Uncanny resemblance between Jorge Martin and Valentino Rossi suggests a possible first victory?

Experienced MotoGP insider shares his perspective from both sides

Jorge Martin becomes the first rider to switch manufacturers right after winning a MotoGP championship since Valentino Rossi did in late 2003.

In 2024, Martin claimed the championship riding for Pramac Ducati, but in 2025, he will be racing for Aprilia's official team.

He becomes just the sixth top-tier champion to start the following season with a different manufacturer.

In 1966, Mike Hailwood made the switch from MV Ag

In 1976, Giacomi Agostini made the switch from Yamaha to MV.

In 1982, Marco Lucchinelli switched from Suzuki to Honda.

In 1989, Eddie Lawson switched from Yamaha to Honda, and then returned to Yamaha in 1990.

Renowned racer Rossi made a bold move by leaving Honda, with whom he clinched the 2003 championship, to sign a contract with Yamaha, a team that wasn't widely acclaimed back then.

Honda prevented Rossi from trying out the Yamaha during the 2003 postseason test, causing him to postpone his eagerly awaited first appearance.

Rossi celebrated his first victory with Yamaha at Welkom and secured the 2004 championship with his new team.

Davide Brivio, who played a pivotal role in Rossi's move to Yamaha in 2004, currently serves as the boss of Trackhouse Aprilia, coinciding with Martin's transition to the brand's official racing team.

"Brivio noted that there appear to be parallels between Rossi and Martin's transitions."

"Valentino departed from Honda during their MotoGP reign, and now, as Ducati leads in MotoGP, Jorge is making his exit."

"Who can say?"

Is there a chance that Martin could triumph in his first race with Aprilia in Thailand, similar to Rossi's victory with Yamaha

Brivio responded, "Certainly, it's challenging, but why shouldn't we try?"

Brivio, who brings a wealth of experience, commented, "Ducati has an excellent alternative in Pecco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez.

"Thus, it's clear they will be a challenging team to defeat."

"As we approach 2025, it appears the playing field among manufacturers might become more even."

"The leading competitors are more evenly distributed, which enhances the entertainment value."

"Hopefully, Ducati did well in the entire MotoGP event."

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"It's important to recognize your own capabilities; my intensity doesn't match Pedro Acosta’s."

"The vigor these young talents exhibit is astounding!"

Pol Espargaro has shared his thoughts on his MotoGP racing career coming to an end, acknowledging that he lacks the "fire" Pedro Acosta possesses.

KTM decided to remove Espargaro from his position a year ago, relegating him to a test and reserve duty to accommodate Acosta.

Acosta impressed during his debut season and, come 2025, will ascend to the premier KTM factory team, justifying their choice to appoint him over Espargaro.

At 33 years old, Espargaro participated as a wild card in three races this season while continuing his duties as a KTM test rider and balancing his job as a commentator on Spanish TV.

"He shared, 'I've arrived at a point, a time in my existence, where I feel at ease.'"

"I maintain a strong physical condition in a manner that brings me pleasure. I appear on television, clarifying for viewers the complexities of these motorcycles, including their aerodynamic features and electronic systems."

"I listen to the feedback from the test team. Currently, I'm finding joy in my life."

"I overlooked it. Experiencing such a sensation is incredible, especially when you deliver a strong performance."

"Securing a 10th place finish in San Marino this year, especially after a chaotic, rain-soaked race? The sensation of landing in the top 10 in MotoGP, where the competition is incredibly fierce…

"No matter if I reach the age of 60 or 70, the sense of longing will always be there."

"However, it's important to recognize your own abilities. The intensity I bring to riding isn't equivalent to that of, say, Brad Binder, Maverick Vinales, or Pedro Acosta."

"The enthusiasm displayed by the younger members is incredible!"

"Please make way and allow them entry into the factory, as their performance will surpass yours."

Espargaro experienced a severe crash during the first race of 2023, sustaining major injuries to his back and jaw.

"After the accident, I understood that it wasn't solely about me anymore," he expressed.

