Insight: The Significance Behind Honda's Updated MotoGP Appearance for 2025

Honda is unveiling a revamped visual identity for the 2025 MotoGP season, a move that signifies a much-needed reboot for the renowned Japanese motorcycle manufacturer in the competitive MotoGP scene.

Heading into the 2025 MotoGP season, Honda has reason for optimism as their situation is unlikely to deteriorate further.

In the past half-decade, there's been a significant decline in performance, with three seasons without a victory since 2020 (last season included), the departure of its longtime main sponsor Repsol, and the loss of the era's top rider, Marc Marquez, to Ducati.

Honda's decline has been thoroughly recorded. The company's struggle with problematic RC213Vs was concealed by Marquez, a six-time MotoGP champion, until 2020 when an injury forced him to miss the entire season, revealing the issues. This led Honda to rethink its design strategy, unfortunately leading to further setbacks. Marquez, having endured much to return to fitness, found himself parting ways with HRC at the conclusion of 2023, as his efforts were not reciprocated by the company.

Consequently, there were low expectations for the 2024 season. However, the outcome was much more disastrous than anticipated.

Honda once again took a misguided approach to its development strategy at the beginning of 2024, resulting in a repeated cycle of backtracking to establish a correct path. Despite some indications of progress in the later parts of the season, highlighted by Johann Zarco securing the brand's top finish of eighth place in Thailand (during a rain-affected grand prix), the year-end statistics presented a bleak picture.

For the fourth consecutive year, Honda ended up at the bottom of the constructors' championship, accumulating only 75 points – a significant drop of 110 points from their 2023 score, where they unexpectedly won with Alex Rins at COTA. Throughout the last season, HRC never succeeded in earning ten or more points in any of the races.

The top performer for the team in the rankings was Johann Zarco, who secured the 17th spot with 55 points. The team's official pair, Joan Mir and Luca Marini, unfortunately found themselves at the bottom of the leaderboard among all season-long competitors, amassing a total of 35 points together. Selected to fill in for Marquez from a limited selection of candidates, Marini failed to earn any points until the German Grand Prix, which was nine races into the season, and that too came about due to a penalty imposed on another rider ahead of him.

Given Mir's scoring rate of 1.05 points per round and Marini's 0.7, Repsol's choice to conclude a collaboration that has been solid since 1995 is understandably excusable.

As 2025 approaches, Honda finds itself at its lowest point.

Challenging periods necessitate resilient spirits. It's evident that Honda has come to terms with the reality that its current strategies are falling short. A significant factor contributing to the lag of Japan's MotoGP teams behind their European counterparts is a difference in cultural approaches to development and problem-solving. European teams tend to be more direct and willing to learn from mistakes through a process of trial and error. In contrast, Japanese manufacturers adopt a more systematic approach, insisting that a development must be proven effective before it is implemented on the racetrack.

Naturally, the most effective method to verify the success of a development is by putting it through competition. Yamaha managed to do this in 2024, thanks to the recruitment of Max Bartolini, a seasoned engineer from Ducati, as their technical director. Following Yamaha's strategy, Honda has also brought on board a renowned European engineer to lead its development efforts in 2025.

Honda had considered bringing on board ex-KTM figure Fabiano Sterlacchini, but in the end, chose to appoint Romano Albesiano, the technical director from Aprilia. Albesiano, hailing from Italy, successfully transformed the RS-GP from being the subject of paddock ridicule to a competitive motorcycle, compelling enough to attract the current world champion, Jorge Martin, for the current racing season.

Albesiano's challenge at Honda mirrors his previous experience at Aprilia in 2015, though he now has access to the significantly more powerful resources of the esteemed Honda Racing Corporation. Despite recent struggles, Honda boasts an impressive history, securing six championships in a span of seven years with Marquez from 2013 to 2019, clinching the title in 2011 with Casey Stoner, triumphing over Valentino Rossi and Yamaha in 2006 with Nicky Hayden, and dominating the early years of the modern era with Rossi in 2002 and 2003.

