Surprising contender emerges in discussions about MotoGP conflicts

Analysts speculate on potential outbursts in 2025

Crash.net contributors discuss potential rifts among MotoGP team partners this year…

Peter McLaren believes that team dynamics are most harmonious when members are not directly competing with one another for victories, podium spots, or vying for the same position in the subsequent season.

Considering this perspective, the contenders who appear to be most comparably skilled and expected to vie for the 2025 MotoGP championship are undoubtedly Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez.

Certainly, Ducati Lenovo is aware of the challenges that come with possessing a 'dream team' roster. It's now a matter of observing their ability to manage this situation effectively.

Bagnaia mentioned previously, "It might turn out extremely well or completely fail!"

Lewis Duncan: The most straightforward response is the Ducati team duo, yet there's an intriguing situation developing within the KTM factory team in 2025.

Pedro Acosta's move to the official team marks a new challenge for Brad Binder, as he gains a teammate capable of pushing his limits. During his debut season with Tech3 GASGAS, Acosta impressed by securing nine podium finishes, in stark contrast to Binder's two, both of which were achieved in the first race of the season.

Previously a favorite at KTM, Binder has gradually been eclipsed by Acosta, a trend that is likely to persist into 2025 unless he elevates his performance.

Binder hasn't secured a victory since 2021, and the expectations for him to excel are increasing. His reliability has been a significant advantage for KTM, aiding in his rise above Acosta in last year's rankings.

However, this approach will have its limits if Acosta consistently begins to outperform him. Should that occur, friction is likely to arise.

Alex Whitworth suggests that tension might arise between Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta, as Binder was expected to be KTM's lead, yet now the spotlight seems to be shifting towards the newcomer from Spain. Moreover, he hints at the likelihood of Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi reviving their competitive spirit from their 2018 Moto3 days.

Nonetheless, given the strong possibility of the two Ducati team members contending for the championship, it seems probable that Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez will find themselves in a bit of a disagreement.

The mutual regard they share appears intact, yet across 20 races, it's clear there's room for it to diminish.

Derry Munikartono: I'll be drawing parallels between Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, comparing their dynamic to the famous Mclaren-Honda duo of Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost back in 1988.

Marquez joined the Ducati factory squad, already spotlighting Bagnaia as their star rider. This situation echoes the moment Ayrton Senna joined McLaren, a team that had centered its strategies around Prost in 1988.

Although he's not the favored competitor, Marc Marquez's relentless determination to succeed, reminiscent of Senna's approach, is likely to challenge Bagnaia's more calculated and strategic style, akin to that of Prost.

At the start, the competition on the racetrack will be impressive yet courteous. However, as the season progresses, the intensity of the rivalry is expected to escalate dramatically, especially if issues from the track spill over into other areas.

It's common knowledge that Marc and Valentino Rossi, who guides Pecco in the VR46 Academy, have had their fair share of encounters in the past. Rossi, often referred to as "The Doctor," has openly expressed his desire to have a more significant presence in the MotoGP paddock by 2025. Coincidentally, this wish aligns with the time when his rival will be teaming up in MotoGP's top garage with the student he mentors.

Up until now, there's been a good rapport between the two racers off the circuit, paired with an incredible rivalry during races. However, when it comes down to competing for the top award in motorbike racing, one can only speculate on the outcome.

Jordan Moreland: This one's rather straightforward, curious to see if you can figure it out?

Countdown ends: Pecco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez.

Following intense confrontations in 2024, the atmosphere is expected to become even more charged in 2025 and 2026, with all parties sharing the same space. Personally, I'd rather not be in the shoes of those managing Ducati during this time!

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Is MotoGP facing a seismic shift? KTM's expected supremacy sparks concerns over future narratives

Analysts forecast the next big narrative – what will stir controversy in 2025?

Journalists at Crash.net forecast which narrative might take center stage in this MotoGP season…

Lewis Duncan: The spotlight for the 2025 season will undoubtedly be on KTM's forthcoming strategies. The financial troubles faced by the Austrian brand are significantly affecting its involvement in racing events.

The company has been forced to reduce its manufacturing operations universally. Although it will proceed with its participation in MotoGP in 2025, it intends to pull out in 2026 as part of its ongoing reorganization efforts.

The possibility remains strong for the racing division to secure its future, yet the circumstances are highly changeable, and it is expected that there will be further developments before a resolution is reached.

