Valentino Rossi opens up about his personal experiences of fatherhood

Valentino Rossi jokes about saying goodbye to late-night activities

An elated Valentino Rossi has opened up about the transformations in his life since becoming a parent.

Rossi and his partner Francesca recently celebrated the arrival of their second daughter, Gabriella.

Giulietta, who arrived in 2022, marks the couple's inaugural child.

Rossi faced playful jabs during an appearance on an Italian radio program, regarding the infamous tales of his nocturnal escapades at the peak of his MotoGP career.

"He chuckled, saying, "The birth of the baby has completely reshuffled the deck."

"Now, I'm the first one up to get Giulietta ready for school. Afterwards, I prepare the milk.

"I need to get up at 7:45 in the morning!"

Check out this Instagram post shared by FRANCESCA SOFIA (@francescasofianovello).

Rossi addressed rumors claiming he would stay out partying until 4am prior to MotoGP events.

"He responded, saying that these tales have grown into legends as time passed."

"Getting to bed at 4am is somewhat delayed. I won't deny that it occurred…

"I stayed out until the early hours, though not as late as now. Maybe around 1am…"

Rossi shared his thoughts from his Tavullia ranch, where just last weekend, he hosted an impressive lineup of motorcycling stars for his yearly extravaganza.

Rossi and Luca Marini ended up securing a spot on the podium in the 100km of Champions race.

"He mentioned that it's turned into a yearly competition at the farm."

"We welcome winners from various divisions."

This event is a test of stamina, where duos of cyclists alternate positions in the pit stops every five circuits, similar to the format seen in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

"I'm riding a Yamaha, while Luca Marini is using a Honda."

"This is the sole formal cycling event I participate in, making it highly significant."

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For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter for Sky Sports, where his coverage spanned a variety of sports including American games, soccer, and Formula 1 racing.

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Valentino Rossi reveals heartfelt insights into his role as a dad

Valentino Rossi hints at saying goodbye to staying up late

An elated Valentino Rossi has opened up about the transformations in his life since becoming a parent.

Rossi and Francesca, his partner, have recently celebrated the arrival of their second daughter, whom they named Gabriella.

Giulietta, who was born in 2022, is the first child of the couple.

Rossi faced playful jabs on an Italian radio program regarding the famed tales of his nocturnal escapades at the peak of his MotoGP career.

"He chuckled, 'The birth of the baby has completely reshuffled the deck.'"

"Now, I'm the first one up to get Giulietta ready for school. After that, I prepare the milk.

"I need to get up by 7:45 in the morning!"

Check out this Instagram post shared by FRANCESCA SOFIA (@francescasofianovello)

Rossi addressed rumors about him celebrating until 4 in the morning before MotoGP competitions.

"He responded, saying that these tales have grown to be iconic over the years."

"4 in the morning is somewhat delayed. I can't deny the possibility of it occurring…

"I stayed out until the early hours, though not until now. Maybe around 1am…"

Rossi addressed the media from his Tavullia ranch, where he recently hosted an array of motorcycle racing stars for his yearly marquee event.

Rossi and Luca Marini had to accept a podium position in the 100km of Champions event.

"He mentioned that it's turned into a yearly competition at the farm."

"We welcome winners from various divisions."

This event is a test of stamina. Teams of two cyclists alternate in the pit stops every five circuits, similar to the process in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

"I'm riding a Yamaha, while Luca Marini is handling a Honda."

"This is the sole formal cycling event I participate in, making it extremely significant."

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

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Jorge Martin, battling a hangover, praises Aprilia MotoGP's debut: "Front end sensation is phenomenal."

"The experience with the bike's front end was unparalleled; it was astonishing."

Newly crowned MotoGP champion Jorge Martin disclosed that he was not at his best, feeling somewhat off-pace, as he secured the eleventh spot during his first outing with Aprilia at the Barcelona test in November.

However, this did not prevent the Spanish rider from enjoying the front-end feedback of the RS-GP, marking it as the only motorcycle besides the Ducati to secure race victories last season.

"During the Barcelona test on Tuesday, I was actually still feeling the effects of Sunday's celebrations! So, believe me, it was quite challenging to navigate the ride due to the massive party," Martin chuckled at the official unveiling of the Aprilia team, where it was also announced that he'll be competing with the #1 plate this season.