Honda clearly hasn't lost its winning touch. Therefore, the assertive rhetoric shared during Honda's 2025 unveiling ceremony, introducing their fresh livery design and Castrol as the title sponsor, comes as no surprise.

"Luca Marini attributes the optimistic outlook to the influx of fresh engineering talent joining the project, including Romano and other highly skilled engineers on the team," he explains to Crash.net regarding his confidence in Honda's progress by 2025.

"I believe this represents a significant transformation that Honda has never experienced before. Consequently, we are witnessing the beginning of shifts in our approach. I mentioned it last year, and now, more than ever, I can observe the evolution during this winter. Clearly, Romano only began his involvement with this initiative in January, so it's going to require a period to truly sense his influence and contribution to this new endeavor. However, merely exchanging insights and the feedback from other brands, particularly the operational strategies currently employed by Italian companies, is going to revolutionize everything. We need a bit of patience, but there's an overwhelming sense of optimism and enthusiasm among everyone involved."

Colleague Joan Mir concurred, stating, "I've had discussions with [crew chief] Santi [Hernandez] regarding the recent enhancements we're getting. It appears he's very hopeful. Consequently, this brings me joy and also makes me hopeful.

"I'm not anticipating a return to the forefront, but we're open to experimentation: we have a variety of engines and chassis to test out. If these elements can provide the improvements we've long sought, I'll be satisfied."

Albesiano didn't play a role in shaping the 2025 motorcycle that's already been tested at the Sepang track before the season starts. He'll require time to thoroughly examine every aspect and craft something that reflects his vision. However, certain allowances will aid him in this endeavor.

Marini is optimistic that by the latter half of the year, Honda will have made considerable progress. Although the intense competition presents a challenge, Honda possesses all the necessary resources to achieve this.

This also encompasses what appears to be a distinct version of Joan Mir

Since moving to Honda in 2023 after Suzuki unexpectedly exited MotoGP, the 2020 world champion has faced challenges. In his initial season with the RC213V, marred by injuries, Mir managed to accumulate 26 points, with his peak performance being a fifth-place finish at the Indian GP. This achievement was primarily attributed to the advantage the Honda gained from a stiffer rear tyre carcass.

In 2024, it seemed as though Mir was more often found navigating through gravel pits than riding his RC213V. Throughout the season, he encountered 17 crashes and failed to finish in 10 of the 20 grand prix events. His highest achievement for the year was securing an 11th place finish at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

Throughout various points in his career with Honda, Mir has considered leaving MotoGP. However, the worry of not succeeding has prevented him from taking that step, leading to his recent commitment to a fresh two-year contract with HRC starting in 2025.

Following the test in Barcelona, Mir expressed frustration over what he perceived as Honda's failure to provide new components, frequently vocalizing his opinions more than other riders from the same team. While his feelings are justified, as a MotoGP champion, there's an anticipation that he would act as a figurehead for the brand, making the most out of the equipment at his disposal, similar to Fabio Quartararo's approach at Yamaha.

In response to Crash's inquiry about what steps he must take to enhance his leadership qualities by 2025 and improve his performance irrespective of how his bike measures up to his expectations, Mir provided an impressively straightforward response.

"Indeed, it's challenging. Transitioning from a history of strong performances and consistently being considered a key competitor in the world championship to a position where you're overlooked is a reality I've had to confront," he explained.

"Embracing the reality is essential. Initially, it was a tougher challenge for me to come to terms with it. However, given our current circumstances, I understand the actions we need to take to turn things around. No one should doubt my belief in our mission, given that I'm still present and putting in as much effort as I am capable of."

"One strategy that significantly aids me while I'm at home is pushing myself to the limit in my training, striving to achieve peak physical condition, and doing my utmost to eliminate any thoughts of not having done enough. This approach serves as my form of therapy. Despite everything, I'm eagerly anticipating getting started. I'm determined to turn things around, to get going, to grasp what we'll be exploring in the tests, and to learn from the fresh perspectives the new arrivals at Honda will offer. Beyond that, I'm curious about how Honda will respond following all our efforts."

