Carchedi on Marquez Joining Ducati Lenovo: “I Have Clear Expectations” – Exclusive

“I prefer not to divulge too much, yet I have precise expectations”

Frankie Carchedi, the Gresini team's chief, may not be accompanying Marc Marquez to the official Ducati team in 2025. However, the Brit has suggested he anticipates significant achievements from the #93 rider.

Marquez clinched the official Ducati spot, surpassing eventual world champion Jorge Martin, as he was the sole GP23 rider who could compete with the factory-spec GP24s the previous year.

This achievement encompasses three grand prix victories, one sprint race win, and a pair of pole positions, culminating in a third-place finish in the world championship.

However, in 2025, the Spaniard is set to go up against the tough challenge of Ducati’s two-time world champion, Francesco Bagnaia, as his team-mate.

In a recent episode of the Crash.net MotoGP podcast, the host inquired about Carchedi's anticipations regarding Marquez's performance with the factory team.

"Carchedi grinned, "Sure, we'll catch up when the year wraps up!"

"I hesitate to give away too much, but my predictions are quite clear: Entering his second season with [the Ducati], essentially benefiting from a two-year advancement in equipment… The man secured 20 podium finishes [in 2024], so I'll just leave it at that!"

In contrast, the other three GP23 competitors collectively secured only two podium finishes in the previous season, with Marco Bezzecchi and Alex Marquez each taking one.

The disparity in performance between the GP24s used by the Lenovo and Pramac squads and the previous model GP23s operated by Gresini and VR46 was a major point of discussion during the past season. This issue was inevitably brought up to Carchedi during the podcast.

Chuckling, the Brit said, "I was wondering 'what questions will you all have?' And I was sure this one would be asked!" He's also the mentor who led Joan Mir to victory in the MotoGP championship with Suzuki in 2020.

"I've gained plenty of experience in responding to this, and I'll essentially echo my earlier comments: For us, the benchmark was the other GP23s, aiming to outperform them.

"Marc set himself apart while competing with other Honda riders, distinguishing his performance from that of the Yamahas, Ducatis, or any other brands [at that time]. This trend continued into the current year.

"Ending the year ahead of both Enea Bastianini and Franco Morbidelli, who are GP24s, was truly remarkable."

"The team of engineers at Ducati is truly excelling. Just when it seems they've reached the peak of innovation, they manage to enhance their motorcycles even more with each passing year."

"Every bicycle comes with its own set of pros and cons. There were a few specific aspects that posed challenges for us in the competition."

"Definitely in a single lap – though it could be largely due to familiarity [with the Ducati]. It's uncertain. The conversation is about a competitor [Marquez] who's just mounted the bike for the first time, compared to those who've spent four or five years mastering it.

"Reflecting on it, I believe we secured our spot with relative ease. Across the season, we managed to secure the top starting position twice, and surprisingly, we ended up in third place in the [BMW Award] 'qualifying championship'. This was unexpected, as it didn't seem that way to me!"

Motegi nearly secured a pole position by himself before his lap was invalidated.

"Variations exist between the 23 and 24 models. The Ducati team's engineers are so skilled that they consistently achieve progress. Each year brings its unique changes. On occasion, the improvement is modest, around one to two tenths, and other times, it's significantly more. It really depends on the year when it comes to the disparity between the factory and satellite models."

"In conclusion, it seems Alex might be the ideal person to consult. I believe he really enjoyed the GP24 bike in Barcelona!"

During the Barcelona post-race test in November, as Marc and Bagnaia embarked on testing the GP25 prototype, Alex, Marc's brother and ex-teammate, recorded the quickest time on his first outing with the GP24.

Carchedi was also queried about his opinions on the potential impact of the newcomer Martin at Aprilia.

"Becoming a world champion doesn't come without effort," he mentioned. "Having a leading rider switch to another brand is beneficial for MotoGP, as it's something we all desire.

"While it's great for us at Ducati at the moment, it's important for the excitement of the sport that all teams have strong competition and top-tier riders. So, it's not just about [Martin], but having Enea at KTM also adds a great dynamic to the championship, which should shake things up a bit."

"I'm confident he'll be in the vicinity or close by."

