Departing Aprilia MotoGP racer points out major problem with the bike

Miguel Oliveira discusses the shortcomings of the RS-GP

Miguel Oliveira indicates that the Aprilia MotoGP bike performs exceptionally well within a specific range, but points out that if you deviate slightly from that range, it becomes challenging to handle.

The departing Trackhouse racer switched from KTM to Aprilia at the conclusion of the 2022 season and performed impressively on the previous year's RS-GP model during the 2023 races.

Despite dealing with injuries throughout the year, Oliveira achieved three top-five finishes in 2023 and then transitioned to the 2024 model of the Aprilia for the previous season.

During the 2024 season, although Maverick Vinales piloted his bike to victory at a grand prix in Austin, Miguel Oliveira did not secure a top-five finish on any Sunday. His best performance was a sixth-place finish in Germany, following a second-place result in the sprint race the day before.

Before moving to Pramac Yamaha, Oliveira reflected on his experience with Aprilia. He noted, "I was evaluating my career with Aprilia and transitioned from a 2022 model to a 2024 model."

"I tested the 2023 model, and the performance of the bike was truly impressive—simply outstanding."

"It was definitely challenging and complex. However, once everything falls into place, the bike performs exceptionally well."

"However, if you're slightly off, it appears challenging. It seems tough to stand out."

"It's no longer my responsibility to figure out the bike. I've provided my input, and that's where my role ends. We'll pass it on to someone else now."

Vinales publicly stated that his only request for the 2024 motorcycle was to have the 2023 model with an increase in downforce.

Following a promising beginning to the year, Aprilia found itself struggling in the latter half, ultimately falling to third place in the constructors' rankings, overtaken by KTM.

Reflecting on his time with Aprilia, Oliveira commented, "From a technical standpoint, I've evolved as a rider."

"I have a different style of riding now compared to how I rode two years back."

"I believe this will be beneficial for me, primarily because I can adjust, which is the key aspect."

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Yamaha justifies Alex Rins' challenging MotoGP season, stating: 'He was never in a position to exert full effort.' The Spaniard's initial year on the M1 proved to be tough.

Yamaha has stated that Alex Rins "wasn't able to perform at his best" during his debut MotoGP season riding the M1 in 2024, although they acknowledge "his potential and what he can achieve."

In 2024, Rins switched to his third different manufacturer in three consecutive seasons, choosing to leave Honda and join Yamaha.

After demonstrating success with the inline-four Suzuki from 2017 to 2022 and being Honda's sole race victor in 2023, Rins was anticipated to perform well on the Yamaha this year.

However, a series of injuries, such as a fractured wrist sustained during the Dutch TT, worked against Rins and resulted in only two top 10 finishes for him in 2024.

Concluding the year with 31 points, which is 82 points less than his teammate Fabio Quartararo, Rins achieved his top performance in Malaysia, securing an eighth-place finish.

Yamaha's team leader, Massimo Meregalli, stood by Rins despite his lackluster performance this season. Meregalli remains confident in the Spanish rider's abilities. The Japanese company has shown its support by offering him a new contract for two more years.

"He showed up at a time when he definitely wasn't at full strength," Meregalli explained to MotoGP's official website, alluding to the severe leg injury he endured in 2023.

"He experienced both successes and setbacks, including an incident in Assen where he sustained a wrist fracture."

"In my opinion, he has never been in a state where he could truly give his all, even though he consistently made the effort."

"Over the past two races, which marked the season's conclusion, he began to close the gap. This development is crucial for us, as we are fully aware of his potential."

"However, facing the challenge of being by oneself while competing against others who have more team members on the track poses a significant handicap."

"When Alex is performing well, we have a minimum of two riders available to assess the data."

"This will be crucial for me in the coming year as we expand to four riders, which will offer us significant advantages."

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Editorial: MotoGP Could Benefit from Welcoming F1 Icon Lewis Hamilton if KTM Investment Materializes

Lewis Duncan of Crash.net suggests that MotoGP should be enthusiastic about the possibility of seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton investing in KTM.

The past month has been quite challenging for MotoGP. KTM is facing increasingly severe financial difficulties, and the European Union's investigation into Liberty Media's acquisition due to concerns about a broadcasting rights monopoly has been postponed, possibly until May. These developments have cast doubt on what was once seen as a promising future for the series.

Both MotoGP and Liberty remain optimistic that the sale will eventually receive approval, though the issue with KTM is significant.

