Report: KTM's MotoGP Initiative Remains Resilient Despite Internal Turmoil

During the 2025 launch event, KTM conveyed a strong message of unwavering determination.

Consider the plight of the many KTM employees who endured a bleak holiday season, uncertain about the security of their jobs and when they might receive their salaries.

As the saying goes, the show must continue, and in Austria, KTM is committed to its motorsport division's mantra of 'Ready To Race.' On Thursday, the manufacturer, which finished second last year, kicked off its 2025 campaign by unveiling the new uniform livery that will be used by its factory team as well as its closely-aligned Tech3 satellite team that receives factory support.

KTM prevented its riders from having to answer inquiries regarding the company's current bankruptcy issues. However, aware that they couldn't completely avoid the topic, they had motorsport chief Pit Beirer step forward to address the press.

Starting from December 20, KTM has consistently asserted its intention to participate in the 2025 season. Speculation about a possible halt in development—which might not have a significant effect given the rule changes set for 2027—and about its prominent rider, Pedro Acosta, possibly exploring other opportunities for 2026, has only fueled the existing uncertainty.

In a nod to important moments that determine KTM's future, Beirer likened them to "Dakar stages," highlighting the brand's recent success in the renowned rally-raid event this month. Amid the turmoil, Beirer demonstrated the clear and open leadership necessary to navigate such challenging times.

“It was a particularly tough winter, but we all worked together to maintain the essence of this company, which is our passion and our way of life,” Beirer stated.

"I've spent two decades at this place, and not a single day felt like just a job. Instead, I joined forces with thousands of coworkers to pursue a shared dream of contributing to this motorcycle manufacturing plant."

"We are doing everything possible to maintain our current situation. Our strategy involves reducing operations to a scale that allows us to be leaner yet remain robust. Despite these adjustments, we will continue to employ over 4,000 people in Mattighofen, and that is our primary goal."

"The company faced challenging times, and it’s not yet resolved. Even if the outcome on February 25th is positive, the following day won’t be a walk in the park. However, I assure you we have an exceptionally robust strategy in place for the company’s future, which extends beyond just a few years. This commitment also applies to our involvement in racing. We aim for KTM to have a lasting presence, including our racing division."

KTM is grappling with financial difficulties and is set to present its restructuring proposal to creditors for approval. The plan suggests repaying 30% of its €2.2 billion debt. A vote on this proposal is scheduled for February 25, just ahead of the start of the 2025 MotoGP season in Thailand.

Testing is set to kick off next week in Malaysia, where Pedro Acosta, Brad Binder, Maverick Vinales, Enea Bastianini, along with the whole racing team, will take to the Sepang track under uncertain circumstances. If the decision doesn't favor KTM – despite the camp's cautious optimism – they will enter the 2025 season without clarity about their future prospects.

The management team in the MotoGP division has a very challenging job ahead of them. Despite this, when Crash.net asked Beirer about the situation, he firmly expressed his confidence in his team.

He expressed his satisfaction with having a robust team both at home and on the race track. He also mentioned the impressive group of four young men who are fully committed, adding that motivating them is the least of his concerns.

Their enthusiasm is beyond what one can imagine, and they are integral to our team. Our collective goal is to present ourselves as a powerful unit and deliver a strong performance. While we can't control the larger events, we can concentrate on our responsibilities and excel in the racing section. I believe we are thoroughly prepared, and the riders are poised to excel.

Pedro is currently part of our team and is under contract with us. We had two meetings during this period; once he visited with his manager, and more recently, all four riders were together at the Red Bull training center. We have provided them with all the resources necessary for success this year: the team is ready, the bike is prepared, and we are fully committed to achieving our goals. Their motivation is at an all-time high, and you’ll witness their enthusiasm in action soon.

This crisis is particularly ironic because it occurs during a period when KTM boasts what is arguably the most formidable combination of factory and satellite riders in MotoGP. Each of their four riders has claimed world champion titles in the lower racing categories, and with the exception of Acosta, all have secured multiple grand prix victories in the MotoGP series.

Uncertainty Surrounds Pedro Acosta's Future with KTM

Pedro Acosta's performance raises questions. In 2024, the young Spanish rider managed to secure nine podium finishes in both sprints and grand prix events, meeting the high expectations set for his rookie season. Despite not clinching a victory, it wasn't due to a lack of effort. His best chance in Japan slipped through his fingers following a crash, a moment that seemed to capture the essence of his entire season.

As expected, the ambiguity surrounding KTM's racing prospects has drawn significant attention to Acosta's career plans. Rumors suggest that Ducati has shown interest, and there have been speculations connecting the 20-year-old to Valentino Rossi’s team. However, VR46 dismissed these rumors earlier this week.

