Who are the potential driver signings for GM's F1 2026 lineup? Here are 10 prospective candidates

As General Motors looks poised to join F1 as the 11th team by 2026, the question arises: which drivers will they recruit?

General Motors is set to join Formula 1 in 2026, creating two additional spots for drivers on the starting lineup.

General Motors, together with its luxury division Cadillac, is poised to join the global championship as the eleventh team in a little over a year, following a tentative deal with F1 that was revealed on Monday.

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This raises the query, who might be behind the wheel for the major American automobile manufacturer in 2026?

Should General Motors be in search of a seasoned grand prix racer for one of their vehicles, Valtteri Bottas would emerge as a prime candidate.

The driver who has clinched victory in 10 grand prix races appears poised to join Mercedes as a backup driver in 2025 following the loss of his position at Sauber. However, the 35-year-old from Finland has no intention of remaining in a limited role.

Bottas would eagerly seize the chance to get back into racing, and the allure of the thrilling General Motors-Cadillac initiative would undoubtedly be appealing.

Kevin Magnussen presents another seasoned choice, similar to Bottas, as he also lacks a seat in the F1 2025 lineup.

Known for his expertise in midfield play, the 32-year-old Danish driver has reliably contributed performance and points for the American team Haas ever since he first became part of the team in 2017.

Yuki Tsunoda presents a fascinating and promising opportunity for General Motors.

Tsunoda seems to have been disregarded by Red Bull, with his prospects of joining the main team looking dim, even though he has shown better performance compared to former teammates such as the recently dismissed Daniel Ricciardo. Ricciardo, on the other hand, might be considered an unexpected, though improbable, choice for General Motors.

The 24-year-old driver from Japan is committed to Red Bull's affiliated team, RB, until the close of 2025, at which point he will face a significant choice.

If Red Bull continues to overlook Tsunoda, he might consider exiting the team entirely. In such a scenario, General Motors could potentially provide him with an opportunity, especially if they choose Honda as their temporary engine provider.

Starting in 2026, Aston Martin will also be equipped with Honda engines, potentially putting General Motors in a competitive situation with multiple parties to lock in Tsunoda's talents.

General Motors has identified a new, youthful prospect in Franco Colapinto. Despite not attracting much attention in Formula 2, the 21-year-old from Argentina has quickly risen to fame in Formula 1.

Stepping in for the dismissed Logan Sargeant at Williams for the latter part of the 2024 season, Colapinto has garnered attention with multiple outstanding displays.

He has impressively challenged his esteemed colleague Alex Albon, contributing five vital points to Williams' score in the crucial constructors' championship.

During his brief time in Formula 1, Colapinto has demonstrated ample talent and skill, indicating that he merits a permanent position on the racing lineup, a prospect he, as of now, lacks for the 2025 season or any future seasons.

Should General Motors be in the market for an American driver, several intriguing options are available.

If Williams considers Sargeant to be below their standards, it would be unexpected for General Motors to consider offering him another opportunity.

For some time now, Colton Herta has been rumored to be considering a move to Formula 1. However, his aspirations have been hindered by not having enough points for a super licence, which dashed his hopes of possibly becoming part of Red Bull's lineup. Additionally, he was quickly associated with Andretti Global's first attempt to enter the competition.

The young racer from California, aged 24, has quickly become an IndyCar sensation, significantly advancing in the sport since setting a record as the youngest winner of a race in the series back in 2019.

Herta has since accumulated an additional eight victories and recently experienced his most successful season in IndyCar yet, securing a second-place finish in the 2024 championship.

General Motors has the option to consider two promising young talents from America for future racing prospects: 19-year-old Jak Crawford, currently competing in F2, and 17-year-old Ugo Ugochukwu, who has clinched victory at the Macau Grand Prix and is part of McLaren's junior team. Nevertheless, the transition to F1 by 2026 might be slightly premature for both drivers.

Alex Palou, achieving significant triumphs in IndyCar by securing three championships within a four-year period, may be considered a potential contender. He has been associated in the past with the upcoming Audi team and various potential Formula 1 projects.

IndyCar sensation Pato O’Ward has experienced the thrill of Formula 1 cars, serving as a reserve driver for McLaren and participating in multiple first practice sessions.

The champion of the 2018 Indy Lights and victor of seven IndyCar races also maintains a close connection with General Motors via his existing relationship with Chevrolet.

Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix worldwide for Crash.net. Typically delivering reports directly from the event locations, Lewis shares the narratives of the key figures in the sport.

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Leading Candidate Emerges to Provide General Motors with Temporary F1 Engine Solution

General Motors is poised to acquire an F1 engine from either Ferrari or Honda.

Ferrari has surfaced as the frontrunner to be General Motors' engine provider for the F1 2026 season.

According to BBC Sport, negotiations are still underway, but Ferrari currently leads as the top contender.

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General Motors has officially become a registered manufacturer of F1 power units, aiming to introduce their own engine before the decade concludes.

In the interim, the American team will have to purchase an engine from another manufacturer until they can develop their own. This is not anticipated to happen before 2028 at the earliest.

Therefore, General Motors will face a period of at least two seasons to bridge upon forming an alliance with Cadillac.

Ferrari, the engine supplier for Haas and Sauber, will have an additional supply capacity starting in 2026 as Sauber transitions into Audi. The German brand intends to develop and operate its own engine at that time.

General Motors could naturally consider Honda as another likely choice.

The Japanese company presently supplies engines to Red Bull and its affiliate team, RB.

The team from Milton Keynes has established an internal engine department named Red Bull Powertrains. In partnership with Ford, Red Bull's proprietary power unit is scheduled to be launched in 2026.

In 2026, Aston Martin will receive engines from Honda, which also has the capability to offer power units to additional client teams.

1978 Formula One champion Mario Andretti has been appointed as a board director in an advisory capacity for the team, without taking part in the regular operations.

Michael Andretti, his son, will no longer serve as the team boss, having withdrawn from his position.

The recruitment efforts of the American team to attract seasoned F1 personnel are underway, with former Renault members Nick Chester, Pat Symonds, and Rob White all participating in the initiative.

Lewis frequently covers Grands Prix worldwide for Crash.net. Reporting directly from the events, he shares the narratives of the key figures in the sport.

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Max Verstappen's Formula 1 opponents assert that the recently declared four-time world champion is not invincible.

Competitors of Max Verstappen are convinced that the Red Bull racer can be defeated, even though he has secured his fourth straight F1 world title.

Securing a fifth-place spot in the recent Las Vegas Grand Prix, Verstappen managed to extend his lead over his main competitor, Lando Norris, to a point where it became insurmountable, clinching the championship title with a pair of races yet to unfold.

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Verstappen kicked off the season with exceptional performance, securing victories in seven out of the first ten races. However, following this impressive streak, the Dutch driver has managed to clinch just one more win.

Following his commanding victory in Las Vegas, Mercedes racer George Russell emphasized that "no one is invincible."

Russell further commented, "There are times when teams and their drivers are on a winning streak, leading others to believe they couldn't possibly challenge them if they were to compete. However, it's crucial to maintain confidence in your own abilities."

Speaking for myself, partnering with Lewis, who I consider the best there ever was, and Max, who's undoubtedly on par with Lewis, I genuinely believe in my ability to compete against him if we had the same equipment.

Carlos Sainz of Ferrari, who took third place, shared Russell's sentiments.

"Sainz mentioned, "While I believe Max truly excelled this season… the latter part of the year demonstrated that when our equipment levels are more balanced, we're able to challenge one another and complicate things for each other."

When people feel the weight of pressure, they begin to err. Complaints about their car become common, both directly and through the media. It all boils down to how one handles stress.

"When you lack a significant lead of two to three tenths over your closest competitor or your team member, the tension intensifies, reminding us that everyone has their limits."

Having secured his title for the fourth consecutive time, Verstappen is expecting a significant challenge in the upcoming season.

"He expressed his pride in the team's unity during the challenging races they didn't win."

For the coming year, we're brimming with new concepts. Some aspects couldn't be altered in time this year, so they're on the agenda for the next. I'm optimistic these changes will enhance the car's performance and competitiveness, especially since I'm aware our rivals aren't resting on their laurels.

"The upcoming year will feature a major contest."

Lewis frequently covers Grand Prix events globally for Crash.net. Reporting live from the venues, he shares the narratives of the key figures in the sport.

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Michael Andretti Speaks Out Following Approval of 11th F1 Team Excluding Him

Michael Andretti Unsuccessful in Securing F1 Entry Deal

The anticipated addition to the Formula 1 lineup will not carry the Andretti brand, contrary to previous expectations.