"Upon mounting the bike, I was uncertain of what lay ahead, thus I remained open-minded. The sensation at the front was astounding, truly beyond belief. In my opinion, it was the finest bike I've ever ridden, especially in regard to its front end. It was astonishing."

"Initially, my pace was somewhat sluggish, but as I gained momentum, I began to notice a few challenges," Martin explained, referencing his experience since he entered the MotoGP in 2020 as part of the Pramac Ducati team.

"Perhaps it didn't have the same impact on Aleix or Maverick, but for me, it was significant. The bike seemed less steady compared to the Ducati. However, once we began making adjustments, stability improved significantly."

Aprilia gave Martin and his new teammate Marco Bezzecchi a chance to test the 2024 bike and also provided a prototype for the 2025 model.

"Martin shared that for 2025, they experimented with fresh innovations, including a novel fairing and overall modifications to the motorcycle. He believes these adjustments represent a significant improvement from 2024, leaving him feeling hopeful."

"I suppose the grip was somewhat challenging for me too, yet I believe the adjustment issue lies more with me getting used to the motorcycle than with the motorcycle itself."

"I believe the bike is excellent and highly competitive. However, I require some time to grasp when to accelerate, where I can shave off seconds, or when it's better to decrease my speed."

Martin also recognized the necessity to adapt his riding technique to fully capitalize on the RS-GP's capabilities.

"During the trial in Barcelona, I found myself handling it as though it were a Ducati. I must significantly alter my approach," he detailed.

"I've spent the winter months analyzing how I can improve."

"I've been closely following numerous races to grasp their strengths, such as Maverick's performance in Austin and Aleix's showing in Silverstone – focusing on the highlights.

"I believe the bike is excellent. I just require some time to get used to it. Beyond that, I'm confident we can accomplish tremendous work."

Martin is set to undergo five additional days of testing starting next month at Sepang, leading up to his debut in the Aprilia grand prix at Buriram in March.

Statements given by Crash.net reporter Alex Whitworth.

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Ducati's main rival identified as the new season approaches

Analysts forecast the major challenger to Ducati's dominance

In 2025, Ducati has emerged as the leading force in MotoGP, boasting a pair of riders that rival teams admire and covet.

However, journalists at Crash.net have identified the manufacturer and rider duo poised to consistently challenge Ducati's dominance…

Jordan Moreland: While Jorge Martin and Aprilia might seem like the clear choice, that's not the one I'm going with.

Despite the unclear prospects ahead, KTM boasts a phenomenal young talent in their lineup with Pedro Acosta.

Transitioning to the factory team in 2025, I'm convinced he'll be the key challenger against Ducati.

He possesses an exceptional skill set and is intensely eager to secure his initial victory in MotoGP, having narrowly missed out several times in 2024.

KTM boasts its most formidable MotoGP team yet, featuring Brad Binder and Acosta, and has further strengthened its lineup with the inclusion of Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini in the Tech3 KTM squad. The Austrian manufacturer is under pressure to deliver significant results swiftly, which could greatly contribute to securing the team's longevity by attracting potential investors' attention.

Lewis Duncan: In 2024, Ducati proved to be an unparalleled powerhouse, clinching victories in 19 out of the 20 grand prix races available, thoroughly outperforming its competition to secure a third consecutive riders' championship.

Considering the difficulties faced by Japanese producers and the unpredictable performance of KTM in 2025 due to its ongoing financial troubles, this situation positions the only brand besides Ducati that claimed a victory in 2024 as its most apparent competitor.

Aprilia fell to third place in the constructors' rankings last year, but various crucial elements might propel it back up the ladder, potentially challenging Ducati.

Aprilia secures the talents of Jorge Martin, the world champion who consistently outperformed his competitors in 2024, riding a Ducati. His expertise with the Desmosedici, shared by Marco Bezzecchi, is expected to be a significant asset for Aprilia. Additionally, the arrival of Fabiano Sterlacchini as the technical director, bringing his experience from his time at KTM and Ducati, promises to bring innovative concepts to the race team in Noale.

Peter McLaren: Jorge Martin thrived in the role of the 'dark horse', competing as an Independent rider for Pramac, in his championship contest against factory favorite Bagnaia.

Switching to Aprilia places Martin in a comparable role as the dark horse, a condition he appears to excel in. This time, however, he brings the added advantage of being a world champion, coupled with the complete support of a factory team.

