Gigi Dall’Igna: “This is what makes racing exciting” | Ducati experiences both victory and defeat

The general manager of Ducati Corse shares his thoughts on Jorge Martin's championship win and Francesco Bagnaia's loss.

Jorge Martin's victory in Barcelona on Sunday marked Ducati's third consecutive MotoGP rider's championship, a triumph that likely brought a mix of emotions.

Although Ducati celebrated a victory with Martin and the Pramac team, they faced a setback with defending champion Francesco Bagnaia and the official Lenovo team.

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Adding to the complexity of the situation, Ducati rejected Martin as Bagnaia’s teammate for the upcoming season, opting instead for Marc Marquez. As a result, Martin, along with what is likely the #1 plate, is heading to Aprilia.

Ducati deserves recognition for maintaining equal support for Martin's bid for the title, alongside Bagnaia, right up to the final moments, defying the predictions of numerous observers.

This involved stopping any more technical improvements, particularly a 2025 chassis that Bagnaia favored during the Misano test, in order to prevent affecting the competition among the riders.

In fact, between the two of them, it was Bagnaia who faced a race-ending technical issue at Le Mans.

However, it is the seven instances where the Italian did not score any points, along with two additional races where he earned only 1 or 2 points, that will be the most significant factors during the off-season. This comes after a year in which Bagnaia secured victory in eleven grand prix events, won seven sprints, yet ended up ten points behind Martin.

The initial comments from Dall’Igna were directed towards Martin, a racer he recruited from KTM's Moto2 team to make his first appearance on a Desmosedici in 2021.

Since joining Pramac, Martin has achieved significant success, securing eight grand prix victories. He finished in second place behind Bagnaia last season and made history by becoming the first satellite rider to win the MotoGP world championship.

Dall’Igna characterized Martin’s season as almost flawless.

Gigi Dall'Igna commented that, despite the apparent simplicity on paper, Jorge Martín executed an excellent performance by maintaining his composure and securing the championship following an almost flawless season.

"I want to extend my congratulations to him and express my gratitude for once more bringing a Desmosedici GP to the pinnacle of success."

Addressing his own champion who faced defeat, Dall’Igna suggested that there were lost chances this season, but remarked that “this is the beauty of racing.”

"Pecco has delivered outstanding performances throughout the year, clearly demonstrating his exceptional talent. However, racing can be unpredictable, and outcomes don't always align with our hopes. This uncertainty is what makes the sport so exciting."

Ducati is saying goodbye not only to Martin and Bagnaia's teammate, Enea Bastianini, but also to the Pramac team, which will transition to Yamaha starting in 2025.

Dall’Igna expressed gratitude towards Enea for their two seasons together and expressed joy that Enea managed to showcase his full potential again after what was undoubtedly a challenging year in 2024.

Expressing admiration for the collaboration with Pramac, Dall’Igna remarked: “Winning today is, or perhaps more importantly, the perfect way to bid farewell to Pramac Racing, an incredible team of experts we've collaborated with seamlessly for two decades. A heartfelt embrace goes to each member, beginning with our dear friend Paolo Campinoti.”

In 2024, Ducati experienced an exceptional year, setting new records for both wins and podium finishes. The highlight was having eight Desmosedici GP bikes lead the way in the Sprint Race in Thailand.

"I would like to express my gratitude to everyone at Ducati Corse for their dedicated and passionate efforts, which have led to the outstanding achievement we are celebrating today. Go Ducati!"

Marc Marquez is set to join Bagnaia for his first appearance with the factory Ducati team during the post-race test on Tuesday.

"It's time to celebrate now, before we begin getting ready for the upcoming season. Our aim is to keep improving and maintain our status as the leading constructors in MotoGP," Dall'Igna stated in conclusion.

For two decades, Peter has been involved in the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is currently leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure and the injury challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

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Jorge Martin expressed, "I was plagued with doubts, thinking 'Becoming a MotoGP champion is beyond my reach'."

"The reality hasn't sunk in yet, I'm utterly astonished!"

Jorge Martin etched his name in history by becoming the first Independent rider to clinch a title in the MotoGP era, following a nail-biting season finale in Barcelona this past Sunday.

The star rider from Pramac Ducati secured Spain's fifth championship in the premier class, clinching it with a third-place finish, in an event where his main competitor and two-time defending champion, Francesco Bagnaia from the official Ducati team, took first place.