Before the season has even started, Honda has already claimed a victory of sorts: its new livery is undeniably the standout. Yet, this is merely the outward sign of a brand taking strides forward. The uninspiring last Repsol design seemed like the team was clinging to former triumphs, with Marquez's shadow still lingering around it – a sentiment that was reflected in their performance on the racetrack.

The tangible signs of this fresh phase are beginning to emerge. With Albesiano leading the technical overhaul, there's a growing sense of optimism among the two main riders who are in dire need of a morale boost. The expansion of the test team, now including Aleix Espargaro, is set to fast-track improvements that the team's racers have been eagerly awaiting. Additionally, Takaaki Nakagami taking on a new role in testing will help enhance the dialogue between the team's European and Japanese divisions.

It may seem unlikely that Honda could aim for top finishes towards the season's end in the same manner as its competitor Yamaha, considering their current trajectories. However, there's real optimism within HRC that brighter days are ahead after a period of significant struggles.

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VR46 clarifies situation amid Pedro Acosta speculation

Uccio Salucci addresses speculations about a possible connection between Acosta and VR46

Uccio Salucci has addressed speculation regarding Pedro Acosta being considered for the VR46 MotoGP team, stating, 'I never had a serious conversation about it within our team'.

In a significant move, Acosta, who made a remarkable debut last year, has inked a long-term agreement to remain with KTM as a factory rider starting from the 2025 season, maintaining his relationship with the Austrian brand that has supported him throughout his Grand Prix journey.

Nonetheless, KTM's ongoing economic troubles and the ambiguous prospects of its MotoGP involvement have sparked rumors that Acosta is seeking an exit strategy for 2026.

Recently, there's been buzzing speculation about a possible switch to the VR46 team on a satellite Ducati for Acosta. This speculation gained more traction after Acosta participated in Valentino Rossi's 100Km of Champions race in Tavullia, which took place earlier this month.

VR46 team leader Salucci has stepped in to dispel these speculations, emphasizing that there hasn't been any significant conversation about it.

"To begin with, I apologize for the narrative concerning KTM, as we maintain a strong rapport with KTM," he stated.

"Our partnership began in 2014 in the Moto3 category, alongside Stefan Pierer, Pit Beirer, and the entire KTM board and leadership team."

"I'm not a fan of this narrative, but sadly, that's how it is."

"Additionally, it's worth mentioning that Acosta is an exceptional cyclist."

"Perhaps he's currently the top talent in MotoGP. However, it's premature to discuss this matter, and frankly, I've never had a serious conversation about Acosta within our team."

In the past few weeks, Acosta has openly stated that the current circumstances with KTM do not impact his short-term career plans in MotoGP.

KTM is facing a financial turmoil, which has forced it to enter a phase of self-administration and undergo a restructuring effort to rescue the firm.

The latest news from Austria reveals that 23 prospective financiers have shown interest in backing the company.

On February 25, a vital gathering is scheduled where lenders will decide on the proposed reorganization strategy that entails receiving 30% repayment of the funds KTM owes them.

Though this is the legal minimum required, it's reported that certain creditors are dissatisfied with this amount.

KTM's current financial obligations have been verified at €2.2 billion.

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New allegations suggest Marc Marquez turned down a sponsorship from Monster

The eight-time world champion reportedly declined a partnership offer with Monster

It is reported that Monster Energy proposed a personal sponsorship agreement to Marc Marquez, a Factory Ducati MotoGP racer, matching the one extended to Francesco Bagnaia. However, Marquez turned down the offer.

The athlete, who has clinched the grand prix world championship eight times, has had a longstanding association with Red Bull, the Austrian energy drink powerhouse, prominently featured on his racing helmet until the conclusion of the previous season.

By joining the factory Ducati team, Marquez terminated his individual agreement with Red Bull as a gesture of respect towards the brand.

The team from Ducati receives sponsorship from Monster Energy, which is clearly visible on their motorcycles, the riders' suits, and the team's apparel.