The Austrian company, facing declining sales after a surge in production, is reportedly over €3 billion in debt. During a creditors' meeting in Austria held before Christmas, it was revealed that the company owes €1.8 billion to banks. In an attempt to avoid bankruptcy, KTM has opted for self-administration.

Following the first meeting with creditors, the firm has received permission to keep running as it currently does. However, a segment of the report revealed that there are intentions to withdraw from MotoGP, along with Moto2 and Moto3.

The term "planned" can be quite ambiguous. Just as many people have 'plans' to start rigorous workout routines when the new year rolls around, it doesn't always mean those 'plans' will come to fruition. Similarly, while KTM might eventually need to leave MotoGP, this won't occur in 2025. In fact, the company firmly declared in a statement released before Christmas that it will definitely be participating in the races next year.

In an announcement shared with the media after the creditors' meeting, KTM stated, "We have reached a significant day with the approval of our restructuring process. This achievement ensures our strategy for the future, and we are pleased to affirm that motorsport continues to be a key element of this plan."

KTM remains dedicated to the world of motorsports. To reaffirm our position for the year 2025, we announce that our participation in MotoGP will persist. The positive developments today have invigorated us, and we extend our gratitude for your ongoing support.

At the end of the year, KTM conducted a private test session at Jerez in early January, amidst media speculation that the company might halt its development for the 2025 season due to financial challenges. As the 2025 season approaches, this potential pause might not be as severe as it seems, assuming the rumors are accurate. However, KTM has not yet verified these claims.

Engine development for all manufacturers except those given special allowances will be halted from the beginning of the 2025 season. This measure aims to control expenses as companies work on their 2027 models with 850cc engines. Although there will still be areas of development available for motorcycles, most manufacturers, excluding the Japanese brands, are unlikely to allocate the same level of resources to their existing models. If KTM gets off to a strong start with its 2025 RC16 – and testing in the latter part of 2024 indicates an improved motorcycle – then it shouldn't face significant disadvantages. It's also possible that 2025 budgets had been finalized even before KTM's financial challenges became more severe.

Certainly, it seems challenging for KTM to join the 2027 lineup with an entirely new motorcycle given its present circumstances.

During the creditors' meeting, it was disclosed that multiple entities have shown interest in investing in the company, collectively offering up to €700 million. Additionally, Pit Beirer, the head of motorsport at KTM, shared some fascinating insights regarding this matter.

Beirer mentioned to Speedweek that they engaged in quite engaging talks with the team representing Lewis Hamilton, the renowned seven-time Formula 1 world champion.

It's well-known that Lewis Hamilton has a keen interest in MotoGP and is considering the idea of having his own team. Discussions on this matter are reportedly taking place.

Hamilton has a deep passion for motorcycles. As an avid MotoGP enthusiast, he had the opportunity to exchange rides with Valentino Rossi at the close of 2019, experiencing the thrill of riding a Yamaha M1 for the first time. Earlier in the same year, Hamilton participated in a Yamaha track day event on an R1. During both occasions, he not only showcased his impressive riding skills but also stood out for his attitude and approach.

Significantly, Hamilton has proven to be a savvy entrepreneur. While cementing his status as a motorsport icon and becoming one of the rare figures in the racing world to achieve mainstream recognition, Hamilton has also broadened his business ventures.

This includes his involvement in sports, as he became a part-owner of the Denver Broncos NFL team in 2022. Additionally, he has ownership of a team in the Extreme E series.

At the beginning of the year, speculation surfaced suggesting that Hamilton was interested in purchasing the Gresini team in MotoGP. These rumors ultimately did not materialize into any action. However, Hamilton did show a desire to participate in MotoGP, an interest that was heightened by Liberty's planned, yet currently paused, acquisition of the series.

During an investors' call this past summer, Greg Maffei, the outgoing CEO of Liberty, mentioned that as soon as they made the announcement, individuals began contacting them expressing interest in purchasing a team. Among those interested was Lewis Hamilton.

"Why? It's because they observed the developments in Formula 1 and wish to emulate them. Several major distributors reached out expressing their desire to participate, but I had to inform them that we cannot discuss details until we receive approval from the EU. We are eager to engage in discussions once that approval is granted."

Liberty has expressed its intention to expand the presence of MotoGP in the United States. Since taking control from Bernie Ecclestone's CVC Capital in 2017, Liberty has notably succeeded in increasing Formula 1's popularity in the US. The country now hosts three F1 races, TV viewership has improved, and a significant Hollywood movie featuring Brad Pitt is scheduled to premiere next year.

MotoGP aspires to achieve the level of success that Formula 1 has experienced under Liberty's management.

