Sergio Perez announces that he will be leaving Red Bull at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season, though a successor has yet to be identified.

Sergio Perez has revealed that he will be departing from Red Bull before the start of the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Following the conclusion of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix earlier this month, the announcement was anticipated, and on Wednesday, Red Bull and Perez officially confirmed the news.

Perez's role at Red Bull was no longer sustainable because he couldn't improve his poor performances throughout the 2024 season.

As Max Verstappen clinched his fourth straight world championship, Perez added only 152 points to Red Bull's overall tally of 589 last season, ultimately placing eighth in the drivers' rankings.

The 34-year-old racer from Mexico did not manage to secure a spot in the top five for 18 consecutive races. His lackluster performance was a major factor in Red Bull dropping to third in the constructors' championship.

After Perez managed to secure just one point in the last three races of the season and showed no signs of getting better, Red Bull took decisive action by ending his contract two years ahead of schedule.

Perez expressed his deep appreciation for the four years he spent with Oracle Red Bull Racing, highlighting the privilege it was to compete with such an outstanding team. He described his time with Red Bull as an unforgettable journey and noted that he would always hold dear the accomplishments they achieved as a unit.

"We shattered records and achieved impressive milestones, and I've been fortunate to encounter numerous amazing individuals during this journey. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each member of the team, including those in management, engineering, mechanics, catering, hospitality, kitchen, marketing, and communications, as well as everyone in Milton Keynes. I wish you all the best moving forward."

"It has been a privilege to compete alongside Max as a teammate over the years and to celebrate our achievements together. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to fans worldwide, particularly those in Mexico, for your constant support. We'll cross paths again soon. And always keep in mind… Never give up."

Red Bull's team leader, Christian Horner, expressed his gratitude towards Checo, acknowledging his contributions to Oracle Red Bull Racing during the last four seasons.

Since he became a part of the team in 2021, he demonstrated remarkable teamwork, contributing significantly to our achievement of two Constructors’ championships and securing our first 1-2 finish in the Drivers’ standings. His five victories, all on street courses, highlighted his relentless drive to consistently perform at the highest level.

"Although Checo won't be competing with the Team next season, he remains a highly popular figure among us and is an invaluable piece of our legacy. We appreciate you, Checo."

Lawson is anticipated to take over the position

With Perez stepping down, Lawson is likely to fill his spot. This change comes after Lawson took Daniel Ricciardo's place at Red Bull's affiliated team, RB, starting from the United States Grand Prix.

According to reports, Red Bull has concluded that Lawson is the ideal choice to partner with Verstappen, even though the 22-year-old from New Zealand has participated in just 11 Formula 1 races.

Lawson earned points during the races in the United States and Brazil and is considered the frontrunner to be chosen over Yuki Tsunoda, who managed to qualify ahead of his Red Bull teammate in their six joint appearances in 2024.

Red Bull announced that more details about their complete 2025 team will be shared at a later time.

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Christian Horner suggests that Sergio Perez will continue to have a connection with the Red Bull brand even as he takes a break from Formula 1.

Red Bull's team leader, Christian Horner, announced that Sergio Perez has chosen to take a break from Formula 1.

On Wednesday, it was announced that Perez and Red Bull will part ways, with the 34-year-old Mexican driver leaving the team after the 2024 season, marking the end of their four-year partnership.

The anticipated announcement was made after discussions aimed at finalizing the details of Perez's departure, despite him having agreed to a two-year contract extension for the 2025 and 2026 seasons earlier this year.

Reports indicate that Perez might be given a position as an ambassador for Red Bull. Horner mentioned that even though Perez will no longer be racing, he is expected to continue his involvement with the company.

"He has been an outstanding team member. Although this year has been challenging for him, he remains an excellent individual and was crucial to winning the Drivers' Championship in 2021, as well as the Constructors' titles in 2022 and 2023," Horner said to Sky Sports F1.