"I have a spouse and two girls. It was agonizing not being able to play with my daughter at home due to experiencing back or arm pain."

"I gave Pedro a bit of room, and just look at what he's accomplishing! It's incredible."

KTM embraces 'contrasts'

By 2025, Espargaro will play a pivotal role in advancing KTM's development.

The producer is greeting Vinales and Enea Bastianini as they join the newly revamped Tech3 squad.

"Espargaro mentioned, 'Maverick is undoubtedly a fervent biker. He truly excels when pushing boundaries.'"

"He must genuinely experience it to succeed."

"Enea is entirely different. He maintains a more even, composed demeanor, leaving outcomes unpredictable.

"Working alongside these two individuals is a pleasure. They bring a wealth of experience to the table."

"Maverick has achieved victories on every motorcycle he has ridden in MotoGP, and it is hoped that joining KTM will be the next step towards contending for the championship title."

Enea has delivered exceptional performances over the last two years, excelling on both Saturdays and Sundays.

"They are quite distinct, originating from varied motorcycles. Specifically, two bikes from Italy."

"Let's work on enhancing the negatives while maintaining the positives."

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Dubbed as the frontrunner for 2025, hailed as an upcoming champion, and considered a top competitor likely to stumble

Forecast centered around Marc Marquez for the year 2025

Forecasts for the 2025 MotoGP season have been released, suggesting unfavorable outcomes for the reigning champion.

The rider roster for the 2025 MotoGP season sees significant changes, including titleholder Jorge Martin moving from Ducati to Aprilia.

Marc Marquez secures a move to a top-tier position with Ducati, joining forces with the team's leading rider, Pecco Bagnaia. Together, they form a formidable pair anticipated to compete at the forefront, likely challenging one another.

"Melandri sees Marquez as the top competitor," he shared with GPOne.

Whenever his presence is required, he shows up. He avoids errors, and even if a situation goes awry, he manages to correct it.

"He has a higher number of accidents compared to his peers, but he strategically makes those mistakes during practice sessions."

"The GP23 significantly trailed the GP24, yet it outperformed all competitors riding last year's model. This is a crucial measure of comparison."

If Martin outperforms him, it might serve as motivation for Pecco, encouraging him to retaliate. At the same time, it could reveal to him that he is vulnerable to defeat.

"Nonetheless, I believe Marc will receive his just benefits."

Melandri thinks champion Martin will face consequences for choosing the less formidable Aprilia to compete with.

"Melandri stated that it would not happen next year."

"Frankly, I doubt they have the ability to bridge the extensive gap with Ducati, or at least manage to do so over the course of a season."

"The previous victory for Aprilia occurred in Barcelona, with the Desmosedici finishing narrowly behind."

"Jorge isn't in the same league as Maverick Vinales or Aleix Espargaro, but I wouldn't anticipate him contending for victories."

Melandri believes Pedro Acosta is destined for stardom in MotoGP, though likely not by 2025.

Inquired about Acosta's potential to compete this year, Melandri responded, “Should the motorcycle see enhancements, certainly.

Currently, KTM is not experiencing its best period overall, so challenges are expected.

"In my view, he represents what's to come."

Melandri commented on Acosta, stating, "Having Vinales and Enea Bastianini as teammates, we'll be able to gauge his performance."

"If he possessed a Ducati, he'd likely be contending for the lead already."

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Valentino Rossi shares joyous personal update

The Doctor reveals uplifting news to his fans

Valentino Rossi has shared joyful family updates to begin the New Year.

The renowned MotoGP star and his partner Francesca celebrated the arrival of their second daughter on Saturday, January 4.

Gabriella's entry expands the Rossi family even more. Two years prior, he and Francesca welcomed Giulietta, their initial daughter, into their lives.

Check out this Instagram update from FRANCESCA SOFIA (@francescasofianovello)

An Instagram update shared by FRANCESCA SOFIA (@francescasofianovello)

At 45 years old, Rossi has reached his fourth year of retirement from MotoGP as of 2025.