Many believe that bringing Hamilton on board as a major investor in KTM could be a crucial move for MotoGP. Should Liberty's acquisition receive regulatory approval, this strategy might help MotoGP make a significant breakthrough into the mainstream, similar to the success F1 has achieved.

At the beginning of the 2024 season, Hamilton was the driver with the largest social media following. He has more than 38 million followers. Following him is Charles Leclerc from Ferrari, who is set to join Hamilton as a teammate, with 17.4 million followers. In the realm of MotoGP, the 2024 world champion, Jorge Martin, has 1.1 million followers, while Marc Marquez tops the MotoGP social media list with 7.3 million followers. Valentino Rossi still holds the title for the most substantial MotoGP presence on Instagram, boasting 16.2 million followers.

Hamilton has built a respectable fan base in the United States, considering the norms of motorsport, where he resides for a portion of the year.

Before joining Ferrari, it has been reported that Hamilton is set to collaborate with the energy drink brand Celsius, marking the conclusion of his extensive partnership with Monster Energy. Meanwhile, KTM is prominently backed by Red Bull as the main sponsor for both of its MotoGP teams. Although this resolves one potential conflict, Beirer highlighted that there is a distinction between investing and sponsoring, suggesting that energy drink companies will not necessarily impede a possible investment by Hamilton.

If Lewis Hamilton decides to collaborate with KTM, MotoGP could greatly gain from much-needed efforts to increase diversity within the sport. Hamilton has been an active proponent of transformation, having established the Hamilton Commission in 2020 to create more opportunities for black individuals in the engineering sector.

One motivation behind his decision to become a part-owner of the Broncos was to advocate for increased black ownership in the NFL, which was only 12.5% when he made his investment.

In 2020, when Hamilton spearheaded efforts to promote diversity in Formula 1, MotoGP remained quiet. In the years that followed, although MotoGP never actively deterred participation, it also did not make significant strides toward fostering inclusivity.

Following the establishment of the Hamilton Commission, Mission 44 was launched as a charitable organization. Its goal is to support individuals from underrepresented communities by providing them with more inclusive educational experiences and enhancing their career prospects.

MotoGP demonstrates its capacity to connect with global events, as evidenced by its efforts to aid flood relief in Valencia. Hamilton serves as the prominent leader who can guide it towards a positive path.

The outcome of KTM's circumstances will ultimately benefit MotoGP, regardless of what unfolds. Following Suzuki's departure at the conclusion of 2022, the racing series is in no position to risk losing another manufacturer. Additionally, many individuals' jobs are reliant on KTM's participation in grand prix racing events.

However, should the remedy somehow turn out to be Hamilton's investment, his participation could significantly elevate MotoGP in ways that might surpass even what Liberty Media could achieve.

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Max Verstappen delivers strong caution regarding Red Bull's F1 championship aspirations

The Dutch driver cautions Red Bull concerning their present performance level

Max Verstappen cautioned his Red Bull Formula 1 team, stating that if their difficulties persist into 2024, he won't secure the championship title next year.

After achieving dominance during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, Verstappen and Red Bull appeared poised to replicate their success this year, having secured victory in seven of the opening 10 races.

Between his victory at the Spanish Grand Prix in June and his eighth win of the season in Brazil in November, Verstappen made only four appearances on the podium.

A decline in performance of Red Bull's RB20 allowed McLaren's Lando Norris to intensify the competition against Verstappen in the middle of the championship season.

Although Verstappen's impressive beginning to the 2024 season paved the way for him to secure a fourth Formula 1 championship, he has cautioned his team that achieving the same outcome next year will be unattainable.

"If things stay the same, I won't win the championship next year," he mentioned to the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf.

"It's straightforward. We must take action to be competitive in the upcoming season. Everyone is aware of this necessity."

"I believe in the team's ability to address the balance problems we experienced last season. There are specific adjustments we couldn't make previously that will be implemented for the upcoming season."

"We understand that we must improve our performance on the kerbs, handle bumps more effectively, and enhance our speed in slow corners."

"Typically, those are our vulnerabilities. If we lose after that, it will be due to sheer speed."

"I constantly maintain a high level of pressure, including on myself. I make an effort not to underestimate situations. At one stage, the car became nearly impossible to drive. There was nothing more that could be extracted from it."

At the Singapore Grand Prix, which has historically been a challenging event for Verstappen, Red Bull's performance improved significantly.

Max Verstappen secured a second-place finish in Singapore, placed third in Texas, and claimed victory at both the Sao Paulo and Qatar Grand Prix events.