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Max Bartolini: "The person who can utilize the rear grip effectively will achieve higher speeds" – Exclusive

"One always focuses on optimizing the performance of the best tires"

Yamaha's technical director for the Monster team, Max Bartolini, has explained that the secret to achieving victory in MotoGP currently lies in optimizing the performance of the rear tyre.

In any motorsport where the front and rear tires are of different specifications or sizes, one end, either the front or rear, will invariably exhibit superior grip.

During the period from 2009 to 2015, when Bridgestone supplied the tyres, the front tyres were considered the most robust. Yet, this preference shifted significantly towards the rear tyres with Michelin's introduction in 2016.

Bartolini clarified that, contrary to what one might assume about MotoGP engineers concentrating on improving the performance of the less effective tyre to enhance lap and race times, it's actually more crucial to leverage the capabilities of the stronger tyre.

"Typically, between the front and rear tires, you focus on the one that's in better condition," the Italian, who became a part of Yamaha's team from Ducati twelve months prior, shared with Crash.net.

For Bridgestone, the front tire showcased the most robust performance. The rear tire maintained a steady level throughout the race, with no significant decrease in performance.

"Reflecting back to 2016, the initial phase of our partnership with Michelin stands out. While the rear tires provided robust performance, the front ones posed significant handling challenges. This led to numerous falls during the initial testing phase."

"Michelin has significantly improved the front, making it far superior to how it was initially."

"However, the back end remains highly robust, which is why there is a lot of discussion among riders regarding the traction at the rear."

"Anyone capable of fully utilizing the rear grip can achieve greater speed."

Bartolini swiftly debunked the misconception that 'rear grip' is only significant when accelerating.

"He mentioned that every turn involves phases of slowing down, entering, maintaining speed through the curve, and then speeding up again."

Navigating entry and maintaining momentum through a turn presents more challenges than speeding up.

"If you fail to achieve both entry and corner speed, you will not be able to accelerate effectively."

Enhancing the efficiency of the rear tire is a key motivator for Yamaha's decision to work on a V4 engine initiative while continuing with its traditional Inline4 engine, especially given their lack of a top-three finish throughout 2024.

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EXCLUSIVE – Joan Mir: Pedro Acosta's victory in MotoGP is "just a matter of time"

"He possesses the skills and the talent needed to achieve it. Therefore, it's only a question of time."

After securing a podium finish in just his second MotoGP race and then taking the lead towards a second-place finish in Austin, Pedro Acosta has been widely predicted to succeed Marc Marquez as the youngest winner in the top category of motorcycle racing.

Acosta, having completed his first season with GASGAS Tech3, had until the German Grand Prix in July to surpass Marquez's 2013 record of achieving a MotoGP victory at 20 years and 63 days old.

However, it did not occur either prior to or following the Sachsenring event.

Several of Acosta's promising opportunities for victory were lost because of various incidents and accidents. Despite this, he stood out as the sole KTM rider to achieve multiple podium finishes last year, securing a spot on the podium five times on Sundays.

Despite his efforts, he ultimately missed securing fifth place and the top non-Ducati position to his future KTM teammate, Brad Binder, during the final race in Barcelona.

Joan Mir, who won the MotoGP championship in 2020, commended Acosta for his performance this season and emphasized that a win is inevitable for him.

Mir expressed to Crash.net that Pedro is performing excellently.

"It's quite challenging to perform well on every race track, but Pedro demonstrated impressive speed across all of them, which is remarkable."

"It's likely that the Ducatis have a significant performance advantage, which certainly did not assist him in securing his initial win."

"However, it will come eventually… He's gaining a lot of knowledge and has impressive speed."

"I'm not shocked that he didn't come out on top, but if he had, it wouldn't have surprised me either since he possesses the skill and ability to achieve it."

"It's just a question of when."

During his second season in the premier class, Mir secured his inaugural MotoGP victory on his journey to winning the world championship.

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Former Grand Prix Team Proprietor Passes Away at 87

Bob MacLean's Red Bull WCM squad triumphed in five 500cc Grand Prix races.

Bob MacLean, the owner of an independent racing team that secured five 500GP victories under the Red Bull Yamaha WCM name, has passed away at 87.

In 1992, MacLean established the WCM team as an independent entity, bringing on Peter Clifford to serve as the team manager.