Peter McLaren: Beyond the competition for the world championship, KTM's troubling fiscal condition presents numerous challenges for MotoGP, which is already dealing with the postponed agreement with Liberty.

Fortunately, it appears that the KTM MotoGP initiative is secure for 2025, though there's uncertainty regarding its fate in 2026 and particularly if the RC16 will persist with the upcoming 850cc regulations starting in 2027.

It is anticipated that several other makers will debut their 850cc motorcycle prototypes on the racetrack before this year concludes.

The unpredictability will undoubtedly affect the thoughts of KTM's quartet of racers – Pedro Acosta, Brad Binder, Maverick Vinales, and Enea Bastianini, making up its most formidable MotoGP roster to date – as well as the crew involved.

Competing teams are ready to snatch up riders or crucial staff members the moment they're on the market, further compounding KTM's difficulties.

On a bright note, should KTM's search for funding lead to international racing icon Lewis Hamilton joining MotoGP, it would undoubtedly benefit the sport.

Jordan Moreland: Observing Jorge Martin's demeanor over the course of the season will be intriguing, particularly if outcomes don't meet his expectations. As a World Champion, he holds himself to a lofty standard. However, it remains to be seen whether he can steer Aprilia towards success.

Alex Whitworth suggests that while the rivalry between Bagnaia and Marquez might escalate significantly, the looming threat of KTM, one of the championship's top five teams, potentially folding could overshadow much of this year's competitive discussions.

Notably, they have agreements with the most thrilling MotoGP competitor, Pedro Acosta, and also manage the contract for the top talent in the junior categories, David Alonso, via CFMoto Aspar.

KTM's potential exit from MotoGP could have a massive impact, particularly as the significant rule modifications set for 2027 draw closer.

Derry Munikartono: Discussing the rivalry called 'the battle in Red' involving Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia is something I no longer wish to engage in; I've reached my limit on the topic.

To me, the anticipated acquisition of MotoGP by Liberty Media stands out as a particularly fascinating narrative for the 2025 season.

Liberty's acquisition of Dorna, the entity overseeing MotoGP's commercial operations, hints at a promising growth path for the series, mirroring their success with Formula 1.

After purchasing Formula 1 in 2017, Liberty quickly transformed the racing series into arguably the world's most popular sports spectacle. Members of the MotoGP community are hopeful for a similar revival once they assume control of the motorcycle racing segment.

However, the examination of antitrust regulations within the European Union (EU) has introduced a snag, delaying the acquisition until mid-2025. Despite the anticipation surrounding the acquisition, it's important to hold off on celebrating Liberty Media's arrival until a decision has been made.

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Toto Wolff cautions Mercedes in light of impending 2026 F1 regulations adjustments: “No room for error”

“Excellence is required across all aspects of our operation. Merely having a superior engine will not suffice.”

Toto Wolff has acknowledged that come the introduction of the 2026 F1 regulations, Mercedes will be left with "no place to conceal" their performance.

2026 is set to introduce major modifications to technical rules, especially concerning the power unit.

In 2026, F1 engines are set to undergo a transformation towards greater electrification, driven by the compulsory adoption of eco-friendly fuels.

Red Bull leader Christian Horner has characterized the alterations as the most significant ever in the history of the sport.

Consequently, the landscape of competition is anticipated to shift, with a more pronounced focus on engine performance.

Mercedes notably excelled at the onset of the significant engine transformation in 2014.

Mercedes' engine unit set the standard, leading to their overwhelming dominance in the sport.

It wasn't until 2018 that Ferrari managed to close the gap, though their methods were questionable, leading the FIA to implement changes by the end of 2019 to limit the Scuderia's advantages.

2026 might unfold in a comparable manner, yet Wolff approaches the upcoming year with caution due to a specific concern.

In a conversation with AMuS, Wolff expressed, "I'm not feeling uneasy. It's an incredibly fascinating challenge."

"Executing your duties to the highest standard at every stage is essential. Merely having an efficient engine won't suffice for progress."

"McLaren will possess that as well. Consequently, our advantage must lie in the chassis. There's no room for excuses."

Mercedes optimistic about 2026 prospects

Though Wolff has expressed worries regarding McLaren's challenge, the overall sentiment at Mercedes remains upbeat.

Technical director James Allison mentioned that the sentiment is "comparable" to that of 2014.