Acosta, who clinched the Moto3 championship in his first year and followed it up with a Moto2 victory in his sophomore season, is widely regarded as a potential talent for his generation. As a rider nurtured by KTM, it's not an exaggeration to say that the brand's future has largely depended on him for quite some time. This statement holds even more weight today.

After KTM's launch on Thursday, Acosta demonstrated maturity in his reaction to the circumstances. This positioned him as the type of leader on the track that the brand might rely on as it steers through these unpredictable times.

He mentioned that their primary focus is maintaining speed on the track. Ultimately, achieving victory is the most significant support they can offer to everyone involved.

KTM's 'No Nonsense Policy'

Beirer emphasized that the ongoing restructuring process has underscored the significance of racing in KTM's business strategy. During his interactions with the media, he never indicated that there might be a reduction in the MotoGP project. Naturally, the ultimate decision isn't entirely up to KTM at the moment. However, there is a strong sense of optimism about the project's future, as Beirer revealed that plans are already underway for their 2027 model.

As Beirer highlighted, the timing of KTM's financial difficulties has turned out to be rather fortuitous. Starting with the first race in 2025, MotoGP plans to implement an engine freeze that will remain in place until the conclusion of 2026. KTM's engine is quite powerful, and its bike currently boasts the highest top speed record in MotoGP.

Every component for 2025 was planned financially long before KTM faced its most severe monetary issues, placing the company in a strong position as it approaches testing. Should it continue into 2026, it's expected that there will be minimal alterations to this year's motorcycles due to the significant regulatory overhaul anticipated for the next season.

Following the tests conducted at the end of 2024, the 2025 RC16 has laid a strong groundwork for KTM. This gives the company a solid chance to significantly reduce the 395-point gap that Ducati created between them during the previous season's constructors' championship competition.

Stepping into the role of team manager in the factory KTM garage is Aki Ajo, renowned for his success in nurturing talent in the junior categories. Binder describes him as having a "no-nonsense approach." This attitude is expected to benefit KTM significantly this year, as Ajo aims to streamline different aspects of the racing operations. This is particularly crucial after last year, when KTM appeared to be in a constant state of trying to catch up.

Ajo mentioned that technology plays a significant role in MotoGP. When questioned by Crash about whether simplifying certain elements could lead to success for KTM this season, he said that you can't always oppose everything in the sport.

"I believe it's crucial to maintain simplicity wherever possible. It's essential to concentrate on keeping things straightforward. My former and current riders often chuckle because I frequently remind them to 'keep it simple, focus on the important aspects,' and so on. However, I am convinced that these principles are vital in any job, particularly in racing. Additionally, I am confident that our technical package is excellent."

"In my opinion, it's crucial to maintain simplicity by maximizing the potential of what you have. This doesn't just apply to the bike, but also to the team, the riders, and every aspect involved. It's important to identify our strengths and avoid always rushing to introduce new things. We should focus on what truly matters and keep things straightforward."

KTM found reason for optimism after its recent launch, particularly in the feedback from its riders. Instead of the typical ambiguous statements like "we'll see how it goes," the riders expressed more definitive opinions. Vinales shared his confidence that he now has a bike capable of competing on the track. Binder suggested that the difference in performance compared to Ducati is not as significant as it appears. Meanwhile, Bastianini insisted that KTM should maintain the unique characteristics of their current bike rather than attempt to replicate the Desmosedici.

As KTM embarks on its ninth season in MotoGP, the company appears to have a solid base. This marks one year beyond former CEO Stefan Pierer's initial goal of competing for a championship within eight years, and two years since its last grand prix victory at the Thai GP in 2022.

The parent company faces ongoing challenges as it navigates uncertain times for the racing team. However, sports often see triumph emerge from adversity. Armed with its most formidable lineup yet, a seemingly competitive setup, and the drive that comes with battling to survive, KTM approaches the 2025 MotoGP season with determination and resilience.

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Somkiat Chantra receives a pair of "fresh" motorcycles for the Sepang MotoGP Shakedown trial

"My team is now assigning me to focus on the 2025 motorcycle…”

Somkiat Chantra is among the trio of newcomers in the current MotoGP season, yet his commencement was postponed during the Sepang MotoGP Shakedown trial this weekend.

The rider from Thailand did not participate in the initial day of the three-day trial, only appearing on the subsequent second and third days.

"Chantra mentioned, "We were given three days for testing, but I only spent two days on testing since the team needed two days to get the bike prepared for the tests."

He clarified that his absence on the initial day was due to the availability of two new, 2025-spec Honda RC213Vs for him to use this weekend.