WCM transitioned from using ROC chassis coupled with Yamaha engines, securing an arrangement in 1997 for factory-grade YZR500s. Alongside, they inked a major sponsorship agreement with Red Bull.

In 1998, Simon Crafar secured the team's inaugural win at Donington Park, which was succeeded by Regis Laconi achieving another victory in Valencia in 1999.

2000 marked the peak season for WCM, with the 'slide king' Garry McCoy clinching three wins and securing fifth place in the world championship.

In 2001, McCoy secured three additional top-three finishes, surpassing his teammate Noriyuki Haga in points even though he was sidelined for several races because of injuries.

The beginning of the 2002 four-stroke era found McCoy and his new teammate, John Hopkins, sticking with two-stroke engines because of a scarce availability of Yamaha's newly introduced M1 engines.

At the season's conclusion, Red Bull transitioned to KTM, whereas WCM embarked on developing a proprietary four-stroke prototype, utilizing a modified R1 engine and a frame constructed by Harris.

Disagreements involving MotoGP and WorldSBK created obstacles for the project, and an ensuing initiative to develop a V6 engine motorcycle with Blata's support failed to come to fruition, leading to the team's absence from the 2006 world championship.

A declaration released by Road Racing World stated:

Robert John MacLean, affectionately known as Bob, a beloved husband, father, and teacher, died serenely in his Wilson, Wyoming residence on December 14, 2024, at 87 years old. His life began on February 18, 1937, in Coronado, California, born to parents Robert John MacLean and Mary Witty MacLean. Throughout his life, Bob was profoundly dedicated to the realms of education, athletics, and serving his community.

"…Having spent numerous years as a motorcycle racer, Bob established World Championship Motorsports in 1991, where he served as co-owner and operator until 2005. WCM took part in the premier class of global motorsports, competing in the FIM Grand Prix Motorcycle series. His venture into entrepreneurship, alongside his dedication to education and sports, showcased his exceptional leadership abilities."

Bob played a significant role in his community, notably his participation on the South Kent School Board from 1990 to 1999, where he also held the position of President from 1995 to 1999. His leadership and benevolence were instrumental in molding the school's destiny. Additionally, Bob was a dedicated board member of the Teton County Sheriff’s Auxiliary for more than twenty years and was involved with the New York Board of the Shakespeare Globe.

In the serene setting of Wilson, Wyoming, Bob discovered tranquility and satisfaction through his passion for fly fishing and moments spent on his ranch. He actively supported community initiatives, making donations to entities like the Jackson Hole Land Trust and the National Museum of Wildlife Art, showcasing his profound respect for the area's stunning landscape.

First and foremost, the most important part of Bob's life was his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Mary Anna (Marna) MacLean, to whom he was married for 64 years. Together, they brought up their three sons in Waccabuc, NY, and in their later years, divided their time between Lost Tree Village, Florida, and their residence in Wilson, Wyoming. Bob's legacy continues through his three sons, Chris MacLean (married to Cathryn Kishbaugh), Ian MacLean, and Mark MacLean (married to Marsha Yamaykina), as well as his five grandchildren.

Bob's zest for life, his ability to make others laugh, and his optimistic view will be cherished by his loved ones.

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KTM reveals details on a comprehensive 100-point strategy to safeguard its racing endeavors

"Actions were implemented by us well in advance"

KTM is implementing a strategy comprised of 100 specific measures aimed at reducing expenses within its racing division, with the goal of maintaining its operations despite facing financial difficulties.

The Austrian company is currently undergoing a reorganization to avoid insolvency, with its debts believed to exceed €3 billion.

The initial gathering of the creditors ended on a positive note, permitting KTM to maintain its existing structure and proceed with its reorganization plans. Moreover, there has been significant interest from external investors, amounting to €700 million.

Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has shown interest in investing, with his management team engaging in "solid" talks with KTM.

Nonetheless, a section of the creditors' document mentioned that KTM's exit from MotoGP was "premeditated."

Scheduled for 2026, KTM has already announced its participation in this year's grid.

During a conversation with Speedweek, Pit Beirer, who oversees motorsports for KTM, discussed the company's implementation of a 100-point strategy aimed at reducing expenses within its sports department.

"He mentioned that actions were implemented quite some time back."

"When agreements came to an end, it was simpler to make adjustments than during this period, where contracts are archived in various places.