In 2025, Marquez will wear all these items, but his racing helmet won't display the Monster logo.

As reported by Motorsport.com, Marquez received a proposal from Monster that was the same as the one given to his teammate Bagnaia, but he chose not to accept it.

This action was taken once more as a gesture of respect towards Red Bull, keeping the possibility of rekindling this alliance in the future.

According to Motorsport.com, Ducati anticipated Red Bull would reach out to them regarding 2025, but the conversation happened later than expected.

Marquez has replaced the Red Bull emblems on his helmet with Estrella Galicia decals.

Fascinatingly, as reported by El Periodico, Lenovo, the main sponsor for Ducati, conducted a research last year indicating that signing Marquez instead of Jorge Martin would be more beneficial for the brand because of his international reputation.

Naturally, this didn't significantly influence Ducati's final decision.

Marquez's decision to openly reject the offer of a factory Ducati bike from the Pramac team for the 2025 season ultimately caused the brand to reverse its original plan of advancing Martin.

In the same article by El Periodico, it features a statement from Carlo Merlini, Gresini's director of commercial and marketing, in which he remarks, "One thing is certain, and we witnessed it directly last year.

"Marc provides more than mere success and triumphs. He ensures you gain recognition."

"Marc stands out for his unparalleled visibility and allure. His magnetic charm paves the way for securing sponsorships and media attention."

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Charges of lacking leadership at Honda amid grim forecasts

"Honda seems to be not taking concrete actions…"

The recent episode of the Crash MotoGP podcast delved into Honda's performance in 2025.

Honda has named Romano Albesiano as their new technical director, with Aleix Espargaro and Takaaki Nakagami serving as their test riders.

Luca Marini and Joan Mir, who both faced significant challenges in 2024, will once again team up at the factory, with LCR welcoming Johann Zarco and newcomer Somkiat Chantra to their ranks.

However, the issues with the manufacturer exist on a more significant scale, according to our specialists.

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"Lewis Duncan mentioned on our podcast that Honda appears to be missing a central leadership figure, similar to the role Max Bartolini plays at Yamaha."

They possess a tenacious advocate in Alberto Puig who stands up for the rider and the circumstances, yet lack an individual capable of bringing the riders together.

"Joan Mir is constantly unhappy. What prompted him to ink a fresh deal? His rationale is that he didn't wish to conclude things on such a term. Yet, if he finds no joy in it and maintains a pessimistic attitude throughout…

Honda lacks a definitive leader. Johann Zarco might assume that position, as he was more articulate than their other riders, showed greater calmness, and was undeniably more successful in competitions.

Determining Honda's future direction and assessing Romano Albesiano's potential influence is challenging. He inherits a foundational setup that isn't his creation, necessitating a period of adjustment to rework it.

"Honda doesn't appear to be making significant progress this year. While there were minor indications of improvement towards last year's end, they seemed to benefit only Zarco."

"In my opinion, achieving consistent point finishes for Honda would signify success. However, reaching Yamaha's potential level could prove to be challenging."

Honda discussed critical improvement areas

Peter McLaren mentioned, "To what extent will Albesiano and Aleix impact the motorcycle's development?

Attracting talent is one aspect; Honda has indeed recruited numerous engineers and collaborates with Kalex, yet this move hasn't significantly altered the bike's success.

Honda's initial focus should be on avoiding regression, similar to the setbacks experienced in the previous year. Misguided testing strategies severely impacted the early part of their last season.

"If they are able, to at the very least, resume from the point they stopped…"

"Veteran cyclists Zarco and Marini are expected to provide additional support due to their extensive biking experience."

"Marc Marquez was queried about the distinctions between being a factory rider for Ducati and Honda."

"He mentioned 'communication'. Gigi Dall'Igna is the one who connects everything at Ducati."

"Honda must focus on improving in these specific domains."

The key factor is the base they establish following their trials. Aleix has undergone testing this year, having participated in several sessions the previous year.

"After the races in Buriram and Sepang, we'll understand the magnitude of progress. Is a significant advancement on the horizon?"