"He mentioned, 'My bicycle is completely fresh compared to the one in Barcelona, hence I now possess two bicycles that are brand new.'"

Currently, my group is interested in having me engage with the 2025 bike to evaluate its progress in comparison to the 2024 model.

Once Chantra started, his speed was not as fast as the other two newcomers this year, Ai Ogura and Fermin Aldeguer, yet it showed progress from one day to the next.

"Every initial day, as usual, my approach is to inspect the bike and familiarize myself with its electronics, aiming to understand the bike's electronic components," he explained.

"I made an effort to utilize the device effectively in advantageous spots since my comparison with Taka [Takaaki Nakagami] from the previous year showed that there were moments where my timing to activate the rear device lagged behind his. Currently, we're moving towards a positive path."

Nakagami, who transitioned to an official HRC test rider following his retirement, has been instrumental for Chantra over these three days. He has not only shared the track with the Japanese rider but also analyzed his data.

"He mentioned, "On Saturday, I spent my time hanging out with Taka."

Taka mentioned, "You're having an effortless ride," to which I happily embraced being in the lead, acknowledging that now is the perfect time to begin working with the motorcycle and truly connect with it.

"He remained silent about it all yesterday, indicating that during the formal examination, they would approach me."

Fermin Aldeguer mentioned post-Shakedown that the most significant adjustment to MotoGP for him involved mastering the braking technique. For Chantra, the challenge wasn't just the braking but also adapting to the increased speed, the tyres, and the angle of leaning.

"He mentioned that the initial challenge for him was the pace, stating, 'the hardest aspect to adjust to is the speed.' He also highlighted difficulties with determining when to halt the motorcycle. Transitioning to carbon brakes has altered his braking points compared to those in Moto2, and the velocity at which he enters corners is distinct from his previous experience in Moto2."

He stated, “Upon utilizing Michelin for the initial instance, upon our arrival here, it provided a significantly different sensation compared to Moto2, to a great extent.

"Additionally, regarding the angle of lean, it feels as though I'm continuously leaning, yet when I assess it against Taka's, mine is significantly less. However, my team constantly reassures me, saying, 'Certainly, this will improve shortly, you must progress gradually.'"

On the last day of the trials, Chantra emerged as a standout participant, highlighting the fitness efforts required for the Thai competitor to prepare for the upcoming season.

"Indeed, I'm pretty much ruined, yet I'm aware," Chantra remarked about his state after finishing the exam.

"When I initially made the move to Moto2, my body was completely worn out, but over time, it adjusted to the bike and everything turned out fine."

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Ducati's CEO makes intriguing comments about Marc Marquez's potential development

Claudio Domenicali offers further insight into the choice to bring Marc Marquez on board

The CEO of Ducati believes that Marc Marquez has the potential to contribute to the development of the company, its engineering team, and his fellow rider.

Ducati's choice to select Marquez for their factory team instead of Jorge Martin will face scrutiny as the 2025 season begins.

In addition to securing an eight-time world champion, Ducati is well aware that they are also welcoming a major marketing and sponsorship force into their team alongside Pecco Bagnaia.

Claudio Domenicali mentioned to Sky Italy that the decision was difficult since Martin was not only a Ducati racer but also extremely quick.

"Our belief is that this team holds the greatest potential for expanding the company, as the level of talent naturally sustains itself."

"We believe that Marc has the potential to help Pecco develop, and Pecco, in turn, can contribute to Marc's growth. Together, they can also drive progress among the engineers

"We believe it will be even harder for competitors to surpass the Ducati Lenovo Team."

Ducati acknowledges they "can't conceal"

The focus will remain on the dynamics between Marquez and Bagnaia, both aiming for the world championship title this year, as they have the most competitive motorcycle in MotoGP.

The way Ducati manages the personal goals of its team members might significantly impact the outcome.

"According to Domenicali, the key elements are overcoming obstacles, achieving balance, and securing victory."

"When you have a team including Pecco, who has competed for the last four world championships and claimed victory in two of them, and Marc, an eight-time world champion, it's impossible to stay out of the spotlight.”

"Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcomes. The races are consistently challenging, and success also hinges on the performance of our competitors."

A central focus will be ensuring an equitable competition between the two cyclists, as both aim for the same objective, but ultimately, only one can achieve it.

"This is the aspect we focus on more closely."

The combination of Marquez and Bagnaia, who have the GP25 at their disposal, is still a formidable team.

Especially as the 2024 MotoGP champion Martin needs to protect his title while getting accustomed to riding an Aprilia.

This year, Ducati has two fewer motorcycles in the race lineup than they did last year, yet they are still anticipated to lead as the top manufacturer.