"A notably straightforward yet distressing matter is that we've cut down our global programme by 12 racers, with each one being crucial for the livelihood of two to four staff members."

The choice to dissolve specific racing squads or to exclude certain racers in various classes has mainly impacted our team of drivers, but behind the scenes, it has led to a significant number of job losses.

"For every project that comes to an end, there invariably exist a pair of surplus trucks, alongside additional vehicles and automobiles."

"Subsequently, the materials required by the drivers become unnecessary. These reductions are swift actions that have noticeable effects."

Beirer additionally pointed out that KTM has ceased to be the main sponsor for the Hard Enduro World Championship.

In the world of Grand Prix racing, KTM has removed the GASGAS name from competition, and Husqvarna is no longer present either.

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Enduro World Championship contender Kalle Rovanpera introduces his newly formed team.

Kalle Rovanpera, who has claimed the World Rally Championship title twice, revealed the formation of his brand new KR69 World Enduro Team. This team is set to start participating in the EnduroGP World Championship starting this season.

Rovanpera's squad plans to enter a Husqvarna FE 250 for his fellow Finn, Roni Kyttonen, whom Rovanpera has also backed in 2024.

Kyttonen had to pull out of the remaining races of the 2024 season in both the EnduroGP and the Finnish Championship after sustaining a hand injury during the EnduroGP event in Wales in August.

The rider from Finland boasts three European Enduro Championship victories and the 2020 EnduroGP Junior 1 global championship.

The KR69 WET, which incorporates Rovanpera's initials and World Rally Championship driver number, signifies a significant milestone in his motorsport journey as he embarks on the role of a team owner for the first time.

At 24 years old, he will take on dual roles, handling management responsibilities while also fulfilling his driving commitments. He is set to make a full-time comeback to the World Rally Championship (WRC) with the official Toyota team in 2025, following a partial season in 2024. Despite the limited participation that year, he managed to secure three rally victories. Notably, one of these wins came at Rally Poland, where he and his co-driver Jonne Halttunen stepped in as replacements for Sebastien Ogier and Vincent Landais, who had to withdraw due to an accident with a non-competition vehicle during the reconnaissance run.

Rovanpera's venture into enduro racing isn't a novel path for Finnish champions in car racing transitioning to motorcycle competitions. Kimi Raikkonen, who clinched the Formula 1 World Championship in 2007, has been involved in the Motocross World Championship since 2014 through his IceOne Racing team. Initially, this team was the official team for Husqvarna before switching to represent Kawasaki starting in 2022.

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

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In-Depth Examination: The Challenges of Preserving KTM's MotoGP Squad

In the most recent episode of the Crash MotoGP Podcast, the panel delves into KTM's present predicament.

KTM's persistent economic troubles and the consequent effects on its MotoGP initiative have been a major focus in the news this off-season.

As the firm proceeds with its reorganization efforts, there's a guarded sense of hope for its prospects. However, significant skepticism surrounds its Formula 1 racing initiative.

Under the present reorganization strategy, there's a scheduled departure from MotoGP in 2026, yet in a recent conversation, motorsport chief Pit Beirer mentioned that Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, has shown an eagerness to invest.

"Captivating remarks, right? Going through the Speedweek interview where Pit Beirer mentioned having substantial discussions with his management team," remarked Jordan Moreland, the Social Media Manager at Crash.net.

"This isn't the initial instance of Lewis Hamilton being associated with a MotoGP team, for instance."

"In 2024, during the Gresini incident, it was observed that Hamilton did not explicitly refute the allegations."

"He has consistently expressed a desire to potentially own a MotoGP team and consider investing in one eventually."

"The anticipation really builds for me, especially when you see Lewis Hamilton’s name mentioned: he's the top Formula 1 driver."

"Some individuals may not be fans of this idea, but he is considered the most outstanding Formula 1 driver in history. The possibility of his association with KTM, given their current circumstances, is surely thrilling. This is particularly true when someone like Pit Beirer is mentioning it."

Senior Correspondent Lewis Duncan expressed: "In my view, if someone isn't thrilled about this, they likely don't grasp the incredible opportunity presented by Lewis Hamilton's foray into MotoGP.