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"It's unbelievable, I'm still processing it!" Martin exclaimed, just after stepping off the victory stand. "I'm overwhelmed with feelings; there have been so many tears!"

"Now, I'm looking forward to reveling in this moment with my team, loved ones, and companions."

"The path has been extensive. My professional life wasn't simple. Certainly, there were favorable chances, but in my view, I created them. I put in a lot of effort and made numerous sacrifices."

"During the previous season, the chance was there for me, but I believe I wasn't ready to finalize the agreement, so to speak. However, this year, I sensed it was the right time for me."

"I'm grateful to Pramac and Ducati for providing me with an incredible motorcycle over these past four years, allowing me the chance to compete at my best until the very end alongside the remarkable Pecco."

Martin: It truly frightened me!

Martin's steady performance throughout the season required him to finish no lower than ninth, despite Bagnaia potentially securing his eleventh grand prix victory of the year.

However, achieving that is more difficult in practice, particularly since all three options for the rear tires were feasible for the 24-lap race.

"Today's conditions posed a challenge, making the selection of tyres a tough decision. The riders were split among hard, soft, and medium options, which truly had me worried."

"Observing the competitors, I thought to myself, ‘amazing, they're all skilled’. Honestly, landing in tenth place is quite feasible if they all perform well. Anyone in the top ten could realistically excel."

Bagnaia and second-place finisher Marc Marquez chose the soft rear tire, while Martin, despite earlier suggesting he might follow Bagnaia's lead, remained committed to his choice of the medium tire.

"He admitted, "I felt fearful, yet ultimately decided that opting for the medium was the safest bet in terms of tyre selection. It was challenging, perhaps the soft tyre would have offered a slight edge in performance, but I managed to pull it off."

"I simply believed in my abilities. I was quite confident that despite having the 'least favorable' tire, I could still make it into the top nine, and I was truly concentrated on that goal."

"Today was thrilling as I experienced the race, feeling the closeness, almost as if I were brushing elbows and shoulders, reminiscent of supermoto training, but this time with a MotoGP! I'm truly elated to have savored that moment."

Yet, as he approached the pinnacle of his career, a wealth of emotions enveloped him.

"I believe that even in a standard race, such as one in May at this location, I would have ended up in third place since Marc and Pecco had the upper hand. I gave it my all. However, without a doubt, the final 7 laps presented more of a challenge."

I began recalling numerous memories. It felt as though my entire career was flashing before my eyes. I thought of my father, spending weekends training me after his work, my mother preparing meals during my pocket bike races, and my grandfather, who has passed away, observing from above.

"However, I found myself constantly realigning my focus, aiming to stay present: 'Jorge, the task isn't complete until you've crossed the finish line. You have to see this through.' By the time I was on the final lap, tears were already starting to form, overwhelmed by emotion."

The jubilation seen now is a dramatic change from the year's start.

Martin: "I was facing difficulties with my mental well-being."

"The 26-year-old, who did not succeed against Bagnaia in the final race of last season, mentioned, "I was truly facing challenges with my mental well-being."

The previous season ended on a high note for me. Despite securing the runner-up position, I remained quite content. However, come January, a wave of anxiety hit me hard. I found myself plagued with doubts, genuinely fearing that a MotoGP championship title might forever elude me.

"Gratitude to my coach, my skills enhanced significantly. My attention shifted towards the aspiration of victory rather than the dread of defeat."

"If I'm defeated, that's alright, I'm not perishing. Existence doesn't cease.

"I carried a strong sense of optimism about securing a victory. This wasn't just for my own sake, but also for my team, my community, and my family. This belief greatly supported me."

Martin has Sunday to enjoy himself before he embarks on his journey as a factory Aprilia rider, with his first appearance scheduled at the Barcelona circuit on Tuesday.

"Martin expressed optimism about his future, considering it a gift following this experience. He committed to striving for excellence and aiming for victory with Aprilia, while also cherishing the present moment."

For two decades, Peter has witnessed the motorsport landscape evolve, including Valentino Rossi's illustrious career from start to finish. He's leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure from the scene and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with his injuries.

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Pramac and Yamaha have confirmed their collaboration on a new Moto2 project, set to debut in 2025 with Tony Arbolino and Izan Guevara as the riders.

As Pramac Yamaha prepares for its MotoGP debut during the Barcelona test on Tuesday, official information about the new Moto2 collaboration has also been revealed.