He continues his racing career, now on four wheels. In 2025, he is anticipated to participate in the World Endurance Championship and the GT World Challenge Europe series.

Rossi has joined the BMW racing team and might participate in the 24 Hours of Le Mans once more.

This month, he is set to hold his yearly 100km of Champions event at his ranch located in Tavullia.

The classic event unites racers from MotoGP, World Superbikes, and the Isle of Man TT in a one-of-a-kind race.

Rossi might have a stronger presence in MotoGP by 2025.

The VR46 squad is set to be Ducati's leading satellite team, with one of their factory bikes being ridden by Fabio di Giannantonio.

Francesco Bagnaia, a pupil of Rossi who was dethroned as MotoGP champion by Jorge Martin in the previous season, is set to encounter a new competitor as Marc Marquez joins him as a team member.

Marquez, a longtime competitor of Rossi, aims to match The Doctor's record of nine world championships this season.

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Valentino Rossi shares delightful personal update

The famous racer has some uplifting news to reveal

Valentino Rossi has shared some joyful family news to begin the New Year.

On Saturday, January 4, the famous MotoGP racer and his partner Francesca celebrated the birth of their second daughter.

The Rossi family has expanded with the addition of Gabriella. Two years ago, he and Francesca welcomed their first daughter, Giulietta.

Check out this Instagram post from Francesca Sofia, which has been shared on her account, @francescasofianovello.

Valentino Rossi in 2025

At 45 years old, Rossi is now in his fourth year after stepping away from MotoGP racing.

He continues his career in racing, now focusing on four-wheeled vehicles. In 2025, he is anticipated to participate in the World Endurance Championship and the GT World Challenge Europe series.

Rossi has joined BMW as a driver and might participate in the 24 Hours of Le Mans once more.

Towards the end of this month, he is set to organize his yearly 100-kilometer Champions event at his ranch located in Tavullia.

The classic event unites motorcycle competitors from MotoGP, World Superbikes, and the Isle of Man TT for a one-of-a-kind race.

Rossi might have a greater presence in MotoGP come 2025.

The VR46 team is set to become the leading satellite team for Ducati and will have one factory motorcycle. Fabio di Giannantonio is slated to be the rider for this bike.

Francesco Bagnaia, who was guided by Rossi and lost his MotoGP championship title to Jorge Martin in the previous season, is set to encounter a new challenge as Marc Marquez joins his team as a fellow rider.

Marquez, who has long been a competitor of Rossi, aims to match The Doctor's record of nine world championships this season.

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"The individual expected to dominate in 2025, a prospective champion, and a significant competitor predicted to fall short

Forecast concerning Marc Marquez offered for 2025"

Predictions for the MotoGP season in 2025 have been released, suggesting potential challenges for the reigning champion.

The 2025 MotoGP season will see significant changes in its roster, as champion Jorge Martin transitions from Ducati to Aprilia.

Marc Marquez moves up from his year-old Ducati to a factory position, joining the team alongside their standout rider, Pecco Bagnaia. The pair are anticipated to compete at the top, likely contending with one another.

"According to Marco Melandri, Marquez is the one everyone will need to surpass," reported GPOne.

"When attendance is required, he's present. He avoids errors, and even if things don't go smoothly, he manages to correct them."

"He tends to have more crashes compared to others, but he usually does so during practice sessions when it doesn't impact his performance significantly."

The GP23 lagged behind the GP24, yet no other competitor managed to surpass him using the previous year's model. This serves as a significant benchmark.

If Martin manages to outperform him, it might serve as a motivation for Pecco to react positively. Additionally, it may also provide Pecco with the understanding that he can be defeated.

Nonetheless, I believe Marc will enjoy the benefits of his efforts.

Jorge Martin excluded

Melandri thinks that champion Martin will face consequences for moving to the less competitive Aprilia team.

Melandri stated, "Not in the coming year."

"I truly doubt they can narrow the large gap with Ducati, especially not within a single season."