He's incredibly passionate about motorcycles. He adores MotoGP racing. He owns a unique MV Agusta model. He's participated in Superbike track days alongside the Yamaha World Superbike team. Moreover, he's exchanged rides with Valentino Rossi.

"He's a genuine enthusiast of cycling, truly passionate about it. Moreover, his zeal extends to being an avid fan of motorsports."

"People have unjustly labeled him as someone only interested in leveraging Hollywood connections and pursuing business ventures, without considering the full picture."

"Indeed, it's permissible for drivers to engage in activities beyond their professional realm, and for many, racing occupies only a fraction of their lives. Typically, a career at the pinnacle of this field spans about a decade for the majority. Hamilton, however, has surpassed this average, having competed for 15 years, and it's expected he'll continue for at least a few more years."

"Moreover, he's only in his 40s, with plenty of years ahead. He's secured his future, and that's commendable."

"If he becomes associated with KTM, the specific nature of his involvement remains unclear, but it would definitely attract investors who previously might not have considered it."

"Remember, he's the one who managed a fairly successful squad in Extreme E and holds co-ownership of the NFL's Denver Broncos. His involvement goes beyond merely expanding his business interests; he's genuinely committed to creating positive change."

The idea of Hamilton joining forces with KTM in MotoGP is thrilling, however, Crash MotoGP Editor Peter McLaren cautions that partnering with a factory team is not an easy feat.

"He mentioned that Red Bull has a strong connection with KTM, something that Pit Beirer has highlighted lately," he stated.

"Red Bull and KTM maintain a tight partnership across all racing events, and there are no plans to dissolve this alliance.

"Red Bull has remained utterly quiet about the matter, yet it's safe to assume that they are intensely focused on the developments and are closely observing from behind the scenes."

"Logically, they might be an investor or someone drawn to it, given their expertise in the field."

"Numerous prominent figures have expressed their interest in investing and joining a MotoGP team."

"However, there's a significant disparity between running an independent racing team, which essentially is open for anyone to step in and start racing immediately – with options to lease motorcycles and so forth – and assuming control of a factory team. In the latter case, you're responsible as a constructor, necessitating a comprehensive technical crew to not only design and upkeep the motorcycle but also to undertake research and development, manage a test team, and handle all related tasks."

"It's a huge endeavor, yet Red Bull meets all the criteria since they possess the financial power, a passion for motorsport, and the technical expertise through their Formula 1 team.

"Picture a scenario where KTM emerges from this situation with an agreement that not only boosts Red Bull's participation but also brings Lewis Hamilton into the mix in some way."

"It would be amazing if they managed to accomplish that. And who can say? The challenge right now is that KTM is a manufacturer, and it's not something just anyone can step into."

There's been quite a bit of chatter regarding BMW making an entrance, but they seem to be hesitating and pulling back.

"This firm boasts an extensive history in bike production and clinched the Superbike championship title this year."

"This emphasizes the significance of becoming a constructor in MotoGP, underscoring that it's an achievement that should not be taken lightly."

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Examination: The Challenges in Rescuing KTM’s MotoGP Squad

The team delves into KTM's present circumstances in the newest episode of the Crash MotoGP Podcast.

The financial difficulties currently faced by KTM and their potential effects on the company's MotoGP initiative have been a major focus in the news this winter.

The company's reorganization efforts are proceeding, and there is a sense of guarded hope regarding its prospects. However, significant skepticism surrounds its grand prix initiative.

Under the current restructuring plans, there is a scheduled departure from MotoGP in 2026. However, Pit Beirer, the motorsport head, recently discussed the interest shown by Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion in Formula 1, in making an investment.

"Jordan Moreland, who manages social media for Crash.net, remarked that it was quite intriguing to read the Speedweek interview with Pit Beirer, where he mentioned having concrete discussions with his management."

This isn't the first occasion where Lewis Hamilton has been associated with a MotoGP team, for instance.

"In 2024, we witnessed it with Gresini, and there were claims that Hamilton didn’t exactly refute."

He has consistently expressed an interest in potentially acquiring or investing in a MotoGP team at some point in the future.

"I find it thrilling to see Lewis Hamilton's name mentioned; he is the top F1 driver."

"While some individuals may not appreciate it, he is considered the best Formula 1 driver of all time. Seeing his name associated with KTM, especially given their current circumstances, is thrilling, particularly when Pit Beirer is the one making the statement."

