Injuries ღplayed a big part, of course, with the four-time Gresini Ducati race winner missing ni𝔉ne of the 20 Sunday races.

But even when he wasn’t hurt, the Italian struggled to feel comfortable on the GP23, which notably required𒁃 a different corner-entry technique.

The good news for 'Bastia' is that an early version of the GP24 tried at the Valencia test was closer to the old feeling during brakinꦿg and entry. But he🅺 knows that maximising the upcoming six days of pre-season testing in Sepang and Qatar will be crucial.

"2023 was a challenging year, and I look forw🏅ard to redeeming myself in the upcoming season. We have an exciting 2024 ahead of us,” Bastianini said at Monday’s Ducati Lenovo team launch.

“When I hopped on the new bike for 2024 ꧟[at Valencia], I found myself at ease. I was really comfort꧂able. It was a small change, but I could feel the differences between this bike and the previous one. I think that in Sepang there will be further ‘news’.

“I need to do more tests,” he added. “Last year I was given a bike that was already rea💦dy. I couldn't test it 🌊as I wanted and today the details make all the difference. That's why I want to test more. But I feel physically fit. I feel ready and I'm fully motivated.”

The Sepang test takes place from February 6-8.