Michael Andretti, who put up a fierce battle to secure a spot on the F1 grid, has for the first time publicly addressed General Motors' successful negotiation to enter the competition.

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Cadillac, supported by General Motors, has reached a preliminary deal with Formula 1 and the International Automobile Federation (FIA) to enter the racing series in 2026.

"Andretti noted in his initial remarks following the confirmation of the deal that the Cadillac F1 Team consists of a dedicated team that has relentlessly worked to establish an American works team."

"I'm extremely pleased with the dedication they've shown and offer my congratulations to everyone on this significant advancement. I'll be rooting for you!"

Nonetheless, the Andretti moniker will not be carried by the 11th team in F1.

Michael Andretti had made efforts to introduce Andretti Global into Formula 1 racing. While the FIA gave its nod of approval, the current 10 Formula 1 teams were not in favor. However, General Motors still had an opportunity open to them.

In September, Andretti relinquished his position of authority.

After negotiations, an agreement has been tentatively reached that will see Dan Towriss taking charge, involving both the Cadillac and General Motors brands.

The sole connection of the Andretti family to the recent Formula 1 initiative is through Michael Andretti’s famous dad, Mario Andretti, a past F1 champion, who serves on the board of directors.

The fresh squad is scheduled to enter the circuit in 2026, coinciding with the inaugural year of the updated rules.

Their goal is to develop their own engines and transform into a fully integrated manufacturer team by the decade's close.

The supplier of their engines for their debut season in F1 has yet to be announced.

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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Red Bull's technical chief shares reasons for lack of confidence in 2025: "My lack of confidence stems from the belief that our competitors are extremely fast."

The technical director of Red Bull expresses a lack of confidence for the upcoming season, yet maintains that this mindset will serve the team well.

Max Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive F1 drivers' title, yet Red Bull faced intense competition from McLaren this year, with their previous season's dominance fading away.

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McLaren and Ferrari have surpassed Red Bull in the team standings of the championship.

Ultimately, Red Bull's impressive early performance in 2024 was crucial for Verstappen to successfully fend off Lando Norris' competition and secure the drivers' championship.

Technical chief Pierre Wache shared with Autosport that they are satisfied with the swift progress made on the RB20.

However, Wache expressed, "I don't feel optimistic about '25."

"I lack confidence because I believe the competition is either too fast or already in place. It's going to be a battle throughout the entire year."

The individual responsible for the development of Red Bull's 2025 vehicle, now under increased observation following Adrian Newey’s departure, is confident that his approach will benefit the team.

"He stated, 'If you believe in this business, it's a mistake.'"

"Everyone must put in effort, and within the team, everyone needs to contribute diligently. Everyone is putting in the effort."

"Observing the multitude of individuals striving to enhance performance by even the slightest margin demonstrates the complexity of the challenge."

"My self-doubt stems from the belief that being overly confident can lead to complacency, preventing one from putting in the necessary effort and ultimately hindering achievement."

Verstappen faced a surprising streak of 10 races without a win, while Norris appeared close to overtaking him for the championship.

Wache has now pinpointed the exact time when they grasped the problems with the RB20.

"He stated, 'Monza undeniably served as a critical juncture and a moment of realization for us.'"

"It brought to light a problem with the car that we hadn't noticed previously… or perhaps we had noticed, but it was only a suspicion or a hunch."

In the coming year, McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes aim to challenge Red Bull’s dominance.

Meanwhile, Newey is set to commence his role at Aston Martin, where the primary aim is to craft the premier vehicle tailored for the 2026 regulations.

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

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Luca Marini presents a differing perspective on Honda compared to Joan Mir

Luca Marini issues a caution regarding development progress

Luca Marini has responded to statements made by his MotoGP teammate Joan Mir, who argued that Honda failed to introduce any innovations during the off-season test. However, Marini cautioned that improvements are expected to be gradual.

Mir was dissatisfied with the outcome of the previous week's test in Barcelona, describing it as “not productive” because all the equipment Honda provided for testing had been previously utilized.

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LCR's Johann Zarco mentioned that he tested a new motorcycle from Honda, but described the experience as "nothing positive." However, he also emphasized that it's too early to be overly concerned.