The RS-GP emerged as the sole motorcycle to outperform Ducati last season, securing four victories, among them Sprints.

Competing for the championship in 2025 might seem like a formidable challenge for Martin, yet after becoming the inaugural Independent 'MotoGP' champion, is it possible for him to secure Aprilia's maiden victory in the premier class?

It would be unexpected if he fails to claim victories, especially if the riders from Ducati Lenovo focus too much on each other and lose valuable points, Martin's ability to qualify well and maintain steady performance might lead to a significant surprise. Given that he prefers to keep the bike's settings largely unchanged, much hinges on his compatibility with the RS-GP25.

Alternatively, it could be argued that Pedro Acosta and KTM might pose a significant challenge to Ducati.

Derry Munikartono: My choices for the main competitors are the usual ones—KTM and Aprilia, who pose significant challenges to the Italian powerhouse.

Aprilia's team is set to receive a significant boost as Jorge Martin, the reigning MotoGP champion, and former Ducati rider Marco Bezzecchi join their factory lineup.

At the same time, KTM boasts an intriguing roster of riders. Pedro Acosta and Brad Binder make up the Factory Team, complemented by the pairing of Grand Prix champions Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini at Tech3 KTM.

Both manufacturing plants undoubtedly possess significant potential. However, they must address certain challenges to position themselves as a credible challenge to Ducati.

The economic downturn affecting the parent organization, Pierer Mobility Group, has had repercussions on KTM, impacting their MotoGP initiative as well.

The strategy for the 2025 season is still in place, as they had accounted for the costs before the financial issues emerged. However, what lies ahead after this season, as well as the progression of the RC16, is highly uncertain.

Aprilia's financial situation has improved, yet they are dealing with their own set of challenges.

The team from Noale is currently undergoing a phase of reconstruction, having parted ways with three out of their four riders from the previous year, and also welcoming Fabiano Sterlacchini from KTM as their new technical leader.

Following a disappointing conclusion to their hopeful 2024 season, Aprilia faces significant challenges in refining the RS-GP to effectively compete against Ducati.

Regarding the Japanese manufacturer, they face a significant challenge in competing with Ducati.

I propose that Yamaha is poised for another successful year refining the M1, while Honda is expected to make similar progress with their RCV model.

In my opinion, Yamaha is poised to return to the MotoGP podium, whereas Honda is set to consistently challenge within the top-10 rankings.

Alex Whitworth: In 2024, KTM secured the runner-up position in the constructor rankings, however, Aprilia is expected to take over this spot in 2025.

The financial difficulties faced by the Austrian firm have been extensively reported, and it's expected that these issues will affect their performance in competitions, although the exact consequences are yet to be determined.

Conversely, Aprilia has revamped its technical direction by bringing onboard Fabiano Sterlacchini and, notably for the 2025 season, has enhanced its team of riders. This includes the addition of Marco Bezzecchi and the recent MotoGP World Champion, Jorge Martin, to its initiative.

Martin is expected to outperform Bezzecchi, and both should frequently finish among the top three. While challenging the main Ducati riders directly may not be a common occurrence, it's not out of the question. However, they are anticipated to consistently outpace KTM, particularly as the season progresses.

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Marco Bezzecchi expressed a cautious sentiment, acknowledging the potential consequences of speaking carelessly. He noted, "Seeing the crowd around me made me think, 'Alright, speaking without thinking could really land me in trouble now!'"

Following three years with the VR46 satellite squad, Marco Bezzecchi fully grasped what it means to be a factory MotoGP racer once he completed his initial test for Aprilia in Barcelona this past November.

"Being part of a factory team for the first time was truly incredible," Bezzecchi remarked. "The leap from a satellite team to a factory team is substantial. Suddenly, you represent a whole brand, with hundreds of individuals working on your behalf, and it's remarkable."

"However, the most significant change lies within the confines of the box. Halting [in the pits] brings about a noticeable increase in the number of individuals surrounding you."

"Additionally, I felt somewhat anxious because upon taking my seat, I noticed the crowd and thought, 'Alright, if I talk nonsense now, that's going to be an issue!'" he said humorously.

"It was quite impressive. Additionally, the amount of effort observed in the factory was noteworthy, and they genuinely strive to provide you with all the essentials."

"Undoubtedly, the satellite team does their utmost to support you, yet it's an entirely different scenario when you have a manufacturer backing you up."