At the Ducati event, Domenicali mentioned that Michele Pirro had remarked on the remarkable gathering of talented individuals on stage.

"I think the crucial factor is the skill of the riders, along with the expertise of the engineers and technicians who have developed a successful approach over time. This achievement fills us with pride and gives us hope as we begin."

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For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, where he reported on a wide range of events including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

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Aleix Espargaro's performance at the Sepang MotoGP pre-season testing didn't meet his expectations.

"The first day was dominated by Taka, followed by a rainy second day…"

Aleix Espargaro returned to the testing track for HRC during this weekend's Sepang MotoGP Shakedown test, but schedule adjustments and inclement weather necessitated alterations to his agenda.

Despite facing challenges, Espargaro managed to achieve the third quickest lap time on the last day of testing, clocking in at 1:58.103. This time was quicker than any of the Honda racers, except for Johann Zarco, during the qualifying round at the previous Malaysian Grand Prix.

The Spaniard mentioned that he hardly took a break from riding since the last official test in Barcelona, which occurred in November.

"Indeed, my cycling activities haven't paused since last year; following Barcelona, I moved on to Jerez, then Thailand, and now I'm here," Espargaro shared with MotoGP.com.

"Undoubtedly, we're on a mission with a significant amount of tasks ahead. Therefore, we're doing everything we can, maximizing our time on the track to support our factory team members."

"Regrettably, my performance on the track did not meet my expectations as the first day was dominated by Taka [Takaaki Nakagami], and the second day was marred by rain."

"In essence, I utilized the third day of the Shakedown for testing. We experimented with a variety of items since Honda provided numerous options for this trial, leaving me quite content."

Espargaro has clarified his upcoming testing plans, opting out of the official test in Sepang next week, choosing to concentrate on testing in Iberia instead.

He mentioned, "I have a packed agenda," indicating his unavailability for the upcoming trial with the factory squad. However, he plans to visit Portimao shortly, followed by sessions in Jerez and Valencia, highlighting a series of tests ahead.

"We're aware that these testing days are essential for improving the bike's performance, so I'll give it my all."

Nakagami mentioned, "Aleix and I were putting in a lot of effort." Originally, Espargaro wasn't supposed to be accompanied by Takaaki Nakagami for the official HRC test runs for the 2024 season. However, as the rider from Japan clarified, things turned out differently.

"First and foremost, I'm thrilled to kick off the season," Nakagami expressed to MotoGP.com.

"However, a fortnight prior, HRC conducted a trial at Buriram where I participated for one day and Aleix [Espargaro] took over on the subsequent day. Initially, I hadn't planned on being part of the Shakedown test here, but following the trials at Buriram, they requested my involvement with the test team."

"Initially, my role was supposed to last just a single day, yet it ultimately extended to a day and a half."

Nakagami reiterated Espargaro's remarks, emphasizing their duty to assemble the optimal setup for the factory team's racers in preparation for the forthcoming official trial next week.

"Essentially, our goal was to explore a wide variety of elements to evaluate, aiming to assemble the optimal setup for our factory riders. Throughout these three days, both Aleix and I dedicated ourselves to meticulously seeking the ideal equilibrium for the motorcycle, focusing not just on the chassis but also on the engine and numerous other components in need of testing."

"Regardless, it was a demanding task, yet it feels good to be here in Sepang, especially with this warm weather. Regardless, I'm pleased to have concluded this Shakedown test and am looking forward to the upcoming official test."

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2027 KTM MotoGP motorcycle development is still in the preliminary phase. "Our team of engineers is present and actively engaged in the project," they stated.

The recent financial troubles faced by KTM have far-reaching consequences that go beyond MotoGP. However, their effect on Grand Prix racing remains significant, particularly with a major rule change anticipated in two years.

The MotoGP regulations for 2027 will reduce engine sizes from 1,000cc to 850cc, modify aerodynamics, and ban devices that adjust ride height.

Altering the rules in the world's priciest motorcycle racing series could potentially put a manufacturer in a tough financial spot while trying to create the new racing model.

According to Pit Beirer, the head of motorsports at KTM, work is still in progress on the company's 850cc MotoGP bike. The absence of a tangible bike at this stage is due to the fact that the regulations have yet to be completed.

Beirer mentioned that the 2027 bike is still in its initial phase since the regulations are not completely finalized, making it impossible to construct the bike right now.

"Our engineers are present and actively developing the 2027 bike, but it's not yet the right time to have the hardware available."

"Naturally, there remains a strategic timeline in place. After February 25, we will have a clearer picture of the long-term outlook. There will still be ample time to focus on developing the hardware; however, we are already in the process of planning for a motorcycle intended for 2027."