Speaking to Sky Sports at Imola the previous year, he mentioned, “I wasn't part of the team during the lead-up to 2014 when they were developing the new generation of power units and making a significant effort to bring them to life.

"However, those among us in the group who have experienced it, share that the sensation is quite alike."

At Mercedes High Performance Powertrains (HPP), there's a significant push underway to ensure success, as this will shape the future for anyone fortunate enough to have this technology powering their car for several upcoming seasons.

"We're fortunate to be the beneficiaries of the significant investments being made for our mutual benefit."

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Lewis Hamilton receives caution about the dynamic with his Ferrari co-driver, contrasting it with his time at Mercedes

"The point isn't to undermine Lewis, but the circumstances differ – Leclerc isn't Bottas. He's significantly faster."

Former Formula 1 team leader Peter Windsor anticipates a different performance level from Lewis Hamilton with his switch to Ferrari, differing from his dominant runs at Mercedes.

Hamilton is transitioning to Maranello from Mercedes, a move that comes after a 12-year partnership, starting in 2025.

The alliance between Hamilton and Mercedes became iconic, securing six drivers' championships and eight team championships.

Nonetheless, Mercedes' inability to grasp the present 'ground effect' regulations led to Hamilton's increasing frustration.

He chose to realize a lifelong ambition by committing to Ferrari for the upcoming two years.

Hamilton is up against a huge challenge as he competes with Charles Leclerc, considered by many to be the quickest driver in F1 for one lap.

Windsor, a notable F1 commentator, thinks Hamilton will struggle to match his previous achievements with Mercedes because of the quality of his racing partner.

"Windsor, through his YouTube channel, suggested reconsidering expectations for Lewis's performance at Ferrari compared to his Mercedes days. He pointed out that Lewis's dominance at Mercedes was partly due to having an exceptionally cooperative teammate."

"Rather than Nico Rosberg, it was Valtteri Bottas who had a superior vehicle. This isn't to diminish Lewis's accomplishments, but the circumstances differ – Leclerc isn't on the same level as Bottas. He's significantly faster."

Hamilton has experience dealing with challenging teammates in F1.

In his debut season with the squad, he directly competed against Fernando Alonso, who has clinched the F1 world championship twice.

In 2010, he teamed up with the then-world champion, Jenson Button.

Throughout his tenure with Mercedes, he faced competition from Nico Rosberg, followed by George Russell, both of whom presented significant challenges.

In 2025, the competition between Hamilton and Leclerc will remain unchanged.

Since beginning his Formula 1 career in 2018, Leclerc has consistently outperformed his teammate in every qualifying session they've faced off in.

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Lewis Hamilton is supported to possess the desire and drive needed to lead Ferrari to a championship victory in 2025.

Former Formula One driver Johnny Herbert firmly believes that Lewis Hamilton has the drive and determination to contend for a championship with Ferrari, as long as he is equipped with the necessary resources.

This week marked a significant milestone for Hamilton, as he made his inaugural visit to Ferrari's headquarters in Maranello.

Hamilton not only interacted with a considerable number of Ferrari employees but also had the opportunity to pilot a Ferrari F1 vehicle for the first time.

Hamilton took to the track at Fiorano, piloting the team's 2023 F1 contender on Wednesday.

The event marked a significant milestone, attended by Hamilton's family and with Ferrari's passionate fans crowding the avenues, eager to see the seven-time world champion.

In a conversation with Casinoutanspelpaus.io, Herbert expressed his belief that Hamilton will show greater determination, especially since the Ferrari offering is expected to be more competitive than the Mercedes setup he contended with the previous year.

"Herbert believes that with Ferrari's drive and a powerful car capable of providing the necessary speed, Lewis Hamilton has a solid chance of securing another championship victory."

"The driving force will be singular. The encouragement he receives from the vehicle will certainly be enhanced with a reduction in minor errors. I might venture to point out that Hamilton has slipped up more often than usual, but it seems the circumstances at Mercedes were not conducive.

"In the final few races of the previous season, his performance on the track was outstanding, showing great strength. Hamilton is certainly eager to claim the championship title at this point, and it all rests on Fred Vasseur to provide him with a vehicle that enables him to realize that potential."

"2025 presents an excellent chance for Ferrari to advance beyond their 2024 performance and bring a significantly stronger contender to the field. This could be the perfect moment for such a leap, and looking ahead to 2026, the focus remains on perfecting the vehicle."