Veteran journalist Lewis Duncan from Crash remarked, "I believe those who aren't thrilled about this don't truly grasp the potential we have with Lewis Hamilton stepping into MotoGP."

He's really passionate about motorcycles. He's a big fan of MotoGP and owns a unique edition of an MV Agusta. He's participated in Superbike track days alongside the Yamaha World Superbike team. He also once swapped rides with Valentino Rossi.

"He is truly passionate about bikes and absolutely adores them. Moreover, he is an avid enthusiast of motorsports."

Some individuals have unjustly accused him of being involved solely for the Hollywood ties and the business aspects, dismissing his intentions with remarks like "blah, blah, blah."

"Drivers have the freedom to engage in activities outside their main profession, and racing represents just one aspect of their lives. Typically, a racing career at the top level spans around 10 years for most individuals. Lewis Hamilton, however, has already been in the sport for 15 years and is likely to continue for a few more years at the very least."

"Additionally, he's only in his 40s and has many years ahead of him. He's taken steps to secure his future, which deserves respect."

Should he decide to engage with KTM, the exact nature of his involvement remains uncertain. However, his association alone could potentially attract investors who might not have previously considered investing.

"We should remember that this is the individual who managed to build a fairly successful team in Extreme E and holds part ownership of the Denver Broncos NFL team. He undertakes these ventures not just to enhance his business interests, but with a genuine desire to create a meaningful impact."

Though the idea of Hamilton teaming up with KTM in MotoGP is thrilling, Peter McLaren, the editor at Crash MotoGP, cautions that joining forces with a factory team is a significant undertaking.

He mentioned that Red Bull and KTM have a very strong connection, something that Pit Beirer has recently highlighted.

Red Bull and KTM are inseparable in the racing world, and they have no plans to end their collaboration.

"Although Red Bull has not publicly commented on the matter, it is likely that they are intensely observing and analyzing the situation behind closed doors."

"It's logical that they might be an investor or among those who would show interest in it. Naturally, they also possess the technical expertise."

"A number of prominent individuals are keen on investing and joining a MotoGP team."

"However, there's a significant distinction between an independent team, which anyone could essentially take charge of and start competing with immediately by leasing bikes and other necessities, and a factory team. In a factory setup, you are the manufacturer and must have a comprehensive technical team supporting you to design, maintain, and conduct research and development on the bike, along with having a dedicated testing team and more."

"That's a huge task, but Red Bull is well-equipped to handle it. They have the financial resources, a keen interest in motorsports, and the technical expertise from their Formula 1 team."

"Picture a scenario where KTM emerges from this situation with a new agreement, resulting in increased involvement from Red Bull and possibly Lewis Hamilton too."

"It would be amazing if they managed to combine all those elements. And who can say for sure? I believe the challenge right now is that KTM is a manufacturer, and not just anyone can enter the scene."

"There have been ongoing discussions about BMW entering the market, but they have been hesitant and indecisive, often retreating from their plans."

"They're a firm that has extensive experience in manufacturing bicycles and clinched the Superbike championship title this year."

"Therefore, it emphasizes the significance of achieving the status of a constructor in MotoGP. I believe it's something that should not be taken lightly."

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Rally champion Kalle Rovanpera has introduced his new team for participation in the Enduro World Championship.

Kalle Rovanpera, who has won the World Rally Championship two times, has revealed his latest venture, the KR69 World Enduro Team. This team is set to start participating in the EnduroGP World Championship starting this season.

Rovanpera's squad is set to provide a Husqvarna FE 250 for fellow Finn, Roni Kyttonen, whom Rovanpera also backed in 2024.

Due to a hand injury sustained at the EnduroGP event in Wales in August, Kyttonen had to pull out of the second half of the 2024 season in both the EnduroGP and the Finnish Championship.

The Finnish motorcyclist boasts three European Enduro Championship victories and also secured the 2020 EnduroGP Junior 1 world championship.

Kalle Rovanpera is taking a significant leap in his motorsport journey with the introduction of the KR69 WET, a name that reflects his initials and racing number in the World Rally Championship. This venture marks his debut as a team owner.