The previous victory for Aprilia occurred in Barcelona, although the Desmosedici was not far behind.

"Jorge is distinct from Maverick Vinales and Aleix Espargaro, but I don't anticipate him competing for victory."

Emerging MotoGP Talent: Acosta's Rise Anticipated

Pedro Acosta is expected to shine in the MotoGP scene, though Melandri believes his breakthrough might not occur until after 2025.

When questioned about Acosta's potential to compete this year, Melandri responded, "Yes, if there are enhancements to the bike."

Currently, KTM is not experiencing a particularly successful period overall, so the situation is challenging.

"In my view, he represents what lies ahead."

Melandri commented on Acosta's abilities, noting that having Vinales and Enea Bastianini in the team will help gauge how skilled he really is.

"If he owned a Ducati, he would be competing at the forefront."

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"It's important to recognize your own abilities; my intensity isn't on the same level as Pedro Acosta's."

"The enthusiasm and drive that the younger generation exhibits are incredible!"

Pol Espargaro has looked back on his time in MotoGP as his racing career approaches its end, acknowledging that he lacks the same intensity as Pedro Acosta.

A year ago, KTM decided to remove the experienced racer Espargaro from their main lineup, assigning him to a testing and reserve position to open up a spot for Acosta.

In his debut season, Acosta impressed everyone and, come 2025, he will advance to the factory KTM squad, justifying their choice to substitute him for Espargaro.

At 33 years old, Espargaro participated in three races this season as a wild card entry while continuing to serve as a test rider for KTM. Additionally, he balances this with his responsibilities as a broadcaster on Spanish TV.

He expressed that he has arrived at a point in his life where he feels at ease.

"I maintain my physical fitness in a way that I find enjoyable. I also discuss on television to help viewers understand the complexities of these bikes, which involve intricate aerodynamics and electronics."

"I listen to the feedback from the test team. I'm currently having a good time in my life."

"I didn't catch it. It's a wonderful sensation, particularly when you achieve a positive outcome."

"Ending up in 10th place at the San Marino race this year, especially after a chaotic, rain-soaked event? Achieving a top 10 position in MotoGP, given the intense level of competition…"

"I will still long for it, even when I reach the age of 60 or 70."

"You have to recognize your own capabilities. My intensity when riding a bike doesn't match that of Brad Binder, Maverick Vinales, or Pedro Acosta."

"The enthusiasm and vigor that the younger individuals contribute are incredible!"

"You should allow them to enter the factory, as they are likely to outperform you."

During the first race of the 2023 season, Espargaro experienced a severe accident, resulting in significant injuries to his back and jaw.

"Following the accident, he understood it was no longer solely about him," he stated.

"I have a wife and two daughters. It was difficult to be at home and unable to hold my daughter because of the pain in my back or arms."

"I gave Pedro an opportunity, and just see how incredible he is!"

KTM embraces 'contrasts'

By the year 2025, Espargaro will play a vital role in shaping the future of KTM.

The company is introducing Vinales and Enea Bastianini as part of their revamped Tech3 squad.

According to Espargaro, Maverick is an enthusiastic motorcyclist who excels when pushing boundaries.

"For him to succeed, he must truly experience it."

"Enea is entirely different. He is more level-headed and composed, making it unpredictable to foresee his actions."

"It's enjoyable to collaborate with these two individuals. They bring a wealth of experience."

Maverick has achieved victories on every motorcycle he has ridden in MotoGP, and the hope is that this move will allow him to compete for the championship with a KTM.

Over the last two years, Enea has delivered impressive performances, excelling both on Saturdays and Sundays.

"They are quite distinct, originating from two separate Italian motorcycles."

"There are advantages and disadvantages; let's work on enhancing the disadvantages while preserving the advantages."

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Intriguing Parallels Between Jorge Martin and Valentino Rossi Suggest First Victory?

Seasoned MotoGP Racer, Connected to Both Camps, Shares His Perspective

Jorge Martin has become the latest MotoGP champion to switch manufacturers right after winning the title, a feat last accomplished by Valentino Rossi back in 2003.