Hamilton sets sights on breaking Ferrari's prolonged championship dry spell since 2008.

In 2024, Ferrari narrowly missed out, ending the season just 13 points short of McLaren in the team standings.

The Scuderia team found themselves regretting a mid-season enhancement that cut their season short.

A recent development in Barcelona led to the resurgence of the bouncing issue for the team, causing them to fall behind Red Bull, McLaren, and Mercedes in the competitive hierarchy.

Despite making improvements with a new upgrade at Monza, it was ultimately insufficient to recover from the significant lead McLaren had established.

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Outrage clarified following "blind or stupid" comment directed at Michael Schumacher

"Had he admitted in the interview ‘I forced him off the track’, I would have accepted it"

Juan Pablo Montoya has shared his frustration with Michael Schumacher following their well-known disagreement, where he questioned Schumacher's vision or intelligence.

At the 2004 San Marino Grand Prix, Schumacher from Ferrari fiercely maintained his lead against Montoya of Williams during the first lap.

Schumacher emerged victorious, yet Montoya, who finished third, later criticized, saying, “Only someone blind or foolish could fail to notice me!”

Montoya recently shared on the Beyond The Grid podcast, saying, "They had the speed advantage over us. However, we were fast and equipped with new tyres."

"In order to overtake him, I needed to accelerate immediately. He forced me off the road, but I was fine."

"I would have made the same choice!"

"I was fine with it. Had he admitted in the interview, 'I pushed him off the track,' then I would have been fine with it.

"He claimed, 'I didn't notice him'."

"Everyone else seems to ponder and speak, yet I speak and ponder! I astonish all those surrounding me!"

Montoya voiced his frustration, stating that other racers refused to challenge Schumacher when he was at the peak of his performance with Ferrari.

"Montoya expressed frustration, saying, 'The irritating part about Michael? He had no competitors.'"

"As he approached from behind, everyone was like, 'Oh, here comes Michael, move aside.'"

"That irritates me."

"The sentiment was akin to 'that's Michael, you don't mess with Michael'. He commanded immense respect."

"My strategy in competitions? Honestly, I was quite ruthless on the track. Folks believed I had lost my mind, but it proved effective.

"When I forced the car into their path, it was clear I wasn't going to back down. They were left with two options – either make space for me or face a collision!

The sole occasion I had a conversation with Michael occurred during my tenure with BMW, while he was part of the Ferrari team.

We received an invitation to a celebration at the Nurburgring following the race.

"Michael, Rubens, and I were the ones involved. We ended up drinking too much, and that's all there was to it!"

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Key indication of Ferrari's progress spotted, promising news for Lewis Hamilton

Sebastian Vettel's previous curse might now be coming to an end

It is alleged that Ferrari's recent capability to enhance their vehicle throughout the season will benefit Lewis Hamilton.

In recent years, amidst the fierce competition of development, the Italian producer has struggled to make a favorable impact on its machinery.

Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz managed to recover from a challenging phase last season, suggesting that Hamilton might be able to rely on Ferrari in the current year.

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"Connor McDonagh from Crash highlighted on the Crash F1 podcast that a pivotal moment for Ferrari last year was their ability to surmount their in-season development challenges."

The improvements they made in Barcelona ended up being a disadvantage, causing them to fall to being the third or fourth quickest team. At Silverstone, Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc were equipped with varying setups.

They moved past that hurdle, introducing an enhanced version for Monza, and surprisingly secured a victory at COTA.

"They concluded the season on a high note, demonstrating their ability to enhance their vehicle."

"Has Vettel's Curse Lifted at Ferrari?

"During the time Sebastian Vettel competed against Hamilton, their performance consistently declined as the season progressed," Connor McDonagh observed.

"Ferrari is showing plenty of promising indicators. Securing Hamilton means you're in the running for the championship!"

A car capable of competing for the championship will also inspire Hamilton.

"Everything appears promising for Ferrari, yet McLaren seems to have a slight advantage with their vehicle."

"Obviously, dismissing Red Bull and Max Verstappen from consideration is not an option."

Last year, Ferrari secured victories in five Formula 1 races and clinched the runner-up position in the constructors' standings, trailing behind McLaren.

Hamilton has already dedicated a week at Maranello, familiarizing himself with his new team in preparation for the 2025 season.