The 24-year-old is set to take on managerial responsibilities in addition to his usual driving tasks as he makes a comeback to full-time World Rally Championship (WRC) competition in 2025 with the official Toyota team. This follows a partial season in 2024, where he managed to secure three rally victories. One of these notable wins occurred at Rally Poland, where he and co-driver Jonne Halttunen were unexpectedly called in to substitute for Sebastien Ogier and Vincent Landais after they were involved in a collision with a civilian vehicle during the reconnaissance phase.

Kalle Rovanpera's enduro team isn't the first instance of a Finnish four-wheel World Champion venturing into dirt bike racing. Back in 2014, Kimi Raikkonen, the 2007 Formula 1 World Champion, established his IceOne Racing motocross team, which initially served as the factory team for Husqvarna in the Motocross World Championship. In 2022, the team transitioned to represent Kawasaki.

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

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KTM unveils detailed strategy to rescue its racing initiatives

“We implemented actions quite some time back”

KTM is implementing a comprehensive 100-step strategy to reduce expenses within its racing department. This initiative aims to maintain its racing activities despite facing a financial crisis.

The Austrian company is currently undergoing a reorganization to avoid going bankrupt, as its liabilities are believed to exceed €3 billion.

The initial gathering of creditors was promising, as KTM received approval to maintain its operations and proceed with its reorganization. Additionally, external investors have shown interest amounting to €700 million.

Lewis Hamilton, who has won the Formula 1 world championship seven times, is an investor showing interest. His management team has had "substantial" talks with KTM.

A section of the creditors' report mentioned that KTM's exit from MotoGP had been "planned."

The event is scheduled for 2026, but KTM has already announced that it will be participating on the grid this year.

In a conversation with Speedweek, Pit Beirer, the head of motorsports at KTM, discussed the brand's comprehensive 100-point strategy designed to reduce expenses in its sports department.

"We implemented actions quite some time back," he stated.

"When contracts came to an end, it was simpler to make changes than it is now, as contracts are filed in various places at this time of year."

"A straightforward yet distressing problem is that we've cut back on our global program by 12 racers, and each one of them supports two, three, or four staff members."

The choice to dissolve specific racing teams or eliminate certain drivers in various categories has had a significant impact, particularly on the drivers themselves. However, it has also led to a substantial loss of jobs behind the scenes.

"Whenever a project is discontinued, it typically results in two trucks becoming redundant, along with various other vehicles and cars."

"The resources required by the drivers are no longer necessary. These reductions are prompt actions that have a visible impact."

Beirer mentioned that KTM has ceased to be the main sponsor for the Hard Enduro World Championship.

In the realm of grand prix racing, KTM has removed the GASGAS brand from the lineup, and Husqvarna is no longer present either.

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Former grand prix team owner passes away at 87 Bob MacLean, who led the Red Bull WCM team to victory in five 500cc grand prix races, has died.

Bob MacLean, who led his independent team to victory in five 500GP races while racing under the Red Bull Yamaha WCM name, passed away at 87.

In 1992, MacLean established the independent WCM team and brought Peter Clifford on board as the team manager.

Following their use of ROC chassis powered by Yamaha engines, WCM received an offer for factory-spec YZR500s for the 1997 season and secured a primary sponsorship agreement with Red Bull.

In 1998, Simon Crafar secured the team's inaugural win at Donington Park, and the subsequent year, Regis Laconi achieved another victory for the team in Valencia.

The year 2000 marked the highlight of WCM's racing season, as Garry McCoy, known for his sliding technique, achieved three wins and secured fifth place in the world championship standings.

In 2001, McCoy achieved three additional podium finishes and managed to surpass his teammate Noriyuki Haga in points, even though he was absent from several races because of an injury.

In 2002, as the new four-stroke era began, McCoy and his new teammate, John Hopkins, kept using two-stroke engines because there weren't enough of Yamaha's new M1 engines available.

At the conclusion of the season, Red Bull transitioned to KTM. Meanwhile, WCM focused on developing its own four-stroke prototype, utilizing a modified R1 engine and a frame constructed by Harris.

Disagreements between MotoGP and WorldSBK created obstacles for the project, and a later proposal to develop a V6 engine bike with support from Blata failed to come to fruition, resulting in the team's absence from the 2006 world championship.