While Aprilia's recent acquisition, current champion Jorge Martin, has undoubtedly garnered significant attention, the decision to sign Bezzecchi has also been warmly received by the Italian supporters.

In 2020, Aprilia Racing's CEO, Massimo Rivola, made an attempt to recruit Bezzecchi from the Moto2 category.

Bez declined the opportunity, yet a disappointing 2024, coupled with the ascent of Martin and Marc Marquez, led to the Italian losing his position in the race for a spot with the Ducati factory team, just as an opening emerged at Aprilia.

"In late 2020, Massimo extended an invitation for me to move up to MotoGP, however, I didn't think I was prepared at that moment," Bezzecchi explained. "Therefore, I chose to remain in Moto2, yet he provided me with the opportunity to hold the handlebar!"

"Upon learning last year that Aleix planned to retire, I quickly told my manager, ‘We should aim for a spot at Aprilia’. It was a mutual desire, which made it even better when Massimo offered me the other handlebar grip!"

"I believe it's a remarkable family. The reception I received during my factory visit yesterday was beyond my expectations. Observing the people gazing at us with emotional eyes deeply moved me."

"I'm looking forward to building a lasting partnership with them and I really hope the audience appreciates it. More than anything, I'm eager to see how quickly I can ride this motorcycle."

In 2024, despite a generally unremarkable season on the GP23 circuit, Bezzecchi demonstrated his skill by securing three MotoGP victories and achieving third place in the 2023 world championship.

What would the experience of securing a victory for Aprilia be like?

"He mentioned, "It's going to be a whole new experience. Each race stands out on its own. Currently, I'm overwhelmed with affection from everyone at Aprilia, which really boosts my morale. It allows me to relax a bit more.

"We're optimistic that a victory is on the horizon. Understanding the challenge ahead, our goal remains to swiftly adjust to one another. This includes my adaptation to the motorcycle, the team's adaptation to me, and vice versa."

"I'm unsure about the exact emotion that will overcome me [should I secure a victory for Aprilia], but tears are likely to follow! Shedding tears in moments of joy is truly a wonderful thing."

Bezzecchi, who finished 13th but was closely competitive with Martin during the Barcelona test, is set to return to the RS-GP25 for the pre-season testing scheduled to start in Sepang come February.

Statements supplied by Alex Whitworth, correspondent for Crash.net.

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Romano Albesiano steps onto the track in his inaugural appearance as HRC's technical director at an exclusive Buriram test session, while Aleix Espargaro hints at a 2025 Honda model.

As his previous team, Aprilia, was in the spotlight for its 2025 unveiling in Italy, Aleix Espargaro returned to the racing circuit with HRC in Buriram.

Following his transition from the RS-GP project to his close ally and current titleholder Jorge Martin, the recently retired Espargaro immediately embraced his position as a test rider for Honda, participating in sessions at Barcelona, Jerez, and most recently, Buriram.

Crash.net has also disclosed that HRC's newly appointed technical director, Romano Albesiano, accompanied Espargaro to Thailand this week.

The Italian, who had previously collaborated with Espargaro to evolve the RS-GP into a contender capable of winning MotoGP races, embarked on his first track outing for HRC, having been unable to participate in the Barcelona and Jerez tests because of obligations tied to his former contract with Aprilia.

Update: Aleix Espargaro has recently shared an image that verifies Albesiano's attendance at Buriram.

Check out this Instagram post shared by Aleix 41 (@aleixespargaro)

Limited information has been shared regarding the secretive Buriram test that took place this week. However, during the second day of the event on Friday, Espargaro offered a glimpse into the newest RC213V model by posting a photo on Instagram.

Selecting Buriram as a location came as an unexpected move, as it hadn't been chosen before for private MotoGP tests.

Nevertheless, the Thailand circuit isn't just kicking off the 2025 season as its first race; it's also the venue for the upcoming Official pre-season test scheduled for February 12-13 next month.

HRC might therefore be leveraging the private test to assess components before the two Sepang events, starting on January 31st (Shakedown) and February 5th (official test), in addition to collecting information for the Official Buriram test.

Michelin provides specially designed tyres that are resistant to heat to handle the extreme temperatures and pressures experienced at the Thai track.

Espargaro is anticipated to join Takaaki Nakagami, another ex-regular racer, for a ride this week before participating in the upcoming tests in Sepang.