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Ducati reveals Marc Marquez's insights on the GP25 model

Ducati's technical leader discusses Marc Marquez's adjustment to the 2025 motorcycle

The technical chief at Ducati has shed light on Marc Marquez's adjustment process to the GP25.

Last season, while with Gresini, Marquez piloted a GP23, rejuvenating his career and propelling him back to the forefront of the competition.

This season, he advances significantly as a Ducati factory team rider, equipped with the top-notch MotoGP machinery available.

However, his team member Francesco Bagnaia is already ahead in adjusting.

"Davide Barana mentioned to Marca that [Marquez]'s style is somewhat distinct from Pecco's."

Marc excels at navigating turns; his remarkable finesse shines through on specific tracks and in particular bends, where he performs maneuvers that challenge other competitors.

"I have to mention that indeed, he desires this, though not in a direct manner, it's implied within his remarks.

"We make efforts to assist him, working on the configuration, as there's much that can be achieved on the motorcycle through adjustments to the setup."

"You don't need a separate frame or anything of that sort. The frame, its setup, how weight is distributed, and the bike's structural design can already make a big difference in how the bike performs."

Marquez has probably already navigated the toughest phase of his switch from Honda to Ducati.

"Initially, the electronics posed a greater challenge, as upon his arrival, he continued with practices he had developed at Honda. However, it must be acknowledged that he has completely transformed that aspect," Barana noted.

He has grasped the mechanics of our motorcycle, aligning his style somewhat with that of other riders. His preference leans towards an engine that's a bit more 'gritty' and responsive.

"This is partly a routine I developed while at Honda, largely due to their unique approach to engine management."

"He prefers to slightly control the engine, but it's more of a subtle distinction than a significant change."

Marquez and Bagnaia made their first appearances on the GP25 during the off-season test in Barcelona.

Fortunately for Ducati, their received feedback was comparable.

"In Barcelona, their remarks were remarkably in sync," Barana noted.

"That's positive, yet we're prepared to explore alternate routes if necessary.

"They don't necessarily have to opt for it by force. However, their agreement on the matter is beneficial."

Barana has analyzed Marquez’s data and identifies the potential brilliance he can unleash.

"Barana noted that his remarkable ability in cornering comes from an acute sensitivity to the front tire, which he believes is what enables him to push the motorcycle to its boundaries."

"Indeed, on occasion, it surpasses this threshold, typically during training sessions where precautions are implemented."

"With the Ducati, there are fewer falls. He's a well-rounded rider. We're aiming to have him apply strong braking, something Pecco already excels at and is also a hallmark of Marc.

It's clear from observing him that he's an exceptionally bright young man, demonstrating abilities that go beyond mere strength or talent.

"Champions of the World Championship are not merely skilled. They possess intellect, the capacity to put in effort, grasp scenarios, steer a team, and inspire it."

"They also exude a sense of leadership; merely riding a motorcycle doesn't suffice. The moment you lay eyes on him, he immediately conveys that aura."

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Calls to remove him rejected as Mercedes urged to keep Kimi Antonelli

Request for "room to breathe" for Toto Wolff

Mercedes has been advised to allow Andrea Kimi Antonelli ample room to grow during his first season.

Young sensation Antonelli was chosen by Toto Wolff to step in for Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes in 2025.

Despite Antonelli's exceptional skills, it's still uncertain how well he will adjust to Formula 1.

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"Lewis Larkam mentioned on the Crash F1 podcast that it's unclear how Mercedes will perform in the competitive hierarchy, noting that in recent seasons, their results have been inconsistent."

"They haven't consistently won championships, only showing sporadic brilliance, such as their performance in Vegas. Yet, they couldn't account for how they managed to accomplish that."

"Should this trend persist into 2025, which I expect it to, at least in the initial phases, establishing a concrete objective for Antonelli proves challenging."

"From the insights shared by Toto Wolff, it appears they are not likely to establish defined objectives."

He's actively sought to minimize the excitement surrounding Antonelli.

"Kimi is likely aiming for podium finishes, victories, and pole positions, though it's unclear if a precise goal has been established."

"Although he faces a certain level of stress, it's important to allow him some initial room to maneuver."

"They're introducing an 18-year-old believed to have an enormous potential. He is viewed by them as their counterpart to Max Verstappen."

"I don't believe they'll simply dismiss him if he begins sluggishly or fails to meet the anticipated benchmarks."