Conversely, Marini remarked that there was more for him to examine than anticipated, noting that the prototype for 2025 would definitely serve as the foundation for the Sepang test.

The Italian rider observed that the updated frame enhanced the bike's front-end performance, yet it failed to address the ongoing rear traction problems that have plagued the Honda throughout the season.

"I sincerely had quite a few options to explore on my end."

"I had anticipated having only a few things to test due to the initial plan, yet in the end, I encountered a considerable number of items: a novel prototype bike that will undoubtedly serve as the foundation for the Sepang test."

"Clearly, it hasn't reached the speed of the regular bike we used over the weekend, but we did discover a positive aspect."

"Undoubtedly, there's still a need to address the bike's persistent flaws, though certain aspects showed improvement while others fell short."

"This is typically expected for the initial trial of the 25th [bike]."

Regarding the updated chassis, he mentioned: "I believe there was a significant transformation, mainly because the framework alteration is substantial."

"At the forefront, there lies something beneficial, something optimistic.

"At the back end, there's still room for enhancement, yet there are numerous adjustments we have yet to explore given that the frame represents a significant modification."

"They didn't opt for a minor adjustment; instead, they implemented a significant transformation to grasp what lies ahead. However, some aspects might be beneficial, while others may not."

Marini pointed out that the chassis evaluation "wasn't conducted flawlessly," implying that any drawbacks observed might not be directly linked to the frame itself but rather to the broader motorcycle configuration.

Honda is set to be in Jerez this week for their last 2024 test session, where Marini mentions, "we'll see some fresh, and arguably more fascinating, updates."

When inquired about the possibility of Honda, who ended up at the bottom of the constructors' standings in 2024, making substantial progress by the first test of 2025, he responded, "I'm not sure. It feels somewhat premature before Sepang. We might have to wait until around mid-season to achieve a significant improvement."

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Fabio Quartararo expressed his disappointment at not securing any podium finishes, yet he also mentioned, "…now I'm actually starting to have fun riding the motorcycle because I'm able to test its boundaries."

Fabio Quartararo concluded the winter hiatus by unexpectedly securing the second-fastest time during the MotoGP testing session in Barcelona.

The show offered a much-needed uplift following Yamaha's most challenging season in the MotoGP era.

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For the first time since its introduction in 2002, Yamaha's M1 did not secure a single grand prix podium, and the team's top racer, Quartararo, finished 13th in the world championship standings.

What is the French individual going to request from Santa Claus this holiday season?

“At the start, all I’m really seeking is control and traction,” Quartararo remarked, having tested new modifications including a redesigned frame, aerodynamics, swingarm, and motor.

"In terms of traction, we're significantly lacking, and I believe that to achieve high speeds, it's the initial priority."

"The energy has already been boosted thanks to Santa Claus arriving ahead of time with additional support, yet I plan to seek out even more, aware of our inevitable need for it!"

Speaking about his most challenging season in the premier class, following three podium finishes and a tenth-place ranking in the previous year’s championship, Quartararo remarked:

"Clearly, there's a sense of disappointment over not securing any podium finishes or standout races. However, it's crucial for us to leave with the positive takeaway from the last four races, where we've seen improvement."

In the wet Jerez Sprint, Quartararo almost reached the podium, but a penalty related to his tires after the race deprived him of the third-place finish.

His top performance in a grand prix was securing the sixth position at the Sepang circuit.

Although the outcomes haven't met Quartararo or Yamaha's expectations, the 2021 world champion firmly believes the project is making progress.

Quartararo pointed out the significant presence of engineers, from both Japan and Italy, in the pit box during the test.

"This year has seen enhancements in our approach to upgrading the bicycle, making the journey to work more efficient."

"Yamaha found it challenging to completely shift their mindset, which understandably required a significant amount of time. With the introduction of enhancements, fresh faces, and a brand-new team setup, there have been numerous changes. It's also worth noting that Augusto Fernandez was seen joining us in the pit box."

"I believe there are significant changes happening. This includes the test team as well. Gradually, we'll make a return. Naturally, I'd prefer it to be immediate, but these improvements require time, and the project is on an upward trajectory."

Is Quartararo feeling more connected to the leading position following the outcomes of the Barcelona trial?

"I sense an improvement in speed, perhaps even proximity, though it's challenging to make a precise assessment during a test day. However, regarding our standing, there appears to be a slight enhancement, despite it being merely a trial."

