addresses some of the weak points that we have. We also tried a few different combinations, and some of those clearly put a smile on Enea’s face. Now we’re full of confidence and ready to head to Le Mans for the fifth round of the championship.”

The test follows a solid Grand Prix of Spain for Bastianini, who showed strong pace throughout the weekend. After securing direct entry to Q2 for the second consecutive round, the Italian was competitive from the outset.

In Saturday’s Sprint, Bastianini ran inside the Top Ten and was in contention for a strong result before a sudden rain shower disrupted proceedings, leaving him unable to capitalise on his pace.

Sunday’s 25-lap Grand Prix was held in dry conditions, and Bastianini delivered a consistent performance to finish 8th, scoring valuable points and leading the KTM charge in Jerez. Overall, the weekend marked further improvement as he continues to adapt to the KTM RC16.

Tech3’s focus now shifts to the team’s home race in Le Mans next week (8-10 May) with the aim of building on the momentum gained in Spain to convert Bastianini’s continued progress into even stronger race results.