Last year, he finished as the runner-up in the Drivers' Championship and secured victories in five grands prix driving our vehicles. After the season concluded, he took some time to think about his future. We had a meeting last week to talk about what the future holds.

He has chosen to take a break from Formula 1, essentially going on a sabbatical. While he will remain connected with the brand and team, he will no longer be participating as a driver for the time being.

"We're disappointed to see him depart from the team, but it's clear that he needs to prioritize time with his young family and focus on his future plans."

Tsunoda or Lawson?

Red Bull has not yet officially announced who will take Perez's place in 2025, though Liam Lawson is considered the frontrunner to partner with Max Verstappen.

Horner announced that the final decision will be made between the 22-year-old racer from New Zealand and his teammate, Yuki Tsunoda, both of whom tested Red Bull's 2024 Formula 1 car after the season concluded in Abu Dhabi.

Official confirmation regarding Red Bull's driver roster for the 2025 season is anticipated shortly.

"We possess all the necessary details," Horner stated. "Ultimately, the decision will be between Yuki and Liam, as both have impressive qualifications."

Recently, we had the opportunity to evaluate Yuki during a tire test in Abu Dhabi, allowing him to collaborate with the engineering team. This year, Liam has also been extensively involved in testing activities with us away from the spotlight and has performed admirably in the six or seven races he participated in.

"We've gathered all the details we need. Currently, we're reviewing everything and consulting with the engineering team. We expect to reach a decision within the next few days."

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Liberty Media faces a new challenge from the EU in its acquisition of MotoGP

The European Union plans to initiate an investigation into the planned acquisition

The European Union is poised to investigate Liberty Media's intended acquisition of the MotoGP World Championship.

According to information from Bloomberg & Reuters, the European Union's newly appointed antitrust head, Teresa Ribera, along with her staff, have expressed concerns that the acquisition valued at 3.5 billion euros might hamper competitive practices in the broadcasting and streaming sectors. This apprehension arises from the potential consolidation of the MotoGP and F1 franchises under a single proprietorship.

Earlier in the year, the American corporation that holds ownership of Formula 1 disclosed its purchase of an 86% majority stake in Dorna Sports, the entity behind MotoGP. Following this announcement, Liberty Media has successfully navigated the required regulatory steps to finalize this acquisition by the end of the year target.

In August, it was revealed that Liberty Media intended to offload Formula 1 shares valued at $825 million as part of financing its proposed purchase of MotoGP.

In November, Chief Executive Officer Greg Maffei announced that the acquisition of MotoGP by the company had been officially submitted to the European Commission.

He mentioned, "Briefly touching on MotoGP; we have submitted to the European Commission for regulatory clearance and anticipate being on schedule to obtain that by the end of the year."

The European Commission is facing a decision-making deadline on Liberty's acquisition of MotoGP, set for December 19th. Recent developments suggest that authorities are gearing up for a secondary phase of investigation by this same date, based on information from a Bloomberg report. It was also noted that the decision is presently in a preliminary stage and could be altered.

In the same vein, the acquisition of Formula 1 by CVC Capital in 2006 led to regulatory intervention, requiring the firm to divest its stake in MotoGP due to antitrust concerns. Regulators viewed this as creating a motorsport monopoly. Consequently, MotoGP was transferred to its present owners, Bridgepoint.

As early as October of this year, Pascal Arimont, a Member of the European Parliament from Belgium, called upon the European Commission to conduct an inquiry into Liberty Media due to concerns about the company potentially monopolizing global motorsport by owning both Formula 1 and MotoGP.

Nonetheless, from the outset, Liberty has maintained a strong belief that the situation will not repeat itself this time. When Reuters contacted Liberty Media seeking a statement, they did not provide a response at this moment.

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Marc Marquez reveals his genuine perspective on maintaining their rivalry to Valentino Rossi

Marc Marquez reacts to Valentino Rossi's fury

Marc Marquez has replied to Valentino Rossi's latest outburst, sharing his own perspective on their ongoing dispute.

