Ducati gives 19-year-old MotoAmerica rider her first MotoGP test

Not many young riders get the chance to ride a current MotoGP factory bike. Last weekend, Kayla Yaakov joined this exclusive group. As part of World Ducati Week in Misano, the 19-year-old American was given the opportunity to test Marc Marquez’s Ducati Desmosedici GP26. She also completed laps on Nicolo Bulega’s Ducati Superbike – further proof of the standing she has now achieved within the Ducati family.

“It’s not every day you get the chance to ride a factory bike from the Superbike World Championship and a MotoGP bike,” Ducati wrote afterwards on social media. “Today, Kayla got to experience Nicolo Bulega’s and Marc Marquez’s bikes on the legendary Misano World Circuit.”

Kayla Yaakov is making a big impression in MotoAmerica

The invitation is no coincidence. Yaakov had already turned heads at the start of the season with her podium finish at the Daytona 200, where she finished ahead of former MotoGP rider Darryn Binder, amongst others. She is also regularly among the leading riders in the MotoAmerica Supersport Championship.

Einmaliges Erlebnis: Kayla Yaakov testete die Werks-Desmosedici von Marquez

Foto: Kayla Yaakov

Her compatriot Garrett Gerloff, who gained some experience in MotoGP in 2020 and 2021, is closely following Kayla Yaakov’s progress. Speaking to SPEEDWEEK.com, the Kawasaki rider praised her consistent progress in particular.

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“My wife and I follow her races. What she’s shown recently has been really impressive. She’s always right up there at the front,” said Gerloff. “She’s racing against big names. She’s clever, works incredibly hard, and it’s great to see how she’s progressed from the 300cc class all the way up to Supersport.”

Garret Gerloff auf der MotoGP-Yamaha

Foto: Yamaha

The Texan even believes Yaakov has what it takes to make the leap to Europe in the long term, but knows from his own experience how difficult this path is for American riders. “I hope she gets the chance to race in the Supersport World Championship or even the Superbike World Championship,” explained Gerloff. “Making the move from America to Europe isn’t easy. She needs to keep delivering good results and prove she has the pace. I’ll definitely be supporting her.”

Will mentor Ben Spies open further doors?

Yaakov is already receiving support from a prominent figure. Ben Spies, the 2009 Superbike World Champion and former Yamaha MotoGP works rider, is working with the Rahal-Ducati team. “As far as I know, Ben helps the riders with his experience. He’s certainly a great support,” said Gerloff of his former mentor.

Ben Spies mit Kayla Yaakov

Foto: MotoAmerica

Following her highly acclaimed performance at Misano, Yaakov’s focus is already on the next challenge. This weekend, MotoAmerica is visiting the legendary Laguna Seca circuit. The 19-year-old is travelling to California in fourth place overall. The championship is currently led by Ducati rider Darryn Binder, ahead of his team-mate Josh Herrin and Suzuki rider Tyler Scott.