He disclosed that Red Bull took his suggestions into account during the car's development process, leading the team to cancel the upgrades they had intended to implement after the Italian Grand Prix.

Verstappen mentioned that any future plans for new components, scheduled to be introduced after the Monza race, might end up being discarded.

"Following that point, the team began anew, as they were unable to pinpoint the precise issue before."

"While reviewing the data, I noticed some graphics that illustrated changes in aerodynamics. These changes affected the way we approached and navigated corners, as well as the heights at which the vehicle traveled."

"The car was not the same as the one from the previous year. I pointed out, 'Look, it's obvious that these specific issues are the problem, right?' I found out later that my assessment was accurate."

"I hadn't come across those visuals and patterns previously. I remarked that it was evident what needed our attention, as the engineers are clearly aware of the modifications made to the car from the previous year."

"At the start of the previous season, we were still securing victories with ease, but I sensed that the car's balance wasn't quite to my liking."

"At that time, we maintained a significant advantage over the other teams, who perhaps didn't experience a successful winter season."

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Marc Marquez unveils significant insight about Jorge Lorenzo in MotoGP

A new DAZN documentary focusing on Ducati discloses a fascinating detail

In a recent Ducati documentary, Marc Marquez disclosed that he advised Honda to bring Jorge Lorenzo on board in an effort to prevent the Italian manufacturer from triumphing over them in MotoGP.

Lorenzo, who has won the MotoGP world championship three times, surprised many by switching to the factory Ducati team at the close of 2016, after dedicating his career to Yamaha until then.

During that period, Ducati was in the process of regaining its leading position and had only recently begun to secure victories again in 2016, just as Lorenzo signed on for the next season.

In his debut year with Ducati, Lorenzo managed to secure just three podium finishes, while his teammate Andrea Dovizioso rose to the challenge and competed against Marquez for the championship title.

In a fresh DAZN documentary called "La vida en rojo," which focuses on Ducati, Marquez, who had already secured three championship titles by 2017, disclosed an interesting detail: "When Lorenzo joined Ducati, I told Honda, 'They have made it.'"

"I suggested that the smartest move would be to bring Lorenzo over to Honda. If this doesn't happen, another competitor from a different team might surpass you, because Lorenzo is a five-time world champion."

Lorenzo had a sluggish beginning to the 2018 season, not managing to break into the top 10 until the fifth race in France. By then, Ducati had already chosen to end their contract with him, despite their significant investment, for the 2019 season.

However, only a few weeks after deciding to swap Lorenzo for Danilo Petrucci, the Spanish rider secured his inaugural victory with Ducati in Italy.

He supported this achievement in the next event in Barcelona and then secured a third win in Austria.

An injury sustained during the Aragon Grand Prix disrupted Lorenzo's momentum, leading to a disappointing end to his season. After his victory in Austria, he managed to earn points just one more time, finishing 12th at the final race in

Honda took Marquez's advice and brought Lorenzo on board for the 2019 season.

However, the decision turned out to be unfortunate for Lorenzo, as he found it challenging to adjust to the RC213V.

Two major accidents during the Barcelona test and practice sessions at Assen, where he sustained a back injury, ultimately influenced his choice to retire from MotoGP at the conclusion of 2019.

Before retiring, Lorenzo did not manage to secure a top 10 position while riding for Honda, a decision he made public during the last race of the 2019 season.

In the middle of the year, Ducati considered the possibility of having Lorenzo return to join Pramac for the 2019 season, but this plan did not materialize.

Marquez will become part of the official Ducati team next year, moving to a Desmosedici for the 2024 season with Gresini. This follows several challenging years riding a Honda, during which the six-time MotoGP world champion secured three grand prix wins.

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Francesco Bagnaia is open to the possibility of facing off against his former championship competitor in the 2025 MotoGP season. The two-time MotoGP world champion is already anticipating the challenges and races that lie ahead in 2025.

Francesco Bagnaia, who has won the MotoGP world championship twice, suggests that he is open to the possibility of competing against Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo for the lead in 2025.

Next season, Bagnaia will continue with the official Ducati team, but unlike previous years since 2022, he will not begin the new series as the reigning champion.

Despite securing victory in 11 grand prix races last season, Bagnaia ultimately fell short by 10 points against Jorge Martin, who is leaving his position with Pramac Ducati.

In the coming year, Bagnaia will encounter his most difficult test to date as he competes with Marc Marquez, who will join him in the factory Ducati team with the same equipment.

