Michele Pirro, Ducati test rider, successfully managed to communicate with team manager Davide Tardozzi via a radio system during Tuesday's MotoGP test in Barcelona.

In the opening minutes of the testing session, Pirro’s helmet was equipped with an intercom developed by Dorna, while Tardozzi used a headset with an integrated microphone. This setup allowed the two to exchange spoken messages as Pirro tested the bikes of Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez. Pirro provided real-time feedback to Tardozzi while riding on the track and received input from the team boss.

The company collaborating with Dorna on the system has been cautious about revealing details, but Tardozzi was observed both speaking into the microphone and adjusting his headset to hear Pirro’s responses.

For years, Dorna has been working on a system to facilitate rider-team communication during track sessions. Early iterations involved pre-recorded messages delivered to riders’ helmets. The current development, inspired by Formula 1’s successful radio system, aims to enable live, two-way communication.

While having a full conversation at speeds of 300 km/h remains impractical, the system is designed to allow riders to hear critical comments, warnings, or strategy adjustments from the pit wall. Riders can also provide essential feedback through a helmet microphone.

This technology could have been particularly useful during the San Marino Grand Prix, where Jorge Martin made a tactical bike change after spotting the first drops of rain. With the radio system, Martin could have consulted team principal Gino Borsoi or his chief mechanic for advice before making his decision.