Recently, Rossi reignited the contentious issues from their 2015 clash, criticizing Marquez for lacking sportsmanship and holding him responsible for his inability to secure the MotoGP championship during that controversial year.

Rossi's harsh comments were made as Marquez was getting ready to join the Ducati team, working closely with VR46's rising star, Pecco Bagnaia.

However, Marquez has now given a response.

"Marquez expressed the sentiment that a fight cannot happen without mutual consent, as reported by Marca."

His efforts to dampen the flames ignited by Rossi could be the perfect strategy leading up to 2025.

Marquez is required to adjust to the current factory edition of the Ducati, having spent the previous season on an older model of the bike.

At last, equipped with machinery on par with Bagnaia, and with titleholder Jorge Martin adjusting to the Aprilia, Marquez is in clear sight of securing another MotoGP title.

Marc Marquez expressed his eagerness to move forward, stating, "I didn't question it; I simply asked, 'where do I sign?'" Looking back on a triumphant 2024, Marquez saw it as a significant rebound from the series of falls and injuries that marked his last period with Honda.

He managed to remain a contender for the championship title until the final stages of the series, and he found his way back to victory by choosing to switch from Repsol Honda to Gresini Ducati.

"He mentioned that when you suddenly encounter the negative aspects of sports, it transforms you in ways you didn't anticipate."

"Suffering from an injury can lead to a downward spiral, and from there, the consequences can be unpredictable."

"Returning from an injury, even while still feeling discomfort, one realizes that winning isn't the default outcome. Instead, being second, third, or even lower is more typical, as victories are rare, often coming after numerous losses."

"This is the reason I find more joy in winning now than I did previously."

This season, I've discovered the ideal setting for a fresh start, a place where I can thrive without stress and truly enjoy myself. Gresini, a team deeply rooted in passion, originally led by Fausto and currently managed by his spouse alongside long-standing members, operates as a satellite team. It seamlessly blends enthusiasm with expertise.

In sports, the focus is on the current moment; your value is determined by your recent performances. I was beginning to shine, adjusting to the Ducati and continually improving my performance.

Upon being informed that I had been selected, I didn't question their choice. Instead, I simply inquired, "Alright, where's the contract?" and that was all.

Gigi Dall'Igna shared the news with me, and I responded with gratitude. I'm committed to proving it was the correct choice.

Marquez likened his move to Bagnaia's team to a football transfer.

"Vinicius is the key figure present; he's the focal point," he commented on the Real Madrid soccer player.

"Following this, Mbappé will undergo a period of adjustment."

"Pecco sets the standard within the Ducati team, having secured 11 race victories this season. He remained a contender for the World Championship until the final race and has claimed the world champion title twice within that team."

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Outgoing KTM leader identifies precise reasons for this year's failures

KTM chief evaluates below-average performance in 2024

Francesco Guidotti has openly pinpointed the precise missteps KTM made this season.

At the beginning of the season, many expected KTM to be Ducati's primary competitors, but they failed to secure a victory throughout the year.

Brad Binder, who came in fifth, and Pedro Acosta, who finished sixth, were the highest-placed riders not on Ducati motorcycles in the MotoGP rankings. However, their team was unable to provide them with a motorcycle capable of winning races.

In contrast, Aprilia facilitated victories in sprint races for both Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales. Additionally, Vinales claimed victory in the grand prix at COTA.

Despite Acosta's initial flashes of genius, the forecast of him securing a race victory never materialized.

"According to the departing team leader Guidotti, they had a strong start with various riders achieving podium finishes, setting high expectations."

We initiated our journey with a substantial goal in mind. Up until the halfway point of the season, we were performing quite well.

"Starting from the middle of the season, we faced some challenges. Our chosen path turned out not to be the most suitable for us."