"However, our genuine standing will become clear on the final day in Thailand [next year]."

Quartararo also emphasized that he's finding pleasure in riding the M1 once more.

He expressed, "To me, it doesn't feel like work at all. I've found joy in biking. I've begun to truly appreciate it because it allows me to test my boundaries."

"Our objective is distinct – to return to the forefront. We are committed to taking any steps necessary to achieve this as quickly as possible."

Peter has spent two decades in the racing circuit, witnessing Valentino Rossi's rise and retirement. He is leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure from the scene and Marc Marquez's battles with injuries.

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A MotoGP competitor has not had the opportunity to trial his 2025 model motorcycle.

"The '25 model wasn't available for us to use."

During the Barcelona test, Raul Fernandez, who rides for Trackhouse Aprilia in the MotoGP, wasn't equipped with the 2025 RS-GP model. However, significant progress was achieved, making it a critical day of testing.

Fernandez faced challenges during his second year with the satellite Aprilia team, transitioning from the 2023 RS-GP model to the 2024 version midway through the season.

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Over the season, he accumulated only 66 points, with his top performance being a sixth-place finish at the Catalan GP, during which he was aboard the 2023-spec Aprilia.

In the 2024 season, Fernandez ended the last three rounds without scoring any points, leaving him feeling devastated following the Solidarity GP.

Lacking any 2025-spec RS-GPs available for the post-race test, Fernandez concentrated on addressing a significant shortfall in the electronics department and believes he has achieved a significant improvement for the upcoming season.

"He stated, 'In essence, the '25 specification wasn't included in the package.'"

"Thus, our attention was primarily on the 2023 and 2024 models of the bike to grasp various aspects. From my perspective, the 2024 version showed some improvements, prompting us to begin adjustments and experiments with the bike's features."

Throughout the day, we dedicated considerable effort to the electronic components. This aspect had been my greatest challenge for the past two years, but by the conclusion, I experienced a noticeable change in the bike's performance.

"I sensed that I could better leverage my personal style through the use of electronics. That stands out as one of today's highlights."

"Indeed, going forward, we'll encounter issues with the electronic components once more. However, currently, there's an arrangement in place that ensures virtually every track has a foundational setup from which to begin operations."

"Indeed, it was an exceptionally significant day, particularly because we had two or three distinct individuals in the box. Observing how they fit into my group was quite interesting."

"I'm pleased with the outcome. Overall, it was a truly uplifting day. Following Sunday's race, I was completely exhausted."

"I merely wanted to be in my bed, resembling a child who cries every night."

"We've made significant advancements in the electronic components, which has led to noticeable improvements. Looking forward, I believe we'll achieve even more progress, especially with Fabiano's involvement."

Fernandez mentions that the advancements he achieved in the electronics of the Aprilia during the test session enabled him to "modify how I ride" as he now has a better grasp of this component of the motorcycle.

When questioned whether the problems stemmed from his own lack of understanding or originated from his team, he responded, "It's a split. Honestly, I'm unsure."

"I can confidently say that I have the ability to adapt my approach to align with electronics, thanks to my understanding of them."

"Thus, it's split evenly. Now that I've compiled everything, I've found a single direction to proceed."

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Miguel Oliveira: Yamaha's Significant Commitment to the Pramac Initiative

"There is a noticeable commitment from [Yamaha] to ensure all bikes have the same equipment."

Should Miguel Oliveira have questioned Yamaha's commitment to the new satellite Pramac collaboration, those uncertainties would have been dispelled as numerous factory engineers gathered around him during the Barcelona MotoGP Test.

After two seasons with only their factory team, Yamaha will have four motorcycles competing on the grid next year.

In a groundbreaking development for MotoGP, satellite bikes will now match the full factory specifications of those ridden by Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins in the Monster team.

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According to Oliveira, this is the sole method to get back on track.

Oliveira mentioned that Yamaha is making significant strides to ensure that all their bikes have equal materials for the first time ever, and he believes this is the right direction to take.

"If you aim to keep pace with your rivals, this is the sole approach."

Since starting his MotoGP journey with Tech3 in 2019, Oliveira has competed for Red Bull KTM, RNF, and Trackhouse Aprilia.

His initial encounter with collaborating and engaging with a Japanese manufacturer took place during the Barcelona test.