In 2024, Martin secured the championship title while racing for Pramac Ducati, but he is set to join the official Aprilia team in 2025.

He is just the sixth top-tier champion to start the following year with a different brand.

In 1966, Mike Hailwood made the transition from riding for

In 1976, Giacomi Agostini made a switch from Yamaha to MV.

In 1982, Marco Lucchinelli made a transition from Suzuki to Honda

In 1989, Eddie Lawson switched from racing for Yamaha to joining Honda, but he returned to Yamaha in 1990.

In a well-known move, Rossi left Honda following his 2003 championship victory to sign with Yamaha, a team that wasn't very highly regarded back then.

Rossi was unable to test the Yamaha at the end of the 2003 season because Honda restricted him, postponing his eagerly awaited first appearance.

Rossi secured a victory at Welkom in his first race riding for Yamaha and went on to clinch the 2004 championship with his new team.

In 2004, Davide Brivio was instrumental in bringing Rossi to Yamaha. Currently, he is the head of Trackhouse Aprilia as Martin becomes part of the factory team of the manufacturer.

Brivio commented that there are resemblances between the actions of Rossi and Martin if you consider the situation.

"Back then, Valentino departed from Honda while they were leading in MotoGP. Similarly, Jorge is now exiting Ducati as they currently dominate the MotoGP scene."

"Therefore, it's uncertain."

Is it possible for Martin to secure a victory in his first race with Aprilia in Thailand, similar to Rossi's initial win

Brivio responded by saying, "Certainly, it's challenging, but why shouldn't we try?"

The highly experienced Brivio commented: "Ducati has a strong alternative plan with Pecco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez."

"Naturally, they are a team that poses a significant challenge to overcome."

"As we approach 2025, it appears that there might be a more even distribution among manufacturers."

"The leading riders are more evenly distributed, which benefits the event."

"Ducati is expected to have performed well for the entire MotoGP event."

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A specific instance was identified in the 2024 MotoGP season where KTM missed the opportunity to remain competitive at the forefront.

Despite kicking off the season on a high note, KTM ended up going through another season without securing a win in the premier class.

The 2024 MotoGP campaign kicked off on a high note for KTM, yet concluded without the Austrian manufacturer securing any victories.

KTM's streak without a win stretches further, tracing back to Miguel Oliveira's victory at the 2022 Thai Grand Prix more than two years ago (or to Jerez 2023 if Sprint races are taken into account).

Despite starting the season on a high note, with Brad Binder and newcomer to the 2024 MotoGP, Pedro Acosta, both securing podium finishes in the season's initial races, the Austrian team maintained their momentum.

"Francesco Guidotti, the former team principal for Red Bull KTM, shared with MotoGP.com that the team kicked off the season on a high note, achieving podium finishes with various riders, which significantly raised their expectations."

Starting from the halfway point, we faced some challenges and perhaps took a few paths that weren't ideal for us; the leading competitors slightly enhanced their performance, which further widened the gap between us.

"During the middle of the season, we experienced an unusual period, which I believe was when we missed the opportunity to remain in contention at the forefront."

Despite facing challenges in 2024 that led to his dismissal, Guidotti had no grievances regarding the behavior of the riders from the Austrian brand, KTM.

"I believe the approach taken by the riders was appropriate; they remained persistent, and so did we, both the technicians and the management. However, truth be told, we weren't exactly in the right mindset to compete. Therefore, we needed to go back to the drawing board and begin anew."

Towards the end of the season, KTM consistently led the pack despite a few accidents and mishaps, but generally, they performed well.

"'Somewhat okay' isn't our ideal, but it's our current reality. We overlooked numerous opportunities, numerous possibilities at the start of this year, and when you skip out on those, you end up missing out on success, you face defeat."

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Alex became a part of the Crash.net crew in August 2024 after spending two years reporting on consumer and racing motorcycle news for Visordown.