The leading competitors achieved slight progress, further widening the existing disparity.

"There was an unusual instance halfway through the season."

"This marked the point where we missed the opportunity to remain close to the leading position."

"The conduct of the riders was appropriate; they persisted without surrendering. Similarly, the technicians maintained their efforts. However, in truth, we weren't truly competing."

Acosta's second-place finish in Texas was filled with hope, but afterward, he endured a tough stretch of eight races without securing a spot on the podium.

Jack Miller and Augusto Fernandez consistently trailed behind their team members.

"Guidotti mentioned they had to go back and begin the movie from the start."

Toward the season's finale, it was clear that KTM led the pack. The period was marked by several mishaps and occurrences.

"In general, it's acceptable. It might not be our ideal choice, but it's what's currently available to us."

"At the beginning of the year, we failed to capitalize on numerous opportunities, which ultimately led to our defeat in the game."

Guidotti is set to step down, with Aki Ajo taking over as the team boss for KTM in 2025.

"Definitely, there have been numerous modifications," Guidotti stated.

"Typically, alterations provide additional inspiration."

"As a result of these transformations, we also forfeit expertise and a bond."

"However, I'm confident that Aki will guide the team in his own way."

The composition of the riders appears considerably more robust.

Acosta has advanced to join the factory team, partnering with Binder.

The updated Tech3 KTM squad will feature Enea Bastianini and Vinales.

Concerns for KTM could stem from their financial troubles, aside from their involvement in MotoGP.

The announced €3 billion launch indicates that the company has entered into self-management.

They maintain that their MotoGP ambitions for 2025 remain on track, with scheduled tests set to jumpstart their development, aiming for a strong start in the upcoming year.

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KTM's departing leader identifies specific failures of the year

KTM's chief evaluates the below-average performance in 2024

Francesco Guidotti has openly pinpointed the mistakes KTM made this year.

At the beginning of the season, KTM was widely regarded as Ducati's primary competition, yet they failed to secure a single race victory throughout the year.

Brad Binder, who came in fifth, and Pedro Acosta, ranking sixth, were the highest-placed riders not on Ducati motorcycles in the MotoGP rankings, yet their team was unable to provide them with a motorcycle capable of winning races.

In contrast, Aprilia facilitated victories in sprint races for both Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales. Additionally, Vinales secured a win in the grand prix at COTA.

Despite Acosta's initial exceptional performances, the expectation that he would secure a race victory never materialized.

"Guidotti, the departing team leader, mentioned, 'We kicked off impressively, achieving several podium finishes with various riders. The anticipation was significant.'"

We began with a significant goal in mind. Up until the middle of the season, we were performing quite well.

"Starting from the middle of the season, we faced some challenges. Our chosen path didn't turn out to be the most advantageous for us."

The leading competitors achieved slight progress, further widening the existing disparity.

"During the middle of the season, we experienced an odd period."

"This marked the moment we missed the opportunity to remain close to the peak."

"The conduct of the riders was commendable; they consistently persevered. Similarly, the technical team maintained their efforts without surrendering. However, the truth is we were never truly contenders in the competition."

Acosta's second-place finish in Texas was a hopeful moment, but it was followed by a challenging stretch of eight races without making it to the podium.

Jack Miller and Augusto Fernandez consistently trailed behind their team members.

"Guidotti mentioned that we needed to backtrack the film and begin anew."

Towards the season's end, it was clear that KTM led the pack. This period was marked by several accidents and unexpected events.

"In summary, it's acceptable. While it doesn't fully meet our expectations, it's currently what we have to work with."

"At the beginning of the year, we failed to capitalize on numerous opportunities, leading to our defeat in the game."

Guidotti is set to step down, with Aki Ajo taking over as the team boss for KTM in 2025.

"Definitely. The transformations are numerous," Guidotti remarked.

Typically, alterations provide additional inspiration.

"Amidst these transformations, we also forfeit expertise and a bond.