During an appearance on Andrea Migno's podcast, a fellow member of the VR46 Academy, Bagnaia mentioned that he expects to have many individual races against Marquez.

Nevertheless, he also identified an unexpected individual he expects might give him trouble.

He expressed that his upcoming objective is to secure three world titles in MotoGP.

"What can we expect in 2025? Ducati is anticipated to be the leading motorcycle, although they will have one fewer factory bike."

"I anticipate numerous races where it will just be me and Marquez competing head-to-head. However, Aprilia has introduced a new pair of riders, Martin and Marco Bezzecchi, while KTM has the talents of Pedro Acosta and Brad Binder to rely on."

"I wouldn't dismiss Quartararo as a contender because Yamaha is making progress."

In the 2022 championship, Bagnaia and Quartararo were the main contenders. Bagnaia managed to erase a 91-point gap midway through the season when Yamaha's performance began to decline.

In 2024, Yamaha experienced its most challenging season in recent history, failing to secure any podium finishes for the first time, marking its second year in a row without a victory.

The team managed to secure only 124 points in the constructors' championship, a decrease from the 196 points it achieved in 2023. However, ongoing improvements to the M1 allowed them to finish the 2024 season on a more positive note, as Quartararo achieved his best result of the year by finishing sixth in Malaysia.

Quartararo was easily the highest-ranked rider from a Japanese manufacturer, finishing in 13th place and 58 points ahead of LCR's Johann Zarco.

Fabio Quartararo will stay with Yamaha through 2026. He has commended the company for its shift in approach toward motorcycle development, highlighting it as the most significant advancement they've achieved this year.

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In the world of endurance racing, few events capture the imagination quite like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. As a sports journalist immersed in this high-octane environment, the task of delivering compelling coverage involves a blend of on-site reporting, live updates, and in-depth analysis. This year, the race promises to be more thrilling than ever, with a lineup of elite drivers and cutting-edge vehicles ready to push the limits of speed and endurance. Our coverage will provide an exclusive glimpse into the race dynamics, featuring driver insights and rennteam details that bring the event to life. Through interviews, technical analysis, and real-time updates, we aim to engage our audience with the pulse of Le Mans, while our collaboration with skilled photographers, graphic designers, and editors ensures a rich tapestry of visual content. As engines roar and tires screech, we invite you to join us on this exhilarating journey, right from the heart of the action.

• 1. "On-Site Reporting: Capturing the Pulse of Le Mans 24 Hours"

1. "On-Site Reporting: Capturing the Pulse of Le Mans 24 Hours"

Immersed in the heart-pounding atmosphere of the Le Mans 24 Hours, on-site reporting becomes a craft of precision and passion. This legendary event, renowned for its grueling endurance tests and exhilarating race dynamics, demands sports journalism at its finest. As engines roar to life, capturing the pulse of Le Mans requires a blend of industry expertise and multimedia skills, ensuring that every detail is relayed with accuracy and flair.

The fast-paced environment of the race track necessitates real-time updates, where breaking news coverage can pivot on a moment's notice. Journalists must employ creative thinking and data analysis to provide live coverage that not only informs but engages the audience. This is where storytelling thrives, weaving together driver insights, race strategy, and rennteam details to form a narrative that resonates with fans worldwide.

The role of on-site reporting goes beyond the roar of engines; it delves into the intricate world of technical analysis. Understanding vehicle technology and race strategies is crucial, offering viewers a glimpse into the innovation showcase that Le Mans embodies. This demands a symbiotic collaboration with camerapersons, photographers, and graphic designers, whose visual content brings the race's essence to life through compelling imagery and audiovisual presentations.

Interviews with drivers, race teams, and officials are pivotal, providing exclusive insights and behind-the-scenes coverage. These conversations enrich the narrative, offering a window into the human element that drives this endurance spectacle. Through these dialogues, journalists can craft background reports that delve into the history and evolution of Le Mans, enhancing audience engagement and community interaction.

In today's digital age, media coverage extends beyond traditional boundaries. Social media updates, crafted with strategic planning and cross-platform promotion, ensure that the excitement of Le Mans reaches a global audience. This requires adept content distribution and marketing strategies that align with the fast-paced nature of the event.

Precision reporting is not just about speed; it’s about delivering content that is both informative and captivating. Through teamwork and deadline management, sports journalists at Le Mans curate a comprehensive coverage experience, from pre-race press conferences to post-race analysis. This collaboration with a professional network, including editors and sponsorship partners, ensures that every aspect of the event is shared with authenticity and depth.