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Crash examines five MotoGP competitors requiring a standout 2025 season

The lineup for the 2025 MotoGP season features an impressive collection of talent, including 15 riders who have previously won premier class grand prix races.

Top performers are well-distributed among all five manufacturers, with numerous notable transfers occurring – such as Marc Marquez joining the Ducati factory team, 2024 world champion Jorge Martin moving to Aprilia, and Maverick Vinales switching to KTM.

Heading into 2025, several athletes find themselves in a position where they must demonstrate their worth, be it due to contractual obligations or other motivating factors.

Crash examines five racers facing a crucial season ahead.

Jack Miller – Pramac Yamaha

Entering his 10th season in the top tier in 2025, Miller's move back to Pramac, coinciding with their transition to Yamaha, comes after an underwhelming last season with KTM. For the Australian, this shift to Pramac appears to be a serendipitous twist, largely influenced by location.

Keep in mind, a few newcomers were considered for the second Pramac position, among them Sergio Garcia, whose chance was ultimately dismissed due to his Spanish nationality.

Miller's nationality as an Australian isn't the only factor for his comeback to Pramac. At 29, his record includes race victories and a wealth of experience that Yamaha will find extremely beneficial.

However, his record shows only a single victory over the past three years, and he concluded 2024 without securing any top-three finishes, his highest being two fifth-place finishes in grand prix races. Additionally, he finished 204 points behind his teammate Brad Binder. Miller was particularly affected by the challenges KTM faced due to the vibration problems stemming from Michelin's 2024 rear tyre.

However, Binder and Pedro Acosta demonstrated that impressive outcomes could be achieved with the RC16, and Miller fell significantly behind in comparison.

Heading into the 2025 season on a single-year contract, and with a new generation of talent eager to step up from Moto2, it appears this year could be crucial for Miller's career.

His main focus will be to advance the progress of the M1, but he will also be expected to achieve results if his peers begin to succeed. Should this not occur, the limited availability on the 2026 grid might result in Miller being left out.

Franco Morbidelli, who rides for VR46 Ducati, appears to be the safest in terms of retaining his position for the 2026 season. Unless Celestino Vietti delivers an exceptional performance in Moto2, the VR46 Academy lacks a clear successor deemed ready for MotoGP. Additionally, it's uncertain if Ducati is considering elevating any of its riders.

At the age of 30 and entering his eighth year in MotoGP, there's a concern that Morbidelli might only be viewed as filling a spot.

Following his achievement of securing three grand prix victories in 2020 and achieving second place in the overall championship standings, Morbidelli has experienced a decline in performance. His challenges began with an outdated Yamaha model at the beginning of 2021, which did little to aid his performance, and were compounded by a leg injury that sidelined him. Upon his return, he was provided with a top-tier Yamaha bike, which he struggled to adapt to and perform well on.

During his tenure of over two years with the factory Yamaha team, his top achievement was a fourth-place finish. For the 2024 season, he secured a coveted factory Ducati spot with Pramac. However, his adjustment was hindered by a concussion he suffered before the season started.

During the early part of 2024, despite facing challenges, Morbidelli demonstrated moments of quick pace, such as taking the lead in the German race, securing a podium finish in the Sprint at the San Marino Grand Prix, and being in contention for another podium spot before experiencing a crash the following day.

Considering his superior equipment, it would have been expected for Morbidelli to secure several additional podium finishes during the latter part of the season. The availability of an extra spot at VR46 meant Morbidelli's position was secure, yet this situation should be seen merely as a stroke of luck.

Should the improvement from the GP24 to the GP25 not be as significant as it was the previous year, Morbidelli must capitalize on this edge during the initial races to return to his known performance level.

Brad Binder is currently tied to KTM under a contract that runs until 2026. However, there are a couple of reasons why he's included in this list.

Currently, there's a cloud of doubt surrounding the Austrian brand due to its economic difficulties and ongoing overhaul. Should the KTM endeavor collapse and prove irretrievable, four leading riders would be left scrambling for a spot in an already crowded field. It's fair to mention that Pedro Acosta might have the edge over his competitors in such a scenario.