"However, I'm confident that Aki will guide the team in his own way."

The roster of riders appears considerably more formidable.

Acosta has advanced to join the factory team, partnering with Binder.

The updated lineup for the Tech3 KTM squad consists of Enea Bastianini and Vinales.

Concerns for KTM could center around their monetary troubles, separate from their MotoGP operations.

The announced launch of €3 billion signifies that the manufacturer has entered into self-management.

They maintain that their MotoGP strategies for 2025 remain on track, with scheduled tests set to propel their development efforts forward, beginning with significant momentum next year.

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MotoGP has announced information about its new season kickoff event for 2025, marking a fresh entry on the championship's schedule.

The inaugural MotoGP season launch event details have been released.

The gathering is scheduled to occur in Bangkok, Thailand, at the One Bangkok location on February 9, 2025. This is just three days prior to the last preseason trial at Buriram International Circuit and approximately three weeks before the 2025 season starts at the same location from February 28 to March 2.

According to a post on MotoGP.com, the anticipated all-in-one team launch event for the season will occur after the majority of the 2025 designs have already been unveiled.

The occasion will serve as an opportunity for enthusiasts to catch a preview of the elite riders of 2025. This lineup features the renowned duo from the factory Ducati team, Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia, Pedro Acosta sporting his new Red Bull KTM attire, and the newly crowned MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin, who is gearing up for his debut season with Aprilia.

The occasion will be broadcast live on MotoGP's social media platforms. The organization guarantees that "this is an opportunity for fans, whether attending in person or tuning in globally, to witness the entire lineup before the start of another exciting season."

According to MotoGP.com, the participants will engage in a 'Hero Walk' and will be on stage from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM local time. During this period, they will participate in interviews and display their 2025 colors.

The event will also offer various entertainment options, such as chances to take photos with MotoGP bikes being driven around Bangkok all day long. There will be a DJ playing music starting at 3:30 PM, followed by a musical performance beginning at 6:45 PM. According to MotoGP.com, this show will highlight a prominent local artist, whose identity will be announced shortly.

In the end, the participants will make their way to the roof for an exclusive gathering starting at 8:30 PM.

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Aleix Espargaro transitions to professional cycling

Former MotoGP rider Aleix Espargaro has revealed his new venture into professional cycling with the Lidl-Trek team.

Aleix Espargaro has transitioned to the Lidl-Trek pro cycling squad after wrapping up his MotoGP career on a full-time basis.

Espargaro is set to officially start his tenure with the Lidl-Trek team as an ambassador on January 1, 2025.

Espargaro will also participate with the Lidl-Trek team in some of the calendar's most celebrated events, according to a statement from the team.

"I'm excited to become a part of the Lidl-Trek team, renowned for having some of the top cyclists globally," Espargaro expressed.

"I'm thrilled at the opportunity to gain insights from top-tier cyclists and team members, challenge my boundaries, and bring fans along for this extraordinary adventure."

Espargar, a dedicated fan of cycling for many years, announced his decision to end his MotoGP racing career "sooner than expected" in order to become a part of the Lidl-Trek squad.

"I've had a deep love for cycling for many years, and I made the decision to leave MotoGP ahead of schedule to be part of a program that fits perfectly with my interest," he mentioned.

"I'm profoundly thankful to Lidl-Trek for embracing me into their fold and offering their support. I'll dedicate all my efforts."

Espargaro revealed his decision to retire from regular MotoGP competition during his local Grand Prix event in Catalunya this year.

Espargaro's obligations with Lidl-Trek will be complemented by a fresh role as a test rider for HRC's MotoGP initiative, a duty he embarked on during the official Barcelona test last month, after the season-ending Solidarity Grand Prix.

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Doubts Arise Over Mercedes' 2025 F1 Championship Ambitions Due to End-of-Season Performance Concerns

The potential for Mercedes to secure the F1 championship in 2025 has come under scrutiny.