Ultimately, on-site reporting at Le Mans is an art form, a dynamic blend of innovation and tradition. It is here, amidst the tire smoke and adrenaline, that sports journalism thrives, capturing the essence of an iconic race that continues to captivate the world.

As the sun sets on another thrilling edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the race once again reinforces its iconic status in the world of motorsport. Through meticulous on-site reporting and strategic collaboration with a talented team of photographers, editors, and graphic designers, we have captured the pulse of this legendary endurance event, providing comprehensive coverage that spans from driver insights to rennteam details. Our commitment to delivering real-time updates and breaking news coverage has ensured that audience engagement remains at the forefront of our efforts, as we navigated the fast-paced environment with precision reporting and multimedia skills.

From exclusive interviews with the drivers to in-depth technical analysis of race strategies, we have strived to offer a window into the intricate dynamics that define the Le Mans experience. Our use of social media updates and cross-platform promotion has extended our reach, bringing the excitement of the race to a wider community and fostering interaction among fans globally.

As we wrap up our coverage, it's evident that the blend of storytelling and technology has transformed sports journalism, allowing us to not only report on the race but to immerse our audience in its vibrant atmosphere. The 24 Hours of Le Mans continues to be a showcase of innovation and endurance, and our dedication to broadcast journalism and content distribution reflects the enduring allure of this motorsport masterpiece. As we look forward to the next race, we remain committed to providing top-tier insights and behind-the-scenes coverage, ensuring that the spirit of Le Mans is shared with racing enthusiasts around the world.

Ducati's unexpected contender describes the less-than-stellar aspects of his MotoGP experience to date. Di Giannantonio is set to work with his fourth different crew chief over the span of four years by 2025.

Fabio Di Giannantonio, a MotoGP racer for VR46 Ducati, has expressed that having to collaborate with a fourth different crew chief in four years by 2025 is "not fantastic."

In 2022, Di Giannantonio entered the top motorcycle racing category, joining the Gresini team and collaborating with first-year crew chief Donatello Giovanotti.

In 2023, Di Giannantonio teamed up with Frankie Carchedi, a crew chief with world championship experience. This collaboration was crucial for the Italian rider, enabling him to achieve his first grand prix victory.

Explore further: Discover the MotoGP crew chiefs for the 2025 season.

In 2024, Di Giannantonio was given a new opportunity by VR46 and teamed up with David Munoz, who used to be Valentino Rossi's crew chief. Meanwhile, Carchedi stayed with Gresini alongside Marc Marquez.

In 2025, as Di Giannantonio joins the VR46 team to ride a factory Ducati, he will collaborate with Massimo Branchini, who served as Franco Morbidelli's crew chief at Pramac during this year's season.

He mentioned that frequently switching crew chiefs, having gone through more than four in recent years, isn't ideal for a career.

"I've had two crew chiefs in Moto2 and I'll have had four in MotoGP. That means I've gone through six crew chiefs in just five years, which isn't ideal."

"I believe my new team will be fantastic as well, especially since my electronics specialist recently helped Jorge Martin become a world champion."

"Massimo Branchini deserves a great deal of praise from me for his outstanding work in Moto2, and he also did an excellent job in MotoGP with Franky."

"I have always aspired to collaborate with him, and I believe our team will be robust this time around."

"A two-year contract has been signed, which means I'll be collaborating with the same team and staff over that period. This represents a significant advancement in my career, as it allows me to follow a consistent path for two years."

"This is going to be excellent."

According to Di Giannantonio, having the same crew chief over time enhances a rider's ability to grasp the nuances of a bike each year. He points out that this consistency has significantly contributed to Francesco Bagnaia reaching his current level of performance.

He mentioned that it's beneficial to start the new year with the same motorcycle and team, as it allows you to assess your performance from the previous year and see how much progress has been made.

"If you don't, you'll always have to begin from scratch, as you'll be unaware of the purpose behind a change and could overlook important details."

Currently, Pecco is performing exceptionally well, not only due to his remarkable skills as a rider but also because he has consistently worked with the same team and used the same motorcycle for several years.

"Ultimately, having the same bike and setup for several years allows you to focus on fine-tuning details, leading to greater improvements than if you frequently altered many components."

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Max Verstappen "possesses the necessary skills" to equal Michael Schumacher’s Formula 1 record.

Can Max Verstappen reach the milestone set by Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton with seven championship titles?

Jacques Villeneuve, the 1997 Formula 1 world champion, firmly believes that Max Verstappen possesses the necessary skills to equal Michael Schumacher's achievement of securing seven world championships.