Oliveira mentioned that although it's certainly distinct, it's appreciated because it requires you to communicate very clearly, and then they confirm with you to ensure that your words align with your true intentions.

"This is beneficial since, besides the data, the only other thing they need to handle is our feedback."

A major development is that Oliveira and his teammate Jack Miller can now participate in private MotoGP tests because of Yamaha's D concession status.

"I'm prepared to start practicing on the track and evaluating different aspects," Oliveira mentioned regarding the expanded 2025 racing calendar. "I was fully aware of what I was committing to, and it's a joy for us to offer this contribution and make progress in this manner."

This additional testing provides the opportunity to participate in next year's Sepang Shakedown test, which takes place before the Official test in early February.

For two decades, Peter has been present in the racing paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is currently a key figure in covering the story of Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's ongoing injury problems.

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Fermin Aldeguer expressed amazement, saying, "Everything is unbelievable," regarding the ride height device from the initial lap. He stated, "Achieving the top rookie spot is our goal, yet we must remain composed and progress gradually."

In his first appearance in the premier class at the Barcelona test, 2025 MotoGP newcomer Fermin Aldeguer encountered several adjustments, one of which was learning to use the ride-height device on his Gresini Ducati.

Dropping the back end when coming out of certain slow turns is a distinctive aspect of top-tier racing technology.

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"From the very first lap, I began utilizing it because my thought was, 'I need to make this automatic,'” Aldeguer shared.

The initial attempt was wild because there were moments when I managed to lower it, but I failed to disengage it [by not braking sufficiently]. Thus, I found myself navigating the third turn with the bike [still lowered]!

"I utilized it throughout the entire race, and ultimately, I crossed the finish line with a strong result."

Aldeguer, despite his strong performance towards the close of the 2023 Moto2 season with only three victories, emerged as the quickest newcomer, securing the 20th position and trailing behind his new colleague, Alex Marquez, by 1.761 seconds during the test.

"The goal is to become the top rookie, but it's important to remain composed and proceed gradually," stated the young rider, who has taken over the spot previously held by Marc Marquez at the Gresini team's garage, managed by Frankie Carchedi.

Besides adjusting to the ride height mechanism, Aldeguer also had to get accustomed to Michelin tires and carbon brakes over the course of his 58 laps on the championship-winning GP24.

"Today was excellent as I felt amazing on the bike right from the first lap," he expressed.

"Everything about it is astounding – from the quickness to the velocity. However, what stands out the most is the braking capability. It's remarkable; you're able to decelerate very close to a stop and yet bring the bike to a halt. Grasping this during the initial laps posed a challenge."

"The tires significantly vary [compared to Pirelli in Moto2], though pinpointing the precise differences is challenging due to the bike's distinct features as well.

"Michelin's tires feature an asymmetrical design, allowing for enhanced performance when leaning on the left. However, there's a chance they were slightly too cool, leading to a loss of control at the front [resulting in a crash]. Thus, additional laps are necessary for full comprehension."

"I need to focus more on improving my technique on the bike. I believe it's too early to consider the adjustments at this point; we'll evaluate the situation in Sepang."

"However, the team at Ducati and my own crew were pleased."

Similar to other rookies such as Somkiat Chantra and Ai Ogura, Aldeguer recognizes the importance of dedicating time to physical training during the winter season.

"I'm content with my physical shape, experiencing slight arm pump and dealing with my hand surgery, but definitely, there's preparation needed for an extended race," he mentioned.

The three newcomers are qualified to participate in the Sepang shakedown test, commencing on January 31, before the official test begins.

For two decades, Peter has been a constant presence in the racing circuit, witnessing the rise and departure of Valentino Rossi. He's also leading the coverage on Suzuki's withdrawal from the sport as well as Marc Marquez's struggles with injuries.

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"When Marc Marquez expressed his enjoyment of the motorcycle, it was a huge weight off my shoulders!"

"Witnessing the outcome of efforts that started several months prior brought about an unparalleled feeling of joy."

Marc Marquez's satisfaction with the 2025 Ducati brought reassurance to the company's top executives.

The move to incorporate Marquez into Ducati's factory team for the upcoming season ultimately led to the departure of Jorge Martin, Enea Bastianini, and Marco Bezzecchi, with the Pramac satellite team also parting ways.

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This implies that Ducati's gamble on Marquez for the upcoming year carries significant risk.