Former Formula 1 driver Jolyon Palmer is doubtful that Mercedes will be in the running for the championship in 2025.

In 2024, Mercedes experienced their most challenging season in more than ten years, securing fourth place in the Formula 1 Constructors' Championship.

Mercedes managed to secure four wins, with George Russell and Lewis Hamilton each claiming two, but their performance was highly erratic.

Since the new regulations were implemented in 2022, Mercedes has struggled to consistently perform at the top level in Formula 1, unable to fully understand the necessary elements for maintaining speed.

Jolyon Palmer, who competed with the Renault team during the 2016 and 2017 seasons, is skeptical about Mercedes improving their performance by 2025

According to Palmer on the BBC's Chequered Flag podcast, Las Vegas was the location where their car performed exceptionally well. However, he noted that Vegas is an unusual track with unique conditions not found elsewhere.

"Even Qatar experienced cooler temperatures the following week. Although it wasn't as cold as it gets in Las Vegas, the conditions were quite different."

"Each year brought its own surprises. The year 2022 was particularly puzzling. The team performed impressively towards the end, with Russell securing a victory in Brazil. This led to the expectation that they had figured things out for 2023. However, 2023 was equally perplexing. Once again, the team gained momentum, with Hamilton showing strong performances towards the season's conclusion, notably in Austin, and ultimately securing third place in the championship standings."

"You might have assumed that 2024 would be their breakthrough year. However, 2024 has turned out to be quite puzzling. Then, towards the end of the year in Vegas, Hamilton and Russell suddenly perform impressively. This makes you think that 2025 might be their year. You understand what I mean. I'm not entirely convinced it will happen, but we'll have to wait and see."

A significant change is on the horizon for Mercedes in 2025, marking their first racing season without Hamilton since 2012.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, a talented 18-year-old, is advancing from Formula 2, while Russell is expected to take on the role of the primary team leader at Mercedes.

As the regulations stay consistent throughout the winter, an exhilarating competition is anticipated at the forefront among McLaren, Ferrari, and Red Bull.

Mercedes is aiming to achieve the crucial consistency they need during the winter season to narrow the distance from the leading three teams.

In any case, they are placing their expectations on 2026 and the updated engine regulations.

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Davide Tardozzi criticizes Pecco Bagnaia sharply: "These competitors are outperforming you."

"It's not always possible to play nice. It simply isn't…"

Video unveiled in a recent three-episode series about MotoGP by Ducati showcases a notably intense exchange between Francesco Bagnaia and Davide Tardozzi.

The show, titled "Dream On: Ducati and Bagnaia’s Pursuit of Glory," aims to provide an insider’s perspective on the concluding races of the 2024 MotoGP World Championship, centering on Bagnaia and his experiences within the Ducati Lenovo Team.

Potentially, the most crucial moment from the initial episode, released on Ducati's YouTube channel on December 15, emerges following the Sprint at the Thai Grand Prix.

Bagnaia, who began the race in pole position, found himself in third place after the first turn, having been overtaken by his championship competitor, Jorge Martin, on the inside during the approach to the first corner.

The Italian regained his spot ahead of Martin as they came out of the turn, yet the Spaniard managed to overtake him again as they shifted from turn six to turn seven further into the race, pushing Bagnaia down to third place.

The segment features a conversation inside Bagnaia's vehicle following the Sprint, attended by Bagnaia, his spouse, sibling, media representative, and the Ducati Lenovo Team's leader Davide Tardozzi.

"Martin really showed courage today," Tardozzi said to Bagnaia.

"The courage to take you down. […] His mind was made up about pestering you. He went ahead and did what was necessary."

"That's your task for tomorrow. You can't always play the nice guy. It's just not possible, especially when these guys are outperforming you."

"Martin singled you out right from the start, making up his mind to collide with you at the very first turn. It's clear there was no uncertainty in his intentions."