In 2024, Verstappen claimed his fourth Formula 1 world championship title, bringing him just three titles away from the records held by Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton.

Even though he didn't have the top-performing car throughout the season, as McLaren made a strong comeback, Verstappen managed to outperform Lando Norris and clinched his fourth championship.

Considering that Verstappen is only 27 years old, he has more than ten years ahead to win three additional championships.

It is unclear if Verstappen will continue in Formula 1 for much longer, as he often criticizes the sport and its current trajectory.

Jacques Villeneuve, the 1997 champion who outperformed Michael Schumacher, believes Max Verstappen possesses the qualities needed to secure a minimum of seven championship titles.

However, the Canadian pointed out that certain situations might prevent Verstappen from achieving that.

He mentioned to Governor Sport that Max Verstappen certainly has the potential to equal Schumacher's number of championships.

Max remains driven and eager to succeed, consistently aiming for victory. He is resilient and doesn’t let setbacks affect him. Given the appropriate circumstances, he is always poised to secure a championship title.

"Just as Alonso had the potential to win seven championships, consider how frequently he came close during his time with Ferrari. Similarly, Schumacher might have ended up with only three championships instead of seven. Yet, it's also possible he could have achieved even more."

"Occasionally, the race is tight, and some of the drivers lack the necessary skills."

number of titles they likely earned due to their skill level.

"Max has secured victory in all the championships available to him. He hasn't failed to win a single one yet."

As Formula 1's rules stay consistent through the winter, Verstappen is expected to face an even tougher task to defend his championship title.

McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes are optimistic about challenging Verstappen and Red Bull. Meanwhile, every team is also looking ahead to 2026, when new technical rules will be implemented.

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Martin Brundle describes the 2021 Abu Dhabi event as "the most difficult experience" he has faced as a commentator. He reflected on the challenges of that year, stating, "The most difficult period I've encountered throughout my years of commentary was the Abu Dhabi event in 2021, and the year 2021 overall…"

Martin Brundle described the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as his "most difficult experience" as an F1 commentator due to the controversy involving Mercedes and Red Bull.

The conclusion of the 2021 Formula 1 season was marked by controversy when Max Verstappen secured his inaugural world championship title.

Lewis Hamilton was set to win his historic eighth championship in Abu Dhabi, but a Safety Car was introduced during the final laps.

In an attempt to start the race before the finish line and determine the championship on the track, race director Michael Masi permitted a few cars to unlap themselves, but not all, which went against the rules.

The conclusion of the season marked the end of a year filled with intense clashes between Verstappen and Hamilton, frequently highlighted in the media.

During a recent appearance on the Sky F1 podcast, Brundle admitted that they found themselves "caught in the crossfire" amid the ongoing tensions between Mercedes and Red Bull.

"We find ourselves in a protected space, yet we end up trapped in the conflict," he remarked. "The most distressing experience I've had in my years of commentary was during the 2021 Abu Dhabi event, and throughout 2021 overall, due to the intense and hostile rivalry between Mercedes and Red Bull, which inadvertently placed Sky in a difficult position."

"We ended up trapped in the middle of the conflict. Essentially, each side believed that if you weren't supporting them, you were opposing them. Both sides saw it that way, which made the entire period quite awkward."

"However, our bonds endured, and each of us continued forward."

Brundle has shared his experiences and interactions with teams alongside David Croft throughout the years.

"On Sunday morning, Crofty and I attend some briefings to gather any last-minute information," he clarified.

"Teams are generally quite transparent at that stage. While they won't reveal their race strategies, they do share a significant amount of information."

"We spent the entire weekend reading. On Fridays, I hit the track, which helps me gather a wealth of information. I engage in constant conversations with others. I have a few key contacts in the paddock with whom I regularly exchange insights."

"If something significant is happening, I'll reach out to Zak, Christian, or Toto for a conversation. They won’t deceive me; if they can't share details, they'll be upfront about it or provide some information. I'd estimate that 60 to 70 percent of the insights I gain can't be disclosed on television, but that leaves me with 30 percent that I can share. This knowledge also helps steer me and my Sky F1 team in the right direction, ensuring we aren't pursuing incorrect leads."

"It's likely excessive, around 60 or 70 percent, but you learn a great deal, and individuals share things with you in strict confidence. If you break that trust, you won't receive further information in the future."

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Morbidelli expresses the immense "honor" and "challenge" associated with competing for Valentino Rossi's VR46 MotoGP squad, noting that being part of the team "raises expectations significantly."