Beirer noted that KTM's recent financial challenges haven't affected their performance-oriented racing projects this winter. This stability is due to measures implemented last summer when the Pierer Mobility Group started scaling down its international racing operations.

"The major event took place during the summer, when we decreased the total number of factory riders worldwide by 12," he stated.

"For each group of 12 riders, there are typically two or three support staff, but this number has been decreased."

"We decided to reduce our global teams to concentrate on our orange brand. We thought, 'To demonstrate our ability to succeed, we don't need three brands. Let's prioritize one because our top competitors are also competing in the highest category with a single brand.'"

To compete with these powerful manufacturers, our main focus should be on a specific area where we can make the biggest impact. Eliminating food and beverages for a team won't really save money. However, if we begin to cut down on the number of riders, it will lead to reductions in the associated equipment, personnel, mechanics, vehicles, and overall infrastructure.

"Our program was incredibly robust as we competed with three different brands across all categories: 250, 450, off-road, and also on asphalt."

"We made the most significant reductions there, allowing us to achieve immediate substantial savings. However, it's important to us that everything we do is of the highest quality."

Apart from its involvement in MotoGP, KTM is also significantly active in Moto3, being one of the two companies producing bikes for the competition, as well as in Moto2.

There have also been cutbacks in that area, as the GasGas and Husqvarna brands are no longer part of Moto3, and Husqvarna has exited from Moto2 as well.

Beirer mentioned that they identified cost reductions in both Moto3 and Moto2. However, they intend to continue participating in the current categories and have plans to remain involved.

"There will be a decrease in numbers, but it won't affect the top-tier motorcycles. We are definitely committed to continuing our support for Moto3 and Moto2 in the future."

"Undoubtedly, there will be some cutbacks, as it's evident that the current spending on Moto3 and Moto2 is substantial. We need to adjust the way we provide support to these categories."

"However, making decisions at the moment is challenging due to ongoing significant debates about potential future changes in regulations. This uncertainty makes it tough to formulate a solid plan."

"We developed a strategy for 2025, allocated the racing budget for that year, and while we're certainly planning for the future, no one else in my racing circle has a budget set for 2026. Additionally, no other manufacturer has secured a contract with Dorna for the period starting in 2027."

"We've faced challenging times in the past, yet we have persevered and now find ourselves here. Today, we continue to compete across all racing categories."

"Allow us some time to prepare for 2026 and 2027. However, if we succeed in racing in 2025, we will come up with plans for the years following 2026."

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Maverick Vinales acknowledges significant assistance from his "hero" Dani Pedrosa at KTM

"I'm eager to hear Dani's advice and learn how I can get better"

Maverick Vinales expresses his appreciation for the guidance on improving as a KTM MotoGP rider, which he has received from his "idol," Dani Pedrosa.

Grand Prix champion with ten victories in the premier class, Vinales, will team up with Tech3 as a factory KTM rider for the 2025 season after spending more than three years with Aprilia.

Explore further: Amidst internal turmoil, KTM's MotoGP initiative remains unyielded

KTM's present testing squad stands out as one of the most formidable in the racing arena, led by Pedrosa, who has secured the MotoGP championship second place three times, and Pol Espargaro, known for his numerous podium appearances.

Pedrosa's impact on KTM has grown significantly in recent times, as Vinales highlighted during the unveiling of the brand's 2025 lineup, expressing the extent of Pedrosa's assistance to him.

"Vinales expressed, 'It's not just about him sharing advice; I genuinely want him to share it with me,'" regarding the guidance Pedrosa offers.

"I'm willing to hear Dani out and learn how I might also enhance my approach to racing and my riding technique."

"I believe that each year presents an opportunity for learning, and having Dani Pedrosa, who I've looked up to since childhood, as a mentor, I'm truly thankful. This allows me to gain considerable knowledge and insight into how I can enhance my performance or perhaps strategize better in races."

"This is quite significant. Truthfully, perhaps for the first time in nine years, this year marks a departure from having to develop a bike."

"This represents a significant shift. Now, I have the opportunity to focus on my personal performance and fine-tune the setup. Reflecting on the previous year, I recall not having the chance to complete even three laps to adjust the setup."

"This year, I have numerous laps to adjust my settings. I hope this will significantly help in advancing to the next level."

When inquired about the guidance he had already received, Vinales responded, "Indeed, some. That's the reason I've been extensively training, as I'm aiming to integrate it into my way of riding."

"He offered me several tips, and I'm grateful for it."

KTM has announced that Pedrosa and Espargaro are currently in Sepang for the initial preparations before the year's first official pre-season testing, scheduled for February 5-7.