An announcement released by Road Racing World stated:

Bob MacLean, a beloved husband, father, and teacher, died peacefully at his residence in Wilson, Wyoming, on December 14, 2024, at 87. He was born on February 18, 1937, in Coronado, California, to parents Robert John MacLean and Mary Witty MacLean. Bob's life was distinguished by his strong dedication to education, athletics, and community service.

Having spent numerous years as a motorcycle racer, Bob went on to establish World Championship Motorsports in 1991. He served as the co-owner and operator of this organization until 2005. WCM participated in the prestigious FIM Grand Prix Motorcycle series, representing the pinnacle of International Motorsports. Bob's entrepreneurial drive, coupled with his dedication to education and sports, showcased his exceptional leadership abilities.

Bob played a significant role in his community, particularly as a member of the South Kent School Board from 1990 to 1999. He held the position of President from 1995 to 1999, during which his guidance and benevolence were influential in directing the school's path forward. Additionally, Bob was a dedicated participant on the Teton County Sheriff’s Auxiliary board for more than 20 years and was involved with the New York Board of the Shakespeare Globe.

In Wilson, Wyoming, Bob discovered tranquility and contentment through his passion for fly fishing and enjoying life on his ranch. As an advocate for community initiatives, he donated to groups like the Jackson Hole Land Trust and the National Museum of Wildlife Art, demonstrating his profound respect for the area's natural splendor.

Bob found his deepest happiness in his family. His legacy includes his wife, Mary Anna (Marna) MacLean, with whom he shared 64 years of marriage. The couple raised three sons in Waccabuc, New York, before dividing their time between Lost Tree Village, Florida, and their residence in Wilson, Wyoming. Bob is also remembered by his three sons: Chris MacLean, married to Cathryn Kishbaugh; Ian MacLean; and Mark MacLean, who is married to Marsha Yamaykina, as well as his five grandchildren.

Bob's zest for life, his humor, and his optimistic attitude will be cherished by those who knew him, including his friends and family.

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Peter has spent two decades in the paddock, witnessing the career of Valentino Rossi from start to finish. He is closely following the developments of Suzuki's departure and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with his injuries.

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Max Bartolini: "Mastering the rear grip can boost your speed" – An Exclusive

"Focus on the most durable of the tyres"

Max Bartolini, the technical director for Monster Yamaha, has highlighted the importance of optimizing rear tyre performance as a crucial factor for achieving success in MotoGP.

In motorsports where the front and rear tires have varying specifications or dimensions, one end—either the front or the rear—will typically have more grip than the other.

During the Bridgestone tire period from 2009 to 2015, the front tires were considered the most robust. However, with Michelin's entry in 2016, the focus shifted entirely to the rear tires.

Although it may appear reasonable for MotoGP designers to concentrate on enhancing the performance of the 'weaker' tyre to improve lap and race times, Bartolini clarified that it is more crucial to take advantage of the stronger tyre.

“The Italian, who became part of Yamaha's team from Ducati a year ago, explained to Crash.net that typically, when considering the front and rear tyres, the focus is usually on the more robust tyre.”

According to Bridgestone, the front tire performed exceptionally well. Meanwhile, the rear tire maintained a consistent level of performance throughout the race without any significant decline.

"Back in 2016, when we began collaborating with Michelin, the rear tires were quite robust, while the front ones posed significant handling challenges. There were numerous crashes during the initial testing phase."

"Michelin has significantly improved the front, making it vastly better than it was initially."

"However, the back end remains extremely powerful, which is why riders frequently discuss the traction of the rear."

"Anyone who can fully utilize the rear grip has the potential to increase their speed."

Bartolini was swift to debunk the misconception that rear grip is solely important during acceleration.

"Every corner involves phases of braking, entering, maintaining corner speed, and accelerating," he stated.

"Maintaining speed while entering and navigating through a corner is more challenging than accelerating."

"[Furthermore], without achieving entry and corner speed, acceleration cannot be achieved."

Yamaha, which hasn't achieved a podium finish in 2024, is working on a V4 engine project in addition to its traditional Inline4 engine. This development aims to enhance the performance of their rear tyres.

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For two decades, Peter has been an active presence in the racing community, witnessing the entire career of Valentino Rossi. He is deeply involved in covering the narrative of Suzuki's departure and the ongoing injury challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

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