Mercedes could be satisfied if he remains inconspicuous and avoids damaging the car, instead of delivering standout performances that will eventually emerge.

Connor McDonagh anticipates a rapid start for Kimi Antonelli

Connor McDonagh stated, "Antonelli is joining at an opportune time. 2026 is expected to be a significant year. Toto has mentioned that there's a positive atmosphere within the team, especially with the upcoming new engines.

"Antonelli is set to experience a year filled with educational opportunities."

"His natural speed will become apparent, yet through managing the tyres, it can be enhanced."

"During his inaugural season, Charles Leclerc showcased exceptional speed when compared to Sebastian Vettel. By his sophomore year, he had significantly enhanced his ability to manage tyres."

Lewis Larkam added, "In his debut season, Oscar Piastri was definitely fast, yet he has enhanced his performance in terms of both consistency and how he manages his tyres.

"The situation will be much the same for Antonelli.

"Bringing him on board at this time is perfect for Mercedes, given the lower levels of pressure. Mercedes is thinking strategically for the future with Antonelli."

"They regard him as their upcoming star. This opportunity allows him to learn from errors before they reach a point where they're contending for a title, at which time the demands on him will change significantly."

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MotoGP faces a shocking upheaval as experts anticipate KTM's potential dominance, raising concerns. Analysts forecast which narrative might stir controversy in 2025.

Journalists at Crash.net forecast which narrative might become a major talking point in MotoGP this season…

Lewis Duncan reports that the main topic of discussion for the 2025 season will likely be KTM's future. The Austrian company is experiencing a financial crisis, significantly affecting its racing activities.

Throughout the organization, there has been a reduction in its manufacturing operations. Although MotoGP is scheduled to continue as expected in 2025, the brand intends to exit the event in 2026 as part of its ongoing reorganization strategy.

The future of the racing division could potentially be secured, but the circumstances are constantly changing and likely to experience several developments before reaching a conclusion.

Peter McLaren: Beyond the fight for the world championship, KTM's concerning financial troubles could significantly impact MotoGP. This comes at a time when the series is already dealing with the postponed Liberty agreement.

Fortunately, the KTM MotoGP initiative appears secure for the year 2025. However, uncertainty looms for 2026, particularly concerning the fate of the RC16 with the introduction of new 850cc regulations in 2027.

By the close of this year, the majority of other manufacturers are anticipated to have a prototype 850cc motorcycle ready for testing on the track.

The ambiguity is likely to weigh on the thoughts of KTM's quartet of riders—Pedro Acosta, Brad Binder, Maverick Vinales, and Enea Bastianini, who form the most formidable MotoGP team the company has ever assembled—as well as on the minds of the team staff.

Competing teams are quick to snatch up riders or important staff members if they become available, which exacerbates KTM's challenges.

Looking at the bright side, if KTM's search for funding leads to the involvement of global motorsport icon Lewis Hamilton in MotoGP, it would be beneficial for the sport.

Jordan Moreland: It will be fascinating to observe Jorge Martin's attitude during the season, particularly if events don't unfold as he hopes. Being the World Champion, he holds himself to high standards. However, the real test will be whether he can steer Aprilia onto a successful path.

Alex Whitworth suggests that the rivalry between Bagnaia and Marquez might evolve into a significant event. However, the looming downfall of KTM, one of the five manufacturers in the championship, may overshadow nearly all discussions about the sport this year.

Notably, they presently have agreements with MotoGP's standout talent, Pedro Acosta, and, via CFMoto Aspar, they also have a contract with David Alonso, a rising star in the junior categories.

The departure of KTM from MotoGP would indeed be monumental, particularly with the upcoming rule change in 2027 drawing closer.

Derry Munikartono expressed that he is uninterested in discussing the "Red showdown" involving Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia, as he feels he has heard enough about it.

In my view, one of the most captivating narratives for the 2025 season would be Liberty Media's upcoming acquisition of MotoGP.

Liberty’s acquisition of Dorna, the organization responsible for handling MotoGP's commercial operations, suggests a potential rise in the series' popularity and success, similar to what they achieved with Formula 1.

After purchasing Formula 1 in 2017, Liberty quickly elevated the series to become one of the most popular sporting events globally, if not the top. Many in the MotoGP community anticipate a similar transformation when Liberty takes control of the motorcycle racing series.