The continuous bankruptcy process at KTM had fueled rumors that Pedrosa would be removed from his position as a test rider, however, it seems that this is not happening at the moment.

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Honda's rising star, Nirei Fukuzumi, is gearing up to compete in both the FIA Formula 2 championship and the Super Formula series in 2018. This development comes after a deal was finalized between Arden Motorsport and Honda, allowing Fukuzumi to advance to Formula 2.

A 20-year-old from Japan, affiliated with Honda's junior driver program, has competed in the GP3 Series for the last two seasons with ART Grand Prix. In the previous season, he secured third place in the drivers' championship, finishing behind George Russell and Jack Aitken.

Nirei Fukuzumi is set to advance to the FIA Formula 2 series in 2018 following a deal between Arden Motorsport and Honda.

A 20-year-old Japanese driver, who is affiliated with Honda's junior driver program, has competed in the GP3 Series for the last two years with ART Grand Prix. Last season, he secured third place in the drivers' championship, finishing behind George Russell and Jack Aitken.

After impressing with victories in the feature races in Barcelona and Jerez, Fukuzumi's bid for the title was hindered by failing to finish races at Silverstone and Monza. Supported by Honda, he is set to advance to F2 in 2018, joining Arden Motorsport.

A Japanese racer is set to embark on his first F2 season while also competing in Super Formula, joining Team Mugen Honda. He will fill the position left open by Pierre Gasly, who is advancing to a full-time Formula 1 role with Toro Rosso in 2018.

Arden Motorsport is anticipated to reveal who will join Fukuzumi on the team in the next few weeks. This announcement is expected before the pre-season testing sessions in Barcelona and Bahrain, which are scheduled ahead of the season's first race at the Sakhir circuit from April 6 to 8.

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Ducati insider's definitive viewpoint on how Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia are managed

The handling of Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia within the Ducati team explored

A key assistant for Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia promises to offer impartial support this season.

Manuel Poggiali serves as Ducati's mentor for riders, dividing his attention between the factory team and Gresini's setup, with the understanding that Marquez and Bagnaia are the main focus.

He maintains that there will be a level playing field for all of Ducati's primary racers.

According to Poggiali, speaking to Corsedimoto, when it comes to achievements, this team tops the circus. With Marc's eight world titles and Pecco's trio of championships, their collective accomplishments are unmatched by any other team.

"However, that was then, and our focus is on the now, our goal is to secure this championship."

"From our perspective, it's crucial to effectively handle both riders, ensuring they receive equal treatment, identical equipment, and are placed in the optimal conditions personally, so they can perform at their peak."

"For our technical crew and collective, it stands as the utmost priority."

This year, the environment inside the Ducati team's garage will be closely monitored throughout the season.

Marquez and Bagnaia are both set on claiming the 2025 MotoGP championship title.

It remains uncertain if their eagerness will manifest further.

"Poggiali is confident that Marquez will adapt well to the factory team."

"In my opinion, Pecco and Marc are incredibly quick competitors, both possessing talent and championship qualities, as they have demonstrated."

"Variations in qualifications, to a degree for potential and length of professional experience."

"Nonetheless, I am convinced that each of them is an exceptional rider, a genuine champion: having the opportunity to collaborate with them will indeed be an honor."

"At Ducati, amidst all possible considerations, there exists a singular objective, and the one who outperforms others will achieve it."

Marquez, Bagnaia, and VR46 team's Fabio di Giannantonio are set to ride the GP25, anticipated to be this year's top-performing motorcycle in MotoGP.

Marquez is tasked with transitioning from a year-old Ducati model to the most recent iteration.

Given the advanced machinery available to them, Marquez and Bagnaia are widely considered the top contenders for the championship.

Titleholder Jorge Martin is tasked with protecting his championship status as he adapts to his new surroundings in the Aprilia factory team

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For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter for Sky Sports, where he reported on a wide range of sports, including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1.

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Latifi Increases F2 Championship Advantage with Victory in Baku Sprint Race

Nicholas Latifi solidified his position as the leader in the FIA Formula 2 drivers' standings by securing a victory in the Sprint Race held on Sunday at the Baku City Circuit.

Williams Formula 1 test driver Latifi managed to fight his way to the front in a shortened F2 race in Baku, which included three Safety Car intervals, leading to the race being completed based on time limits once more.

Before reaching the halfway point, Latifi overtook Sean Gelael, who had been leading at the start, and successfully defended his position against Juan Manuel Correa and Nyck de Vries, securing his second victory of the season.

Nicholas Latifi increased his advantage in the FIA Formula 2 drivers' standings by securing victory in the Sprint Race held at the Baku City Circuit on Sunday.