"Perhaps by examining the bike and suggesting 'implement it in this manner', Albesiano could potentially help them shave off a few tenths of a second per lap. It’s within the realm of possibility."

Achieving the highest Honda position at 12th in the championship standings would be considered a positive outcome. Last year, Zarco finished in 17th place.

"In MotoGP, it's possible to witness singular, unexpected outcomes, as demonstrated by Alex Rins's performance at COTA."

"However, they must realistically adopt a gradual approach. Yet, the initial move should involve not regressing…"

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Valentino Rossi showcases a large contusion alongside an inspiring message as racing gets back underway

Valentino Rossi embodies the spirit of Steve McQueen

Four years after hanging up his MotoGP helmet, Valentino Rossi finds himself more engaged than ever.

The current lineup of MotoGP racers won't hit the track until the upcoming Sepang test next weekend and their first race isn't scheduled until February 28. Meanwhile, The Doctor is gearing up for his next competition.

Rossi has detailed the numerous activities he engaged in during the off-season, leading up to the commencement of this weekend's racing season.

Check out this Instagram post from Valentino Rossi (@valeyellow46)

This encompasses a large contusion on the inner part of his leg, which he had previously not shown.

Rossi also showed photos to his partner Francesca and pictures of himself performing as a DJ at an event.

He shared insights into his personal family dynamics and his current career pursuits, including his participation in the 100km of Champions race in Tavullia earlier this month, where he secured second place with Luca Marini.

Crucially, Rossi and his companion Francesca celebrated the arrival of their second child, Gabriella, in the winter season.

He is now prepared to return to racing.

Discover more: A closer look at Valentino Rossi's pursuit of his much-anticipated tenth global championship

"Rossi shared on social media, quoting Steve McQueen, albeit humorously inverted, 'Racing is everything; everything else is just passing time.' Perhaps an overstatement, but undeniably impactful."

"Here's a recount of my experiences starting from the final 2024 race in Jeddah up until the day before today."

"Indeed, this weekend marks the beginning of the 2025 season in Australia with the 12-hour Bathurst event taking place on the thrilling Mount Panorama circuit."

At the age of 45, Rossi is set to participate in the Bathurst 12 Hours, marking the beginning of his racing season in cars.

Competing for Team WRT behind the wheel of a BMW, Rossi is set to participate in his third endurance race in Australia. His highest finish to date occurred last year when he secured fifth place.

This season, Rossi is focusing on competing in the LMGT3 category of the World Endurance Championship, where he will be part of BMW's official team.

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Radiant Jack Miller presents his unique Yamaha

Jack Miller reveals his latest acquisition in Australia

Jack Miller has unveiled his latest Yamaha model.

However, the bike he's set to mount for the 2025 season isn't the MotoGP model.

Rather, it's a motocross motorcycle embellished with the flag of Australia.

Check out this Instagram post shared by Jack Miller (@jackmilleraus)

The Yamaha 250cc four-stroke, enhanced with advanced technology accessories, showcases the 'Thriller Motorsport' branding along with the 'CAT' sponsor logo.

Miller is well-known for incorporating motocross training in Australia as part of his MotoGP preparation, and he now possesses a motorcycle that complements his professional racing activities.

Miller is set to transition to the newly-formed Pramac Yamaha team for this season, leaving KTM behind.

Pramac has transitioned from a partnership with Ducati to now aligning with Yamaha, enhancing the capabilities of the Japanese bike maker.

Miller is set to collaborate with Miguel Oliveira, which implies that Pramac's lineup boasts riders with knowledge of riding the Ducati, KTM, Aprilia, and Honda motorcycles.

However, it has been cautioned to Miller that he may need to adjust more than Oliveira.

"From my perspective, Miguel’s approach to riding is well-matched with the M1. On the other hand, Jack will need to make some adjustments to his approach," stated Massimo Meregalli of Yamaha.

However, Pramac offers a new chance for the seasoned Miller following a challenging two-year stint with KTM.

