The world of MotoGP is in turmoil after the latest tests and the statements of the protagonists who are outlining an increasingly complex and exciting picture for the 2025 season. Between Ducati, KTM and Yamaha, the tension is palpable, and the internal and external dynamics of the teams promise to ignite next year’s races.
MotoGP champions Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia and Marc Marquez have officially joined forces under the Ducati Factory banner, and their debut as teammates in the GP25 tests has got everyone talking. The common goal is clear: to make the most of the new bike’s potential for the upcoming championship. Despite their differences in riding styles, both riders expressed similar opinions on the GP25, a factor that will greatly simplify technical development over the winter months. Bagnaia stressed that, although the GP25’s engine shows impressive power and the chassis seems well-directed, there are areas where the GP24 is still superior, such as the braking system. However, the alignment between the two riders is a huge advantage for Ducati, as it allows engineers to focus on specific improvements in a more targeted way.
For Marc Marquez, the transition to a full factory team with Ducati represents a new chapter in his remarkable career. After a difficult season on a non-factory bike, the six-time world champion now has access to the same technology as Bagnaia, putting him in a stronger position to compete at the highest level. While Marquez acknowledged that the GP25 still has room for improvement, he was optimistic about the direction the team is taking. The upcoming pre-season tests at Sepang will be crucial to verify progress and prepare the bike for what promises to be an extremely competitive season.
As Ducati strengthens its dominance, KTM faces a time of reflection. The early separation from Jack Miller marked the end of a disappointing season for the Australian rider. Despite the potential of the bike, which stood out for its top speed and engine performance, Miller has highlighted persistent issues, such as vibrations and difficulty in controlling the acceleration zones. These obstacles, combined with his difficulty adapting to the new tyres, have compromised his ability to achieve consistent results. KTM, recognising the need for change, has decided to promote the young talent Pedro Acosta, signalling its desire to renew the team with new energy and ideas.
Miller, meanwhile, is preparing for a new adventure with the Pramac Yamaha team for 2025. With a wealth of experience accumulated at Honda, Ducati and KTM, the Australian presents himself as a valuable addition to the development of the Yamaha bike. Flanked by Miguel Oliveira, Miller aims to contribute to the competitive relaunch of the Japanese brand, which has shown signs of recovery in recent tests thanks to the work of Fabio Quartararo.
Another significant chapter closes with the retirement of Aleix Espargaró, who rode his final MotoGP race in 2024 at his home circuit of Barcelona. With a career that began in 2004, Espargaró has left an indelible mark on the paddock, becoming an example of determination and resilience. His successes with Aprilia, including the historic win in Argentina in 2022, represent the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Espargaró stressed that his journey shows how perseverance can overcome pure talent, a message he hopes will inspire future generations.
With 2025 just around the corner, the MotoGP landscape is becoming more and more intriguing. Ducati seems to have a winning combination with Bagnaia and Marquez, but will have to deal with a resurgent Yamaha and a KTM determined to correct the mistakes of the past. Jack Miller, with his move to Yamaha, and the retirement of Espargaró add further elements of novelty and change. The next championship promises to be one of the most competitive and unpredictable in recent years, and fans can’t wait to see how these stories will intertwine on the track.