Williams Formula 1 test driver Nicholas Latifi managed to fight his way to the front in a shortened Formula 2 race in Baku. The event, which included three Safety Car interruptions, concluded based on time limits once more.

Latifi seized the lead before reaching the halfway point of the race by overtaking initial leader Sean Gelael. He successfully fended off competition from Juan Manuel Correa and Nyck de Vries to secure his second victory of the season.

Correa achieved his inaugural podium finish in Formula 2 by securing second place. Meanwhile, Jack Aitken, who won the Feature Race on Saturday, rounded out the podium positions after overtaking de Vries in the final stages, leaving de Vries to finish in fourth.

Mick Schumacher made an impressive climb from 19th position at the start to secure a fifth-place finish for Prema, ahead of Sergio Sette Camara and Dorian Boccolacci. Meanwhile, Sean Gelael managed to clinch the last available point by finishing eighth, narrowly beating Callum Ilott in a thrilling finish where he crossed the line just 0.005 seconds ahead.

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Re

A hypothesis connecting Max Verstappen's assertive approach on the track to Michael Schumacher has been proposed by an ex-Formula 1 Grand Prix victor.

It is suggested that Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher may have had an impact on Max Verstappen’s approach to racing.

Former F1 racer Johnny Herbert believes that Max Verstappen, known for his assertive on-track tactics, might have taken counsel from the seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, according to his views.

During the 1994 season at Benetton, Schumacher and Jos Verstappen, Max Verstappen's father, were teammates and formed a strong friendship.

"Herbert mentioned to Casinoutanspelpaus.io that remarks like the ones Michael Schumacher might have shared with Max Verstappen are likely to be memorable."

"However, I'm aware that Joss Verstappen would also ensure he remembers them concurrently."

"He seems to have greatly leveraged Michael's approach to teamwork, which has significantly contributed to the current prowess of our group. His strength, evident from his early days in Formula One, has been a constant from a remarkably young age."

"I vividly recall his inaugural season in Formula One, where he quickly gained a notorious reputation for forcing competitors off the track and displaying an aggressive racing style. His stance was clear: for him, racing was inherently about being tough and competitive."

"You don't force people against the wall; instead, you guide them onto the lawn."

Discussing his bond with Schumacher, Verstappen Sr. shared with F1 Insider, "It was always positive. He put in a lot of effort, even post-retirement. We frequently enjoyed karting sessions with our kids Mick and Max.

Michael treated Max and Mick without distinction. Whenever he had a message, he communicated it to both of them. It's likely that Max gained from these interactions as well. Shared traits between Max and Michael include their relentless competitiveness during races, coupled with their gentle, empathetic, and considerate nature off the track.

Verstappen's assertive racing approach expected to persist

Plans are in motion to modify Formula 1's racing rules by 2025 to address the aggressive overtaking maneuvers, often referred to as "dive-bomb" tactics, that Verstappen employed in his championship fight against McLaren's Lando Norris last season.

Nonetheless, Herbert believes that Verstappen will continue to adopt a bold strategy while he aims to polish his racing abilities.

"Top drivers are expected to excel further under the updated regulations. The extreme cornering guidelines and sanctions witnessed in Mexico serve as a prime example," he further stated.

"I believe this season will have a unique feel to it. From Max Verstappen's perspective, his natural aggressiveness will continue to play a role, but he's constantly enhancing his skills on the track and in qualifying. He undoubtedly has more tricks up his sleeve should the situation call for it."

"Is there a necessity for Verstappen to have a teammate who challenges him further? This presents an opportunity for Liam Lawson to excel, especially given the challenging position of competing against someone who is currently among the top in the world, and possibly one of the all-time greats."

"Having a teammate who challenges Verstappen could only be beneficial, as it is likely to elevate his performance to a new height. This advancement, albeit unfortunate for his competitors, signifies a pivotal shift in dynamics should he ascend to this newfound level."

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Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix worldwide for Crash.net. By being present at the events, Lewis shares the narratives of key figures within the sport.

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Hitech Grand Prix has secured the talents of Red Bull Formula 1 juniors, Liam Lawson and Juri Vips, to compete in the approaching 2021 Formula 2 season.

The statement confirms that Vips will make an anticipated transition to a full-time position in Formula 2 for the 2021 season. This follows his participation in six races last year, where he stepped in for Sean Gelael at DAMS.

Juri Vips was originally scheduled to compete full-time in the Super Formula series in 2020, but his plans were derailed by Japan's travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the 20-year-old took on a role as a reserve driver for Red Bull in Formula 1 and also temporarily replaced the injured Sean Gelael in Formula 2.