The former Yamaha VR46 Master Camp initiative has been succeeded by the Pramac Yamaha Moto2 team, which will now feature multiple race victor Tony Arbolino and past Moto3 world champion Izan Guevara.

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The builder of the chassis has not been officially announced, but there are speculations about Boscoscuro, the team that secured the championship this year with Ai Ogura.

The team is set to participate for the first time in the official Moto2 winter test, scheduled for February 7-8, 2025, in Valencia.

Yamaha Racing's managing director, Lin Jarvis, expressed excitement about the immediate extension of Yamaha's partnership with Pramac to include the Moto2 class starting in 2025.

The establishment of the Pramac Yamaha Moto2 Team demonstrates Yamaha's commitment to developing emerging racers and helping them progress through competitive levels, as well as the company's ambition to reclaim a leading position in MotoGP.

Tony Arbolino and Izan Guevara have been announced as the impressive rider duo for the newly established Moto2 team, bringing together a blend of skills, talent, and promise. We are eager to watch their progress as we work on strengthening Yamaha's future position in MotoGP. "I am thrilled to become a part of Pramac and Yamaha's new Moto2 initiative," expressed Arbolino, the former Marc VDS rider, who has recently been associated with a potential move to MotoGP.

"I have consistently admired Yamaha for what they stand for as a brand and their historical significance."

Additionally, I have complete confidence in Pramac's ability to assist me in improving as a rider. I am committed to giving my utmost effort to achieve the best results possible. Winning the Moto2 championship is our objective.

"I am grateful for their confidence in me."

This year, Guevara achieved his inaugural Moto2 podium with the Aspar team and is set to reunite with Pramac team manager Gino Borsoi.

“I’m thrilled to begin this new phase in my life. I’m joining a team that feels like a family, and they are the current MotoGP World Champions,” Guevara stated.

I am eager to collaborate once more with Gino Borsoi, one of the individuals who played a crucial role in my journey to becoming a World Champion. I am familiar with several team members, which assures me that our cooperation will be seamless.

First and foremost, I wish to express my gratitude to Pramac and Yamaha for the chance to compete with them in 2025. I am confident that we will accomplish many great things together. This new venture and the project I will be a part of are truly inspiring to me.

On Tuesday, Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira are set to ride for Pramac Yamaha in their initial MotoGP laps during the official testing session in Barcelona. Meanwhile, Pramac's current MotoGP titleholder, Jorge Martin, will be making his first appearance for Aprilia.

For two decades, Peter has been a familiar face in the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is currently closely involved in reporting on Suzuki's departure and the ongoing injury challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

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Marc Marquez credits a technical adjustment for his MotoGP podium finish in Barcelona

"He worked incredibly hard overnight, barely getting any sleep, I believe…"

Marc Marquez concluded his stint with the Gresini Ducati squad by securing a runner-up finish, which ensured he claimed third position in the championship standings.

Despite facing challenges at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, as evident from his performance in Saturday's Sprint where he ended up in seventh place, Marquez managed to achieve an unexpected outcome.

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"Today was challenging, particularly since yesterday's Sprint race was tough," Marquez shared with the media during the post-race press briefing in Barcelona.

He mentioned that adjustments made to the configuration of his bicycle played a significant role in enhancing his performance on Sunday.

"However, my technician was incredibly supportive throughout the night—I believe he hardly sleeps."

"After examining all of our actions, we essentially returned to the initial bike setup we began with in FP1."

From the moment the Warm Up began, I started feeling improved, and during the race, I was navigating it on my own terms.

"Certainly, we had our shortcomings, but my strengths were solid, which was incredibly beneficial."

Throughout the race, Marquez trailed Francesco Bagnaia, managing to narrow the gap at various moments but ultimately fell behind towards the end, failing to launch a significant attack for the top position.

"Marquez described the experience as being several laps behind Pecco, attempting to manage the circumstances."

"In the final five laps, I found it impossible to keep up with him. Whenever I got near, the front began to suffer significantly due to the temperature."

"Today, he outpaced me significantly. However, securing second place marks a wonderful conclusion to this incredible chapter of my career with the Gresini team, a journey I deeply cherished. It's the perfect gesture of gratitude."

In August 2024, Alex became a part of the Crash.net crew after spending two years at Visordown where he focused on reporting about consumer motorcycles and racing news.