He is set to participate starting this Friday during the preliminary trials.

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Who are the participants in today's 2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown trial?

Complete rundown of competitors taking part in the Shakedown trial

The holiday recess concludes this Friday, marking the commencement of the 2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown test.

A significant three-day event in Malaysia takes place from Friday, January 31, to Sunday, February 2.

Not all MotoGP competitors will participate in the initial shakedown trial. Instead, they are scheduled to reconvene for the official Sepang trials happening from February 5th to 7th.

Who are the MotoGP participants in the Sepang Shakedown test?

The Sepang Shakedown test mainly involves the test riders from each team, tasked with putting the motorcycles through their paces after a period of dormancy.

Their job is to resolve problems with the 2025 equipment, prior to the motorcycles being distributed to the racing athletes.

Nonetheless, the regulations on concessions will permit Honda and Yamaha to have additional personnel present at the Shakedown.

Honda and Yamaha have been granted the authority to utilize their unrestricted testing days, thereby employing their complete roster of racing riders.

Fabio Quartararo, Jack Miller, Luca Marini, and their colleagues will participate in the Shakedown event accordingly.

Newcomers are permitted to participate in the Shakedown as well.

In the 2025 MotoGP season, three newcomers will make their debut during the Shakedown event, including Ai Ogura racing for Trackhouse, Fermin Aldeguer with Gresini, and Somkiat Chantra joining the LCR Honda team.

Complete roster of participants for the 2025 Sepang Shakedown test featuring Ducati.

Michele Pirro (development rider)

Fermin Aldeguer (Gresini Team)

KTM

Dani Pedrosa (development rider)

Pol Espargaro (development rider)

Aprilia

Lorenzo Savadori (development rider)

Ai Ogura (Trackhouse)

Yamaha Corporation

Fabio Quartararo (official team member)

Alex Rins (official team rider)

Jack Miller (Pramac Racing)

Miguel Oliveira (Pramac Team)

Andrea Dovizioso (development rider)

Augusto Fernandez (development rider)

Honda Motor Company

Luca Marini (official team rider)

Joan Mir (official team rider)

Johann Zarco (LCR Team)

Somkiat Chantra (Team LCR)

Aleix Espargaro (trial rider)

Takaaki Nakagami (trial rider)

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Yamaha recruits Andrea Dovizioso for Shakedown trial, sparking speculation about V4

Is the V4 making its debut in Sepang?

Andrea Dovizioso is set to return to the MotoGP circuit, participating in the Sepang Shakedown test happening this week.

Yamaha has enlisted him to join their team as a test rider.

Under the regulations regarding concessions, Yamaha and Honda have the permission to include their four competing riders alongside their test riders during the Shakedown.

The remaining three factories are only allowing their test riders and novice racers to use the facilities, pending the official Sepang test scheduled for next week.

Dovizioso's return to riding a Yamaha followed his stint as a test rider for their M1 during the latter part of the previous season, stepping in for the injured Cal Crutchlow.

Fascinatingly, his involvement in the Shakedown raises speculation on whether Yamaha could introduce their V4 engine.

Yamaha continues to utilize a four-cylinder inline engine, though they have acknowledged the development of a V4 engine, aligning with the approach of their competitors.

The Shakedown trial is not broadcast and is conducted in private, potentially giving Yamaha the chance to discreetly evaluate the new engine.

Yamaha team racer Alex Rins had earlier expressed their intention to conduct trials of the V4, featuring Dovizioso as the rider, in December.

However, Rins mentioned that the strategy was unsuccessful due to the engine not being prepared.

This weekend's trial run will see Dovizioso teaming up with test pilot Augusto Fernandez, official racers Rins and Fabio Quartararo, along with Pramac's duo, Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira, as the manufacturer eyes another opportunity to evaluate the V4.

Yamaha anticipates that their debut with a V4 engine in racing competitions will not happen before the second half of 2025, at the soonest.

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Marc Marquez: On Technology – "Ultimately, the final choice rests with you."