Since joining the MotoGP circuit, Binder has reliably performed for KTM, maintaining his form through the previous season. Despite achieving podium finishes solely in the season's first race, his regular placements within the top eight and just a couple of instances where he didn't score points in races he participated in, significantly contributed to KTM securing the second spot in the constructors championship.

He concluded the year as the leading KTM rider, edging out newcomer Acosta by a mere two points. When it came to maximizing the performance of the RC16, Acosta frequently achieved this, despite his need to improve his conversion rate.

Potentially, 2025 marks the inaugural year in MotoGP where Binder faces a team-mate who truly challenges his skills. Thus, this will be our first opportunity to witness Binder being put through his paces. Consequently, this situation brings up an unresolved inquiry: What is the true caliber of Brad Binder's talent?

Though his circumstances aren't as dire as certain individuals in the lineup, the direction of his professional path could significantly depend on his performance alongside Acosta in the 2025 season.

Luca Marini – Honda

Marini's contract timing doesn't align with the typical schedule for factory agreements, as his deal with Honda extends through the conclusion of 2025.

Currently, Honda isn't experiencing a high demand from riders eager to join its team. However, this situation is subject to change as the company makes progress up the racing grid. Should Honda achieve greater advancements by 2025, it may aim to attract a more prominent rider to its lineup.

Currently, amidst the challenges KTM is experiencing, there's significant speculation around Acosta becoming a key focus. Naturally, it makes sense for Honda to consider this option. Joan Mir has committed through 2026 despite facing difficulties, and Johann Zarco is likely to secure a renewal due to his impressive performance in 2024.

Marini was unable to secure any points in the initial eight races, and this streak would have stretched to nine if a penalty hadn't elevated him to 15th place. After another four races without earning points, he finally scored his first legitimate points during the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

Despite showing improved performance in the latter part of the year, he ended up at the bottom of the rankings among those who competed throughout the entire season.

Anticipating miraculous performances from Marc Marquez's successor at Honda was unreasonable. However, there's a specific level of performance that factory riders must achieve, and Marini must demonstrate this by 2025 to sustain his professional trajectory.

Francesco Bagnaia's position with Ducati is secure. His contract extends through 2026, and given his outstanding performance, it would take a significant justification for Ducati not to continue their partnership with the two-time world champion beyond then.

However, he is encountering the most challenging phase of his MotoGP journey, as Marc Marquez joins the official Ducati team in 2025.

Heading into the upcoming season, Bagnaia has an impressive record of 11 Grand Prix victories in 2024, yet fell short of clinching the championship, finishing 10 points behind Jorge Martin, a season marked by eight instances where he didn't score. His journey over recent years has been marred by errors, a challenge that will only intensify with Marquez joining as his teammate.

Securing three wins in his debut season on a Ducati with an older GP23 model, Marquez is undoubtedly set to challenge Bagnaia significantly.

Marquez's successful maneuver to secure a spot on the factory Ducati team altered the dynamics of power. Bagnaia's situation is made even more challenging by not entering the year 2025 as the defending world champion.

Bagnaia's rapid pace and his position as one of the current top competitors is undeniable. However, Marquez, given the same equipment, will push him to his limits. The outcome of this challenge could very well shape his professional legacy.

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Valentino Rossi announces an impressive lineup for the 100Km of Champions race

Rossi, joined by Michael Dunlop and Pedro Acosta, highlights a star-studded roster for the event in Tavullia

The 100Km of Champions flat track race, hosted at Valentino Rossi's ranch in Tavullia, is set to present an impressive lineup in 2025, with racers such as Pedro Acosta and Michael Dunlop slated to participate.

For more than a decade, the yearly gathering at Rossi's VR46 Ranch has been organized by the MotoGP icon, attracting top talents from various motorcycle racing categories.

The upcoming 2025 version is scheduled for January 10th and 11th, and the list of participants for this occasion will be made public on Friday.