Despite the allowance for all four Honda racers to join the Shakedown due to concessions, the intent to preserve testing tires could result in only the Thai newcomer Somkiat Chantra hitting the Sepang circuit before the official Malaysian test commences.

Honda HRC team racers Joan Mir and Luca Marini will be unable to participate in portions of the Shakedown due to their team's unveiling event scheduled in Indonesia on February 1, which coincides with the second day of testing.

Yamaha is also scheduling the unveiling of its MotoGP teams, Monster and Pramac, on the first evening of the Shakedown event.

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Peter has spent two decades in the racing field, witnessing Valentino Rossi's rise and departure. He's also leading the coverage on Suzuki's withdrawal from racing and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with his injuries.

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Might Jorge Martin's "secret weapon" propel him to the 2025 MotoGP championship?

"Without a doubt, understanding how to tackle this fresh endeavor is crucial…"

In 2024, Jorge Martin underwent a significant mental transformation that led him to secure his first-ever top-tier championship. Now, the challenge ahead is to protect his title as he advances to a factory team role within a team that has yet to achieve a MotoGP championship victory.

Following his loss to Francesco Bagnaia for the 2023 championship, the Spanish rider sought the expertise of a sports psychologist. The psychological strategies he adopted over the past year led to him securing one fewer Grand Prix victory than in 2023, yet he amassed 80 additional points due to his remarkable consistency. He achieved podium finishes in 32 of the 40 races held, missing the podium in only eight events.

"Ever since I began this practice, I've continued without interruption and plan to keep focusing on the psychological aspect even post-retirement," stated Martin during the unveiling of the 2025 Aprilia MotoGP team, where he and Marco Bezzecchi were introduced as the official team members for the current season.

"I believe it's the secret to existence."

"I've devoted a lot of time to practicing and experimenting with new techniques. However, I'll hold back on sharing too much since I'd rather not reveal any strategies to my competitors."

"Certainly, it's crucial to understand the right strategy for tackling this new endeavor. Reflecting on my mindset from a year ago, I would have expressed a strong desire to emerge victorious once more, to prove to everyone my superiority."

"For me, currently, the situation is different. I'm now faced with the personal challenge of ensuring the success of this project. I believe it's truly a wonderful project."

"No one has previously achieved victory with Aprilia in the MotoGP, which fills me with immense enthusiasm to be the first. I'm fully committed to making it happen."

"I possess a great deal of resolve. However, […] I am unable to promise any outcomes since this is entirely unfeasible.

"I promise to give my absolute all and am prepared to make numerous sacrifices to ensure this project is a success."

This broader outlook enabled Martin to tap into a higher level of performance in his championship-winning season of 2024, overcoming the errors that had held him back from seizing a title he had the speed to secure in 2023.

The Spanish rider, who announced his decision to use the #1 plate during Aprilia’s team unveiling, aims to adopt a balanced viewpoint in assuming his dual role as the reigning World Champion and the forefront figure of Aprilia’s MotoGP initiative.

"Martin mentioned, 'Being the top choice for individuals doesn't bother me at all.'"

To me, it's crucial to concentrate on the aspects within my power, such as maintaining speed, dedicating myself to daily training, and striving to improve as a rider each day.

"Thus, if individuals appreciate me, fine. If not, that's fine too. It's beyond my control, so they're free to have their opinions."

"My goal is to create a fulfilling project and career that I'll look back on with pride upon retirement. That's my ambition. Currently, holding the top spot, I'm prepared to embrace this challenge, recognizing the difficulty after battling tirelessly for years."

"Currently, I don't see myself as the lead figure. However, perhaps by the year's end or into next year, we could revisit this topic."

Switching to Aprilia in 2025 poses challenges for Martin in his quest to retain his 2024 championship title, especially considering Ducati's recent stronghold on MotoGP and their formidable roster of factory riders for the next season. However, he maintains that he's currently not setting any expectations for himself.

"Forecasting the outcomes for [2025] is beyond our reach," he remarked in response to inquiries about his chances of clinching the 2025 championship.

"Perhaps it could be, perhaps not."

"Beginning on a positive note, I sense there's a significant chance for development. So, it's uncertain – we might achieve it, or we might not."

"Thus, I'm currently not setting any expectations for outcomes."

"From the onset, I plan to set our goals progressively, aiming to be the most exceptional version of myself as Martin, while Aprilia strives to excel as a manufacturer and create the finest motorcycle possible."