"You have to quit playing the nice guy; these fellows will rip you to shreds."

The following day, a last-minute choice to switch Bagnaia's main motorcycle to a rain-oriented configuration, a decision-making process depicted in the inaugural episode of Dream On, enabled him to recover from the Sprint's letdown and secure his first win in the top tier under rainy conditions during the Grand Prix.

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Adjustments Aprilia must implement for Jorge Martin to create significant MotoGP records

Securing a MotoGP championship is an achievement, yet Jorge Martin aims to do so after transitioning to a new team in 2025.

Jorge Martin's transition from Pramac Ducati to Aprilia offers the Spanish racer an uncommon chance to secure MotoGP championships with varied manufacturers.

Nonetheless, to achieve this, Aprilia, which secured the third spot in this year's constructors' rankings, must enhance its MotoGP offering.

"Jordan Moreland, the host of the Crash MotoGP Podcast, confirmed that it's a step back due to Ducati's dominance. However, during Martin's initial trial in Barcelona, despite not having direct quotes from him, it appeared they were quite satisfied overall."

"The focus is truly on advancing to the next level for Aprilia, as that's been their position for the past season and a half. There's been a significant difference in performance when comparing them with Ducati."

Crash.net's MotoGP chief, Peter McLaren, highlighted consistency as a key element in Martin's 2025 championship success, a trait Martin mastered in 2024, unlike Aprilia.

McLaren mentioned, "I believe it was [Massimo] Rivola who made the comment; they have to improve their overall performance, right?"

This year, they stood out as the sole manufacturer to outperform Ducati, marking a significant accomplishment. However, they concurrently fell back in the rankings, ending up behind KTM in the constructors’ standings.

"Aprilia's performance is a mixed bag, but they must improve on their average days to be contenders for the championship."

Securing the championship would position Martin as just the third competitor ever to secure the top-tier Grand Prix championship in consecutive years with different manufacturers, following in the footsteps of Valentino Rossi (2003–04) and Eddie Lawson (1988–89).

"Securing that achievement would be a huge deal for Martin," McLaren described.

"It appears that only Valentino Rossi and Eddie Lawson have achieved consecutive championships with different manufacturers, offering him an opportunity to significantly etch his name in history."

"Undoubtedly, he faces a significant challenge in accomplishing that, but the initial step is to achieve consistency."

"We witnessed Maverick's remarkable performances at COTA, where he secured victories, achieving an impressive double win that appeared to baffle even him regarding his exceptional success at that circuit, and yet, he never returned to the podium following those triumphs. It all boils down to consistency."

"Consistency may not be the most exciting term or concept, but it truly is the key to securing championships, especially in a season that spans over 40 races. This was clearly demonstrated this year when Martin, despite winning fewer Grand Prix races than Bagnaia, managed to come out on top."

A crucial element in attaining greater consistency will involve making more effective use of the 2024-spec Michelin rear tire, an aspect of the past season that only Ducati managed to fully capitalize on.

"Lewis Duncan, a journalist at Crash.net, pointed out that Aprilia's main focus with Martin […] should be to understand the ways in which the 2024 Ducati managed to optimize the performance of the 2024 Michelin rear tyre."

"The critical point for Aprilia, according to conversations with KTM and Aprilia riders, revolves around a bit of uncertainty. They believe that the issues they encountered this season were not present last season. As a result, it seems there's only one place to point the finger for this year's challenges—the introduction of the new rear tyre.

"The issue isn't with the quality of the rear tire. Rather, the latest rear tire offers significantly increased grip, a feature that only Ducati managed to fully exploit."

"After they uncovered its possibilities, no one else managed to do so."

It's understood that KTM faced significant issues with vibrations, which were probably connected to the rear tire, and Honda experienced similar troubles. Ducati also encountered this at the start, though there's little recollection of Aprilia riders reporting vibration problems. However, Aprilia had its own set of challenges, including problems with grip, traction, and rapid wear and tear during Grand Prix races.