"Mauro Grassilli, Ducati's sporting director, conveyed to Marca during the post-season MotoGP test that, despite not being a technician, the aim was to understand his initial impressions."

Upon stepping into the garage, his initial remark was, "I'm fond of the motorcycle". This statement brought me a sense of comfort…

Right from the start, our focus was on integrating him into the team. During discussions with his representative, we aimed to reach consensus on various aspects, including sponsorship deals.

"Witnessing the outcome of efforts that started several months earlier was a truly special feeling. Observing him on the track and having him in the pit with us evoked a profound sense of joy."

Marquez's debut in red marked the beginning of his adventure with Pecco Bagnaia, the leading rider for the official Ducati team.

Armed with identical top-tier MotoGP bikes, Bagnaia and Marquez are both setting their sights on clinching the championship in the coming year.

It places additional focus on how Ducati handles their aspirations.

However, the initial day shared by Bagnaia and Marquez within the same team space went smoothly without any issues.

"Grassilli observed them engaging in conversation, noting how they exchanged emotions and discovered a mutual sentiment towards the bicycle."

"Both individuals are experts in their field, and it might seem odd to acknowledge this known fact, but it's our desire to have both athletes work collaboratively to enhance the motorcycle's performance and promote the team's success."

"Observing their conversation on the initial day, an event not to be assumed, and witnessing their exchange and collective clarity, aligning thoughts on the bike, marked the initial acknowledgment of the efforts we are beginning to undertake."

"When the team's key figures, namely the riders, share a common goal that we're aiming for, I am confident that while it may not always be straightforward, the upcoming year will indeed be a pleasant journey."

For ten years, James covered a wide range of sports, including American sports, football, and Formula 1, as a sports reporter for Sky Sports.

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Michele Pirro: Ducati GP25 and GP24 "Remarkably Similar"

"Pirro believes making significant progress from the GP23 to GP24 is challenging."

In a statement that's sure to uplift the Ducati MotoGP satellite teams, Michele Pirro, the factory test rider, mentioned that the GP24 and the newly introduced GP25 models are nearly identical in terms of their performance levels.

However, he also cautioned that Ducati is set to enhance the latest prototype before the upcoming official trial, scheduled to take place in Sepang, Malaysia this coming February.

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Alex Marquez propelled the GP24 to the pinnacle of the timesheets at the Barcelona MotoGP Test, marking his first outing with the bike during the post-race test session.

Ducati team racers Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez secured the third and fourth quickest times on the prototype GP25.

Pirro, filling in as a substitute rider for VR46 at the season's final race weekend, took to the track on a GP23 to test the new motorcycle through several laps.

"Pirro mentioned that it was quite intriguing to transition to using bike number 23-25 without trying out bike 24 first. Nevertheless, he noted that the GP25 represents a notable advancement over the 2023 model."

"The difference between 25 and 24 is minimal. It's akin to making a slight advancement in one aspect, only to find ourselves losing time in another."

"I am optimistic that during these two months, we can enhance [the 25] slightly and progress further in the Sepang test."

"However, I believe making a significant improvement, especially from 23 to 24, is challenging. It's an intriguing and worthwhile challenge, yet it's far from easy!"

Since joining Ducati as a test rider in 2013, Pirro has witnessed the team's journey from its struggles to clinching the MotoGP championship for the last three years.

"Pirro expressed his delight over Ducati's championship victories in the past three years. However, he acknowledged the challenges of enhancing performance at such a high level, particularly this year's standard."

"It's complicated. However, we'll find out in time. Maintaining a winning streak is crucial. Next year, there will be two fewer riders [on Ducatis] than the current year, yet the factory team boasts two champions. Additionally, Fabio di Giannantonio will be racing with bike number 25."

"I'm looking forward to the Ducatis maintaining their high performance into next year."

Due to undergoing shoulder surgery, di Giannantonio will have to postpone his first appearance in GP25, now scheduled for February at the Sepang circuit.

Currently, due to Ducati's A concession status, Pirro is not permitted to participate in any wild-card events until a concession reassessment occurs, anticipated by mid-2025.

For two decades, Peter has witnessed the ebb and flow of the paddock, including Valentino Rossi's rise and departure. He's also leading the coverage on Suzuki's withdrawal and Marc Marquez's battle with injuries.

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