"This is the sole aspect within our grasp."

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In August 2024, Alex became part of the Crash.net crew after spending two years reporting on consumer and racing motorcycle news for Visordown.

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Ducati's Marquez/Bagnaia pairing in MotoGP likened to the Rossi/Lorenzo duo

"It seems there hasn't been a team of this caliber in the modern era"

Ducati's team leader, Davide Tardozzi, believes that their MotoGP factory team for 2025, featuring Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia, is on par with the legendary duo of Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo when they were at Yamaha.

Following Marquez's decision to turn down a factory Ducati ride with Pramac for the 2025 season, the Italian company reversed its initial plan to elevate Jorge Martin to the team, making him a teammate of Bagnaia.

Together, Marquez and Bagnaia boast a total of eight MotoGP championships and 11 titles spanning all classes, making them the most decorated duo on the 2025 grid by sheer numbers.

In a conversation with AS, Tardozzi drew parallels between his 2025 team and the partnership of Rossi and Lorenzo at Yamaha.

"Tardozzi expressed his belief that their team is on par with the legendary duo of Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo."

"It's my belief that no other team in recent memory matches this caliber."

"In my opinion, Marc excels in riding not only because of his skill but also due to his admirable character. To me, what sets him apart is his ability to be open-minded and thoughtful."

"He possesses a worldwide perspective that enables him to be fully prepared for any situation."

"The individual is in complete sync with the horse. To excel as a rider, one must also excel as a human being. Without this, there is a vulnerability."

Ducati's chief, Claudio Domenicali, likened Marquez and Bagnaia to "jets breaking the sound barrier," possessing "astonishing capabilities."

"Pecco and Marc, being tremendous champions, pose a unique challenge in overseeing such a multifaceted team," he remarked during a Ducati gathering last December.

"They resemble high-speed aircraft, challenging to pilot yet possessing unparalleled velocity. The possibilities are astounding."

The Ducati racing team is set to kick off its 2025 campaign on January 20, featuring Marquez and Bagnaia, in Italy.

This occasion will represent Marquez's inaugural appearance donned in the official Ducati team livery.

On Thursday, Jorge Martin, the current MotoGP world champion who secured the 2024 championship riding for Ducati, announced his decision to compete with the #1 plate during his inaugural season with the Aprilia factory team.

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LIVE STREAMING: Gresini Racing reveals their 2025 MotoGP design

Alex Marquez and Fermin Aldeguer showcase Gresini's new look for 2025

The Gresini Racing squad is set to unveil its 2025 MotoGP campaign on Saturday, January 18th, at the renowned Imola track in Italy, featuring riders Alex Marquez and Fermin Aldeguer.

The 2025 season will mark Gresini's fourth year since it resumed operation as a fully independent team, following its period from 2015 to 2021 when it managed Aprilia's official team entry.

Embarking on its fourth consecutive year as a satellite team for Ducati, Gresini Racing is pleased to have Alex Marquez return for his third season, alongside newcomer Fermin Aldeguer.

Aldeguer is advancing from Moto2 after securing a contract with Ducati early in the previous year. The 19-year-old secured a fifth-place finish in the Moto2 rankings last season and is among three rookies making their debut on the race grid in 2025.

Since joining forces with Ducati, Gresini has achieved Grand Prix wins annually, initially through Enea Bastianini, followed by Fabio Di Giannantonio, and most recently with Marc Marquez in 2024.

Following an impressive debut season with Gresini aboard the Ducati in 2022, Alex Marquez found it challenging to maintain his performance on the challenging GP23, securing only one podium finish and concluding the season in eighth place in the rankings.

Marquez and Aldeguer are set to compete on GP24 motorcycles this upcoming season.

The Gresini unveiling ceremony is set to start at 5:15pm GMT.

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Yamaha clarifies its position following the termination of its association with Valentino Rossi's apparel brand

Yamaha updates on its current relationship status with VR46

In 2025, Yamaha announced the discontinuation of Valentino Rossi's apparel line.

The iconic MotoGP figure is parting ways with the motorcycle brand that became a significant part of his legacy.

Up until the current year, the attire for Yamaha's MotoGP squad was supplied by Rossi's VR46 label.

This year, Yamaha has unveiled a fresh partnership with the Italian company Macron to produce their official apparel.

