MotoGP confirms 2019 pre-season test dates

Series organisers announced in June a reduction in the number of pre-season tests, with the slot filled by Phillip Island and Buriram in recent years being dropped for 2019.

It leaves just the Sepang test, which will take place on 6-8 February after the end of the winter test ban, and the Qatar test, which will be held on the earlier date of 23-25 February ahead of the opening round of the season in March.

A shakedown at Sepang will also be held on 1-3 February prior to the first official test at the same venue.

Prior to the winter test ban, the traditional post-Valencia test will take place on 20-21 November, with another two-day test at Jerez happening a week later on 28-29 November before the winter shutdown.

Jerez had been a popular venue for private testing for some teams in recent seasons, but now becomes an official test as part of MotoGP's plan to compensate for the reduction in in-season testing.

Next year, factory teams without concessions will lose their allowance of five private test days, to be replaced by a two-day group test at a yet-to-be confirmed venue.

The practice of holding a Monday test after three European races will continue, however.