Pata Maxus Yamaha Wraps Up Productive Jerez Test with Locatelli and Vierge on Top Form

Intensive two-day winter test in Spain shows strong performance and development progress for the 2026 FIM Superbike World Championship

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Pata Maxus Yamaha’s 2026 riders, Andrea Locatelli and Xavi Vierge, completed two days of testing at Circuito de Jerez, Spain. The test forms part of the team’s winter preparations for the 2026 FIM Superbike World Championship.

New signing Xavi Vierge impressed with the second-fastest lap of 1:38.058. He completed 132 laps on the Yamaha R1 WorldSBK. Riding on Pirelli’s qualifying tyre, Vierge set a personal best at Jerez. He also recorded another personal-best on race-spec tyres.

Vierge adapted quickly to the bike and the team. Just a month after his first ride with Pata Maxus Yamaha, he showed professionalism and gave precise feedback.

Andrea Locatelli led the first day with the fastest lap, closely followed by Vierge. On day two, Locatelli tested new development parts from Yamaha engineers. He finished only half a tenth slower than Vierge. Entering his sixth season with Pata Maxus Yamaha, Locatelli made progress in rear grip, turning, and electronics. He also started working with his new Crew Chief, championship-winner Giulio Nava.

Andrea Locatelli – 1:38.135 (138 Laps):
“It was a good test. Track conditions changed quickly compared to yesterday, but we made a lot of progress. The bike feels more confident and the new parts helped improve rear grip. Working with Giulio is going well, and we now have a clear direction for January.”

Paul Denning, Team Principal – Pata Maxus Yamaha:
“This was a very solid test. Xavi impressed with personal-best laps on both qualifying and race tyres. Locatelli tested many new parts successfully. We made progress on rear grip, turning, and electronics strategies. The team worked efficiently with five bikes in the pit box. Everyone did a brilliant job.”

Pata Maxus Yamaha will return to Jerez at the end of January for the next winter test. Preparations continue for the 2026 FIM Superbike World Championship.