Maio Meregalli, the team manager for Yamaha, was confronted with the notion that they “appear to be severing connections with their history”.

However, Meregalli explained to GPOne, “It's a result, but not due to the attire.

"The discussions with the new supplier commenced significantly ahead of time."

The partnership between Rossi's VR46 team and Yamaha for the Moto2 team will come to an end.

Pramac, transitioning from Ducati to Yamaha, will oversee the brand's Moto2 operations.

"Meregalli clarified that the Moto2 team was managed by a separate Yamaha division, distinct from the one overseeing MotoGP, before it was handed over to VR46."

"Currently, there's been a shift in momentum."

"The management and operations of the MotoGP will be under the control and responsibility of Pramac."

Rossi will maintain his connection with Yamaha, serving as an official representative.

Nonetheless, his VR46 MotoGP team has solidified their partnership with Ducati.

This year, VR46 has gained an advantage following Pramac's transition to Yamaha.

VR46 is set to be Ducati's primary satellite squad, thereby gaining access to a factory-spec motorcycle for this season.

Fabio di Giannantonio will utilize identical equipment as official racers Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia.

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For ten years, James dedicated his career to sports journalism at Sky Sports, where he reported on a wide range of sports including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

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LIVE COVERAGE: Gresini Racing reveals its 2025 MotoGP design

Alex Marquez and Fermin Aldeguer unveil the 2025 Gresini team livery

The Gresini Racing squad is set to kick off its 2025 MotoGP campaign on Saturday, January 18, at the renowned Imola track in Italy, featuring riders Alex Marquez and Fermin Aldeguer.

The 2025 season will mark Gresini's fourth year since becoming a fully independent team again, following their management of Aprilia's factory team from 2015 to 2021.

As Gresini embarks on its fourth year as a Ducati satellite team, it is set to have Alex Marquez return for his third season. Joining him will be newcomer Fermin Aldeguer.

Aldeguer is making the move from Moto2 after inking a contract directly with Ducati at the beginning of last year. The 19-year-old secured the fifth position in the Moto2 rankings last year and is among three newcomers to the lineup in 2025.

After teaming up with Ducati, Gresini has consistently achieved grand prix wins each year, initially with Enea Bastianini, followed by Fabio Di Giannantonio, and most recently with Marc Marquez in 2024.

In 2022, Alex Marquez had an impressive debut season with Gresini riding a Ducati. However, in the following year with the challenging GP23, he found it difficult to maintain that level of performance, achieving only one podium finish and concluding the season in eighth place in the rankings.

This season, Marquez and Aldeguer are set to compete using GP24 motorcycles.

The Gresini unveiling event is scheduled to start at 5:15 PM GMT.

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Yamaha clarifies the situation following the end of its partnership with Valentino Rossi’s apparel brand

Yamaha outlines current relationship with VR46

Yamaha announced that they will be ending their association with Valentino Rossi's clothing brand in 2025.

It's a minor departure from the MotoGP icon closely associated with the motorcycle brand during his prime.

Up until this year, the clothing worn by Yamaha's MotoGP team was produced by the VR46 brand, owned by Rossi.

This year, Yamaha revealed a fresh partnership with the Italian company Macron to produce their official apparel.

Yamaha team manager Maio Meregalli was asked if they appear to be moving away from their previous connections.

However, Meregalli explained to GPOne, "It's a result, but it's not due to the attire."

"The discussions with the new supplier were initiated much earlier."

Valentino Rossi's VR46 organization and Yamaha have decided to end their partnership concerning the Moto2 team.

Pramac will take over the management of Yamaha's Moto2 team as they transition from their previous partnership with Ducati.

Meregalli clarified that a different branch of Yamaha, separate from the one managing MotoGP, initially handled the Moto2 before it was transferred to VR46.

"At the moment, there has been a shift in momentum."

The MotoGP organization will manage it, with Pramac being given the responsibility for its operation.

Rossi will maintain his connection with Yamaha by serving as an official ambassador.

The VR46 MotoGP team has deepened its partnership with Ducati.

This year, with Pramac moving over to Yamaha, VR46 stands to gain from the transition.

VR46 is set to become Ducati's primary satellite team. Consequently, they will have access to one factory-spec motorcycle this year.

Fabio di Giannantonio is set to compete using the same equipment as the official riders Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia.

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James spent ten years as a sports journalist with Sky Sports, where he reported on a wide range of topics including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

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