Francesco Bagnaia believes, "It's a 70% human effort and 30% technological contribution."

The latest unveiling of the Ducati MotoGP team, featuring racers Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, showcased artificial intelligence technology, thanks to the main sponsor, Lenovo.

Ducati's current supremacy in MotoGP is also credited to its advanced application of technology, specifically in the areas of data analytics and simulation programs.

Marquez's shift from having no wins in his last two seasons with Repsol Honda to securing three victories on a previous year's Gresini Ducati last year highlighted the crucial role of equipment.

The riders concurred that the combination of personal expertise and technological proficiency is what renders MotoGP fascinating, yet they emphasize that it is ultimately the human element that 'tips the scales'.

"Technology plays a crucial role, undoubtedly. It's a significant aid for people. However, ultimately, it's humans who make the decisions," stated the six-time MotoGP champion, Marquez.

"The Ducati Lenovo team boasts exceptionally advanced technology, and their bikes are equipped with similarly high-tech features. However, it's crucial to remember that at the core, it's the human riders who bring it all

"Thus, it provides significant assistance, yet the final choice remains entirely up to you."

Two-time champion and current second-place holder Bagnaia stated, “I believe it's 70% down to human effort and 30% due to technology.

"Indeed, the necessity for technology is undeniable, and in this regard, Lenovo plays a significant role by contributing greatly to technological advancements, particularly in enhancing data capabilities."

"However, the individuals responsible for securing the outcomes and earning the points are the dedicated humans and engineers tirelessly working throughout the race weekend."

"As riders, we dedicate ourselves daily to excelling in our sport, aiming to secure our achievements on the racecourse."

"Therefore, it's a supplementary role and I believe humans remain a crucial component of it, which is the primary and most intriguing aspect of our profession."

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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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2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown Test: Your Guide to Today's Event

Everything you need to know about today's 2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown Test

Here's your guide to keeping up with the 2025 Sepang Shakedown test from January 31 to February 2. Below, you'll find the schedule for the start times of the Sepang Shakedown test.

The fresh season kicks off with the Shakedown event in Sepang, Malaysia.

Each manufacturing plant will dispatch racers to the circuit for a three-day period to carry out initial trials of their latest motorcycles.

During the Shakedown, only test riders and newcomers from Ducati, Aprilia, and KTM are permitted to participate.

However, because of the regulations regarding concessions, both Honda and Yamaha are also permitted to include their MotoGP competitors in the competition.

This indicates that Aleix Espargaro, Honda's recent addition as a test rider, will team up with Luca Marini, Joan Mir, and the pair from LCR.

Yamaha's official duo, Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins, will team up with Pramac's racers, alongside test pilots Augusto Fernandez and Andrea Dovizioso.

Tracking the 2025 MotoGP Sepang Shakedown test from any location

The Sepang Shakedown test won't be broadcasted. There's no available live stream to catch the events as they happen.

However, there's no need for concern, as Crash.net will supply all the necessary updates and details you require.

We will be stationed at the Sepang paddock, providing you with real-time updates for each lap, along with live timing for every lap.

We'll keep you informed on the newest technology advancements and feature conversations with the riders.

Stay updated on MotoGP X by following the Crash.net account for photos, lap times, and rider opinions.

2025 Sepang Shakedown test kickoff schedule

Friday, January 31 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time / 2 a.m. to 10 a.m. UK

Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time / 2 a.m. to 10 a

Sunday, February, from 10 am to 6 pm local time / 2 am to 10 am UK time

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

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Ducati unveils updated fairing at Sepang MotoGP Shakedown trial

Michele Pirro has been testing the Ducati Desmosedici GP25 equipped with a newly designed fairing at the Sepang circuit.

Ducati seems to have introduced a new fairing during the MotoGP Shakedown test at Sepang this weekend.

Michele Pirro has been the sole rider representing the Italian manufacturer on the track in Malaysia this weekend, testing their newest machinery. Meanwhile, rookie Fermin Aldeguer has participated in the test as well, but he is using the previous year's GP24 model, which he will be riding in the 2025 season.