Vips used to compete with Hitech in Formula 3, where he achieved a fourth-place finish in the 2019 season rankings.

Vips expressed his enthusiasm about collaborating with Hitech once more.

"In 2019, we had a successful run in F3, but there's more we want to accomplish together. Their debut season in F2 was impressive, and I believe we're in a strong position to compete for the championship this year!"

Vips achieved his highest finish by securing third place in the Mugello sprint race. He also participated in the post-season F2 testing for Hitech, where he was joined by Liam Lawson, a leading competitor in Formula 3. Lawson will be teaming up with the Estonian driver at the British team for the 2021 season.

Lawson, the 2019 champion of the Toyota Racing Series, advances to Formula 2 with Hitech following his impressive performance in the 2020 F3 season, where he secured three victories and finished in fifth place overall.

The 18-year-old New Zealander expressed enthusiasm about competing in F2 with Hitech this year. After two seasons in Formula 3, he feels ready to join this championship and perform well for the team.

During my time testing the F2 car in Bahrain with Hitech, I gained significant insights and developed a strong connection with the vehicle. However, I acknowledge that there is still much to absorb, and I am eagerly anticipating the upcoming challenges.

Red Bull has revealed that Jehan Daruvala will remain with Carlin for the 2021 F2 season. The Indian driver concluded his debut season in 12th place and secured his first win during the season's final race in Bahrain.

Hitech has announced that it will feature two Red Bull junior drivers in its lineup for the 2021 F3 season, with newcomers Jak Crawford and Ayumu Iwasa joining the team.

Crawford secured five victories and four pole positions, ultimately placing second in the ADAC Formula 4 Championship last year.

The American expressed great joy about joining Hitech GP for the 2021 FIA F3 season. He mentioned his enthusiasm for advancing from F4 to race against a strong group of competitors.

"Given the team's accomplishments in past seasons, I aim to deliver similar outcomes and compete at the forefront."

In the meantime, Iwasa, supported by Honda, moves up to Formula 3 following his success in the French Formula 4 championship, where he achieved nine wins, reached the podium 15 times, and secured five pole positions.

The 19-year-old expressed excitement about the upcoming challenge and mentioned plans to compete in the Asian F3 series.

"I'm thrilled about the opportunity to join Hitech for both FIA F3 and Asian F3, and I'm eager to learn from the team's past successes. I am committed to consistently delivering strong performances."

Jonny Edgar, the reigning ADAC Formula 4 champion and a Red Bull protégé, is set to advance to Formula 3, where he will be driving for Carlin.

Lewis frequently travels to various Grand Prix events across the globe for Crash.net. He is often on-site to cover the events, sharing the experiences and insights of key figures in the racing world.

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A 2025 Formula 1 driver is selected as having the most challenging role to play

“His biggest challenge lies in the vehicle he’s tasked with maneuvering”

In 2025, a particular Formula 1 driver is recognized for facing the most challenging assignment.

Gabriel Bortoleto is set to embark on his debut season in Formula 1, joining the Sauber team.

In the previous year, Bortleto clinched the F2 championship title, surpassing new F1 entrants Isack Hadjar, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Oliver Bearman, and Franco Colapinto.

However, his ascent to the premier series will occur in the least competitive vehicle – Sauber managed to secure their initial point of 2024 during the 23rd grand prix.

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"Lewis Larkam, speaking on the Crash F1 podcast, highlighted that, just like with Kimi Antonelli, it's crucial to allow a newcomer sufficient time to acclimate."

"[The recent addition to the team, Nico Hulkenberg], is not to be underestimated; he's a reliable scorer and consistently performs well. Last season with Haas, he showed remarkable skill, especially in single-lap speed, and was adept at turning those performances into points.

"The more challenging examination will come from the vehicle he's piloting. In the previous season, Sauber was at the bottom of the pack with the slowest car."

Sauber's attention is centered on the year 2026, with an emphasis on the upcoming regulations and Audi's integration as a takeover. "It's a project with a long-term vision," Lewis Larkam noted.

"This season, it's likely we'll see similar performances from Sauber."

"They'll find themselves near the end of the pack. Understanding that significant progress in advancing positions this year is unlikely, they reason that from a financial perspective, it's unwise to invest heavily in the current season when there's a chance for a major improvement next year."

"For Bortoleto, the expectations won't be overwhelmingly high. This year is primarily about gaining experience.

"Sauber will evaluate his performance by comparing him to Hulkenberg, using this as their sole criterion for assessment."

"Alternatively, given their performance in the previous season, they shouldn't anticipate competing for points in every match."

"He's faced with a challenging role. It's arguably difficult for him to make a mark or excel, given the limited chances available."

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