The ability to quickly accelerate was present, and their speed in short races was satisfactory, but when it came to longer races, they faced difficulties.

Hearing Aleix Espargaro's comments in Malaysia, it was clear he was clueless. Aprilia's expectation from Martin, at the bare minimum, revolves around this notion — if they're banking on the 2024 rear tyre being a game-changer, then they have someone familiar with its effectiveness on a motorcycle that capitalized on it.

Nonetheless, although it's apparent what steps Aprilia must take leading up to the 2025 Thai Grand Prix in early March, accomplishing these will be made difficult due to staff changes at Noale during the winter season.

Marco Bezzecchi and Martin are not the only newcomers at the factory; Fabiano Sterlacchini has also joined as the new technical director, taking over from the outgoing Romano Albesiano.

Duncan stated, "Aprilia must undertake this with a fresh roster of riders and a new technical head, as Fabiano Sterlacchini has stepped in to fill the position previously held by [Romano] Albesiano."

"Sterlacchini parted ways with the KTM project in June, leaving behind a motorcycle [KTM RC16] that he struggled to optimize, particularly in maximizing the performance of the rear tire. They're facing a significant off-season, and the initial tests are poised to be quite revealing."

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In August 2024, Alex became a member of the Crash.net crew after spending two years at Visordown, where he focused on reporting about racing and consumer motorcycle news.

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Helmut Marko points out where Liam Lawson needs to improve before the 2025 F1 season. Helmut Marko evaluates Liam Lawson as he is expected to move up to Red Bull in 2025.

Helmut Marko has commended Liam Lawson for proving himself to be a "tenacious competitor" in Formula 1, yet he pointed out that Lawson must work on maintaining steadiness throughout the races.

Lawson is anticipated to join Red Bull as Max Verstappen's teammate for the Formula 1 season in 2025.

Although Lawson was consistently outperformed in qualifying by his Red Bull teammate Yuki Tsunoda, with a record of 6-0, the two were frequently divided by a margin of under one-tenth of a

Lawson's ability to adjust and potential for growth, despite his limited experience in F1, have made him a strong candidate to compete for Red Bull in 2025.

Red Bull has not yet made a decision, as they continue to engage in "positive discussions" aimed at reaching an agreement with Sergio Perez.

Evaluating Lawson's performance in Formula 1 to this point, Marko admitted he is yet to determine if the New Zealander has the potential to be "a top driver."

"Liam has demonstrated that he's a formidable competitor, unafraid to challenge renowned drivers such as Alonso, Hamilton, and Perez," Marko mentioned during the Inside Line F1 Podcast.

"Now that he might have a complete season, he must prove that he can compete effectively once more. In terms of qualifying, he performed similarly to Yuki. We need to observe how much progress he makes to determine if he has the potential to become one of the top drivers."

"I would also mention that he consistently performs well in races and achieves top times regardless of the type of driver. Although there is still some variability in his performance, it's important to note that he hasn't participated in ten Grand Prix events yet. Gaining more experience will naturally help him improve."

The most challenging role in Formula 1 for Lawson

If Red Bull elevates Lawson to the position of Verstappen’s partner, he will face the most difficult role in Formula 1.

Since 2019, Verstappen's teammates have outperformed him in qualifying on just 11 occasions.

He outperformed Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon, leading to both drivers eventually losing their positions.

Perez has spent four years with the team, and although he has outlasted those who came before him, his success can largely be attributed to the performance of the Red Bull car.

The Mexican team's lackluster performance in both 2021 and 2024 resulted in them missing the constructors' championship, even though Verstappen secured the drivers' title.

Lawson is set to take on the challenging task of approaching Verstappen, as McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes are anticipated to exert significant pressure on Red Bull in the coming year.

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Connor, who keenly observes the controversies and narratives in Formula 1, is the core of our objective journalism.

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