Leading the event as always is the nine-time grand prix world champion Rossi, with the MotoGP rookie star of 2024, Pedro Acosta, also participating.

In the world of MotoGP, two-time world champion and VR46 Academy affiliate Francesco Bagnaia will make an appearance, joined by Enea Bastianini, Marco Bezzecchi, Augusto Fernandez, Luca Marini, Franco Morbidelli, and Miguel Oliveira.

In other grand prix categories, racers such as Xavi Artigas, Manu Gonzalez, and Tatsuki Suzuki will compete.

Michael Dunlop, the most accomplished rider in Isle of Man TT history, will participate, alongside Davey Todd, the victor of the Senior TT.

Ryan Vickers and Tim Neave team up with fellow British Superbike paddock member Todd, as Nicolo Bulega and Dominique Aegerter represent the World Superbikes contingent.

Last year, Marini and Rossi claimed victory in the premier team race, with Marini also securing a win in the Americana competition.

Complete list of participants:

Valentino Rossi, Pedro Acosta, Dominique Aegerter, Xavier Artigas, Francesco Bagnaia, Lorenzo Baldassarri, Elia Bartolini, Enea Bastianini, James Douglas Beach, Marco Belli, Matteo Bertelle, Marco Bezzecchi, Nicolo Bulega, Federico Caricasulo, Mattia Casadei, Thomas Chareyre, Davey Todd, Michael Dunlop, Filippo Fuligini, Federico Fuligni, Matteo Gabarrini, Manu Gonzalez, Sammy Halbert, Kurvinen Lasse, Andrea Locatelli, Luca Lunetta, Andrea Mantovani, Luca Marini, Andrea Migno, Franco Morbidelli, Diogo Moreira, Stefano Nepa, Miguel Oliveira, Luca Ottaviani, Mattia Pasini, Matteo Patacca, Gautier Paulin, Tito Rabat, Jose Antonio Rueda, Alberto Surra, Tatsuki Suzuki, Tim Neave, Ryan Vickers.

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KTM identified a crucial MotoGP moment that marked their missed opportunity to remain competitive at the top. Despite beginning the 2024 MotoGP season on a strong note, KTM ended yet another year without securing a victory in the premier class.

The 2024 MotoGP season for KTM began on a high note; however, the Austrian company concluded the season without securing any victories.

KTM's struggle to secure a victory persists, with their last win dating back to Miguel Oliveira's success at the 2022 Thai Grand Prix, which was over two years ago. Alternatively, if Sprint races are taken into account, their last win was at Jerez in 2023.

Despite starting the season on a high note, the Austrian manufacturer saw both Brad Binder and 2024 MotoGP newcomer Pedro Acosta secure podium finishes in the initial races.

Francesco Guidotti, the former team principal of Red Bull KTM, shared with MotoGP.com that they had a strong beginning, achieving several podium finishes with various riders, which set high expectations.

"Starting from the middle of the season, we faced some difficulties as we took some paths that might not have been ideal for us. Meanwhile, the key competitors improved slightly, which widened the gap even further."

"There was a peculiar period during the middle of the season, and I believe that's when we missed our opportunity to remain near the top."

Even though KTM faced challenges in 2024 that eventually led to him losing his position, Guidotti had nothing negative to say about how the riders from the Austrian brand behaved.

The riders displayed commendable behavior by persistently pushing forward. Similarly, our team, including technicians and management, maintained their determination. However, we must admit that we weren't really in the competitive mindset. It became necessary for us to go back to the beginning and restart the process.

Towards the end of the season, KTM consistently performed well, despite experiencing a few crashes and incidents. Overall, their performance was quite solid.

"We're aiming for better than 'not too bad,' but that's our current reality. At the start of the year, we let too many opportunities slip by, and as a result, we didn't perform well and ended up losing."

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In August 2024, Alex became a part of the Crash.net staff after spending two years reporting on motorcycle news for both consumers and racing enthusiasts at Visordown.

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