This weekend at Sepang, Pirro has been testing various motorcycles, some of which featured a carbon fairing that had not been painted.

A picture shared on MotoGP's social media accounts on Friday, January 31, following the first day of the Shakedown, features Pirro riding one of these bikes without any branding.

Examining the front of the fairing, it's evident that changes have been made to the lower part of the front wing compared to the previous season. The outer portion now appears to be slimmer and features a more pronounced curve.

The image shared by the official MotoGP social media platforms, because of the angle at which it was captured, partially conceals a significant portion of the motorcycle's side fairing, leaving it in the shadows.

Adjusting the white balance and brightness of the picture uncovers more details in the shaded region.

Initially, it seems that the sidepod wings have been modified, although the precise details are unclear because of the angle at which the photograph was captured. The lower section of the wing seems to have been raised compared to earlier versions of Ducati’s MotoGP fairing. Furthermore, the left sidepod wing seems to have a curved exterior instead of a flat one.

Although these modifications might offer their own aerodynamic benefits, the clearest reason for them is found just beneath the lower edge of the sidepod wing, where a significantly taller downwash duct is now positioned.

The duct's design seems to resemble the one Ducati brought out during the Misano test last year. This updated fairing was used by both Jorge Martin and Enea Bastianini for the rest of the 2024 season, though Francesco Bagnaia did not adopt it. Nevertheless, the duct now looks broader and significantly higher.

The picture reveals that the top section of the duct is now nearly aligned with the top of the mudguard, right at the point where it connects with the fork leg. This is a contrast to last season when the highest part of the duct used by Bastianini and Martin was positioned considerably lower, as depicted in the subsequent photo.

Located behind the duct is the raised ground effect section that made its debut last year. The image doesn't provide enough detail to confidently determine any changes made to that part of the fairing for 2025, if changes were made at all.

When observing the rear section of the motorcycle, although the photograph doesn't offer a clear perspective, there seems to be another set of 'stegosaurus' wings made of carbon black. These are located, from a visual standpoint, just behind Pirro's arm. They look akin to the wings attached to the bike's tail, but they are evidently placed further forward and linked by a connector between the two parts.

From an ergonomic perspective, these should be placed behind the seat to avoid limiting the rider's movement. However, the exact location is unclear from the photo.

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

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TNT Sports announces 2025 MotoGP commentary crew

Team of six set for Thailand MotoGP coverage confirmed

TNT Sports has announced its broadcast crew for the 2025 MotoGP season.

Host Suzi Perry has posted a picture of the team set to report on the Thailand MotoGP season opener.

Enjoyed spending the winter season in a state of dormancy. Preparations for the #Motogp @motogpontnt are moving forward, with travel plans, gatherings, brainstorming, and more all sorted. Plus, we're all set to kick things off in Thailand ♥️ Truly surrounded by the best people 😆 pic.twitter.com/xXV4VAQyx5— Suzi Perry (@suziperry) January 29, 2025

Perry, the seasoned television host, will once more be the focal point of TNT Sports' broadcasts.

Gavin Emmett is set to offer analysis during MotoGP events and engage in interviews with riders, contributing to the channel's comprehensive coverage.

Former racers Michael Laverty, Neil Hodgson, and Sylvain Guintoli offer insightful viewpoints and will take on dual roles as analysts and commentators.

Natalie Quirk is a journalist stationed within the racing circuit, often the first to interview leading cyclists following a race.

Steve Day is set to resume his role as a commentator in 2025 as well.

TNT Sports has unveiled modifications for the upcoming season that will affect both the World Superbike Championship and the British Superbike Championship.

The network known for airing WSBK and BSB, Eurosport, is set to cease operations.

Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), the parent organization of both networks, has announced that it will integrate it into TNT Sports.

This implies that MotoGP, World Superbike Championship, and British Superbike Championship will all now be available under one roof.

The alteration will take place starting February 28, 2025.

The MotoGP championship kicks off in Thailand from February 28 to March 2.

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

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