The GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team returned to action at the Circuito de Jerez–Ángel Nieto in Spain for a two-day private test on 21–22 January, as Stefano Manzi and Remy Gardner completed valuable mileage ahead of the 2026 WorldSBK season.
The opening day of the test was heavily impacted by wet conditions, with rain persisting throughout the session. Stefano Manzi took to the track in the morning on wet tyres, experiencing the Yamaha R1 in the rain for the first time. The 2025 WorldSSP Champion completed 28 laps, setting a personal best of 1’55.044, which placed him fourth on the timesheets.
As the weather worsened in the afternoon, Manzi opted to remain in the garage to preserve valuable test time for the upcoming season. On the other side of the garage, Remy Gardner also chose not to run on Day 1 due to the conditions.
Conditions remained tricky on the second and final day, with a damp track in the morning following overnight rain. As the circuit gradually dried, both riders were able to complete useful laps on dry tarmac. Manzi completed 36 laps, recording a best time of 1’40.347, while Gardner completed 34 laps, setting a fastest lap of 1’41.249.
Unfortunately, rain returned at 16:00 local time, forcing the GYTR GRT Yamaha riders to end the test earlier than planned. Manzi and Gardner will return to action next week at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal for another two-day private test as preparations for the 2026 WorldSBK season continue.
Stefano Manzi – 1’40.347
“Finally we’re back in action, and I couldn’t wait to get back on track to improve my feeling with the Yamaha R1. On Day 1 we were able to ride in wet conditions, which could be useful during the season as we may face similar situations. On the second day we finally had dry conditions and managed to complete some good laps. Unfortunately, the rain in the afternoon disrupted our work plan and we missed some valuable track time, but we have another two-day test next week in Portugal to continue working and improving.”
Remy Gardner – 1’41.249
“It was great to be back on the Yamaha R1 and to see everyone again. Unfortunately, the weather limited our track time, so we had to manage our test days carefully. On the second day we finally rode in dry conditions, which helped me regain my feeling on the bike. The rain returned in the afternoon and forced us to stop early, but overall it was a good way to restart, and we’ll keep working next week in Portugal.”
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