However, there is a challenge regarding the EU's antitrust investigation that has delayed the acquisition until the middle of 2025. Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the potential takeover, we must hold off on embracing Liberty Media with optimism until a decision is reached.

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"Remove him" suggestion rejected as Mercedes advised to remain with Kimi Antonelli

Request for "room to breathe" for Toto Wolff

Mercedes has been advised to allow Andrea Kimi Antonelli some "breathing room" during his debut season.

Young sensation Antonelli has been chosen by Toto Wolff to succeed Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes in 2025.

Despite his exceptional talent, it is yet to be determined how Antonelli will adjust to Formula 1.

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"We're uncertain about Mercedes' position in the rankings. Over the last few seasons, they have been inconsistent and haven't secured a clear standing," Lewis Larkam mentioned on the Crash F1 podcast.

"They haven't consistently maintained championship-level seasons, occasionally showing strong performances such as those in Vegas. However, they couldn't provide any reasoning for their success during those times."

"If this trend extends into 2025, which I expect it will at least initially, setting a specific target for Antonelli becomes challenging."

According to Toto Wolff, it seems unlikely that they will establish any particular objectives to reach.

"He has shown a strong desire to minimize the buzz surrounding Antonelli."

Kimi is likely to aim for podium finishes, victories, and pole positions, although it's uncertain if there will be a concrete goal established.

"Although there is some pressure involved, he should be allowed some room to breathe at the start."

"They are introducing an 18-year-old with a promising future ahead of him. They consider him to be their solution to a competitor like Max Verstappen."

"I don't think they'll simply get rid of him if he begins slowly or fails to meet the anticipated expectations."

Mercedes may prefer that he stays unnoticed and avoids any accidents, instead of delivering standout performances that are expected to develop over time.

'Kimi Antonelli Expected to Show Impressive Speed'

Connor McDonagh remarked, "This is an opportune year for Antonelli to come on board. The pivotal year is 2026. Toto has mentioned that the atmosphere within the team is positive as they prepare for the introduction of new engines."

Antonelli will spend the year gaining knowledge and experience.

"We'll witness his natural speed, but it's possible to enhance it by managing the tires effectively."

In his rookie season, Charles Leclerc showed impressive speed when competing against Sebastian Vettel. By his second year, he had significantly enhanced his ability to manage his tyres.

Lewis Larkam further stated, "In his debut season, Oscar Piastri was undeniably fast, but he has made progress in terms of maintaining consistency and managing his tires effectively."

"The situation will be comparable for Antonelli."

"Bringing him on board at this moment is perfect for Mercedes, as there's not as much pressure. The team is taking a long-term approach with Antonelli."

"They view him as the key to their future success. Right now, he has the opportunity to learn and err before the team is competing for a championship, a time when the pressure and expectations will be much higher."

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Key Ferrari advancement spotted that signals promise for Lewis Hamilton

Sebastian Vettel's old curse might be ending at last

Reports suggest that Ferrari's recently developed skill in enhancing their car's performance mid-season may benefit Lewis Hamilton.

In recent years, the Italian company has struggled to make beneficial improvements to its machine amidst the intense competition of development battles.

Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz managed to recover from a challenging time last year, suggesting that Hamilton might be able to rely on Ferrari for the current season.

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According to Connor McDonagh on the Crash F1 podcast, a key achievement for Ferrari in the previous year was their ability to address and resolve their challenges during the season's development.

In Barcelona, their enhancements set them at a disadvantage, causing them to fall to the third or fourth fastest team. At Silverstone, Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc tested different setups.

"They moved past that challenge. They returned with an improved setup for Monza and achieved a surprising victory at COTA."

"They finished the season on a high note, demonstrating their ability to enhance their vehicle."

Has the Vettel Curse at Ferrari Come to an End?

Connor McDonagh observed that during Sebastian Vettel's time competing with Hamilton, the team's performance seemed to decline as the season progressed.

"There are many positive indicators for Ferrari. Bringing Hamilton on board means you must compete for the championship!"

A car capable of competing for the championship will also inspire Hamilton.

"Everything seems positive for Ferrari, yet McLaren holds an advantage regarding their vehicle."

"Naturally, you can't dismiss the possibility of Red Bull and Max Verstappen."

Last year, Ferrari secured victories at five Formula 1 grand prix events and ended the season in second place in the constructors' championship, following McLaren.

Hamilton has already dedicated a week in Maranello to familiarize himself with his new team before the start of the 2025 season.

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

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