Franco Morbidelli acknowledges an increased level of pressure as he takes over Valentino Rossi's MotoGP spot in 2025, yet he expresses immense pride in the opportunity.

At 29 years old, he stands out as a prominent figure in the VR46 Academy, marking significant milestones as the academy's initial world champion in Moto2 during 2017 and achieving its first MotoGP race win at the San Marino GP in 2020.

Before joining VR46 Ducati for the 2025 season, Morbidelli had not previously competed under MotoGP star Rossi's squad.

The Italian rider marked his first appearance with the squad on the GP24 during the 2024 season campaign with Pramac, participating in the post-season test in Barcelona, where he finished seventh following 52 laps.

Familiar with the team dynamics, Morbidelli noted post-test that they must leverage the unique synergy among them to come together effectively.

Competing under Rossi's banner carries a distinctive kind of stress for an Italian racer, yet Morbidelli is welcoming this challenge.

"He expressed that it brings him immense pride and also adds an additional layer of pressure."

"Being a part of Valentino Rossi's squad raises expectations significantly, in my view, and we aim to fulfill those aspirations moving forward."

"I maintain steadiness, as the bicycle remains consistent. The individuals in my surroundings shift, yet I am familiar with them too. So, it's a transformation, albeit not a significant one."

In 2024, Morbidelli's transition to Ducati, racing for Pramac, marked his comeback as a regular contender for the top 10, following a challenging two-year stint with Yamaha's factory team.

He secured a spot on the podium during the San Marino GP sprint but faced challenges keeping pace with the other GP24 competitors throughout the season.

Reflecting on 2024, he shared, "I'll look back on the progress we achieved at each session, every weekend, every moment we realized there was something beyond what we had in the prior grand prix.

"This year has been a wonderful journey to witness and live through."

"We've climbed to the peak of our group. There's just one final step to go, but we've made significant progress."

Morbidelli's preparations for the season were impacted by a head injury he sustained during a training mishap in Portimao.

He was absent for the entire duration of winter testing, and later in the year, he confessed to experiencing a two-week period of amnesia following the accident.

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Pursuing Shadows: Video Analysis in MotoGP

"Identifying the precise points of advantage or disadvantage, measuring the distance gained or lost, is the ultimate goal for every racer and their lead engineer."

In the most recent edition of the official MotoGP publication, GPMag, Peter Bom, a data acquisition expert and ex-crew chief for Moto3 and Moto2 world champions, delves into the clandestine realm of videometry.

The individual from the Netherlands describes how teams have historically utilized TV broadcasts accessible to the public to improve their performance. This practice has advanced to the point where images are layered or a 'ghost mode' is used to depict two cyclists on the same part of the track simultaneously.

Bom notes that within the MotoGP paddock, the implementation of the 'ghost' feature is referred to as 'videometry'.

Every team now has dedicated videographers who capture footage from key locations around the track.

The focus is on highlighting the distinction between their cyclists and those from rival teams, especially emphasizing the speed of riders using different bike brands.

Leveraging advanced software, two video feeds are accurately aligned. This allows riders and their support teams to pinpoint the specific differences in their rider's performance at certain sections of a turn (during braking, the middle of the turn, and upon acceleration) when compared to, for instance, the quickest rider on the circuit.

"Every rider and chief engineer dreams of precisely identifying the discrepancies and quantifying the distance in terms of meters lost or gained."

Bom subsequently unveils that integrating video footage with the squad's telemetry information aids in optimizing motorcycle configurations. Meanwhile, ex-Grand Prix competitor, World Supersport titleholder, and victor in WorldSBK races, Chaz Davies, shares his utilization of videometry in his role as a rider mentor for Ducati.

However, the most astonishing revelation comes when Bom demonstrates the ability to obtain telemetry information for a competing vehicle solely through the use of video and audio recordings aired by Dorna.

"Bom notes that experts are able to transform these in-vehicle recordings into data, which can then be examined using the existing software that teams and manufacturers currently employ for their data analysis."

"The technician who provided me with this backstage insight mentioned that it wouldn't shock him if some of the existing MotoGP producers were currently engaging in this video-to-data translation."

To demonstrate its effectiveness, Bom presents telemetry data on gear selection, RPM, velocity, braking, and throttle position, all derived from video of Francesco Bagnaia's leading lap at Assen!

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For two decades, Peter has been a fixture in the paddock, witnessing the rise and departure of Valentino Rossi. He's leading the coverage on Suzuki's withdrawal and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with his injuries.

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