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Potential Implications of Harley-Davidson's New Collaboration with MotoGP

Harley-Davidson and Dorna Sports Enter into a Strategic Partnership

Harley-Davidson, a well-known American manufacturing company, has entered into a strategic alliance with Dorna Sports. This collaboration is focused on expanding the presence of MotoGP in the United States and enhancing the global reach of the Harley-Davidson

After the last race of the 2024 MotoGP season on Monday, Harley-Davidson held a press conference with Dorna's leadership to reveal their new partnership. Meanwhile, Harley-Davidson motorcycles made their debut on the Barcelona track.

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On Monday, the Harley-Davidson Road Glide racing motorcycles, which compete in the King of the Baggers series within MotoAmerica, roared around the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

The King of the Baggers made its debut on the MotoAmerica schedule in 2020 and has quickly gained a reputation as potentially the most favored series in the U.S.-based championship.

This year marked the debut of the class at the US Grand Prix.

Rumors circulated around the MotoGP paddock in Barcelona during the Solidarity GP weekend, hinting at the possibility of introducing a new Baggers-style racing series to the grand prix lineup. However, this has not been officially confirmed.

Nonetheless, Harley's CEO, Jochen Zeitz, hinted to Crash.net that this was indeed the intention.

As of now, it seems that for 2025, only demonstration events, like the track trial in Barcelona, are planned. However, Zeitz is eager for Harley to quickly establish a long-term presence in MotoGP.

"We'll have to wait and see what results from it," he remarked.

"We aim to proceed as quickly as possible, though such matters require some time. Initially, we wish to gauge the level of interest generated by this initiative."

"Bringing the bicycles to Barcelona marks a significant move for us as we explore the possibilities."

"Up to this point, the response has been remarkable, with plenty of encouraging feedback and congratulations directed at our racers and mechanics. This indicates strong interest in establishing a new arena beyond the achievements of MotoGP."

The company, located in Milwaukee, has a long-standing tradition in motorcycle racing, especially in the area of off-road competitions.

Harley has claimed victories in grand prix competitions as well. Walter Villa secured the 250cc championship for the brand in 1975 and repeated his success in 1976, additionally winning the 350cc title that same year.

Harley is confident that it can mirror the success of the King of the Baggers series in Europe.

"Harley has a global following, with numerous enthusiasts taking their legendary bikes on tours and to racetracks. This concept, which we launched in 2021, has been highly successful, as evidenced by our ongoing involvement with MotoAmerica in the United States," Zeitz explains.

"We believe there are more global opportunities to pursue, and MotoGP could be an excellent partner in this endeavor. This presents a potential win-win situation for us, and we are eager to explore it further."

MotoGP races usually feature a packed schedule that includes the top-tier MotoGP class, along with Moto2 and Moto3 categories. At certain events, MotoE races and different Talent Cup competitions also take place. However, all of these are organized by Dorna and might not appear very different to someone who is not deeply familiar with the sport.

Including a Baggers championship in the MotoGP lineup could be an ideal strategy for Dorna to capture a fresh audience, especially in the United States. As Liberty Media, a US-based company, is poised to acquire a majority stake in Dorna starting in 2025, Harley sees a significant opportunity on the horizon.

Zeitz explains that their brand is legendary and has a rich history in racing. He highlights the significant chance to introduce this to audiences beyond the United States. To achieve this, they are collaborating with Dorna, who also aims to strengthen their presence in the U.S. market through MotoGP.

"With Liberty Media's involvement, it's clear that we all share this desire and interest."

"We've decided to explore collaboration opportunities because we have a legendary product and brand. Our goal is to remain involved in racing, while Dorna is interested in growth, and we're all eager to innovate. We believe that the King of the Baggers series is the perfect stage for this initiative."

MotoGP views its partnership with Harley as a way to increase its presence in the United States, which is an important aspect of the new ownership's strategy. Initially, there was some hesitation from MotoGP about including the King of the Baggers event in the US Grand Prix schedule this year. However, the activities at the Barcelona track on Monday indicate that MotoGP has now fully embraced the idea.

Carlos Ezpeleta, the chief sporting officer at Dorna, mentioned that the collaboration with Harley could be considered one of several efforts when asked by Crash if it might help MotoGP increase its presence in the United States.

Last night, we unveiled our new brand logos, which we are extremely proud of. One of our goals is to become visible in more unexpected locations.

"Harley can certainly assist us in achieving this goal, particularly within the United States, but also on a worldwide scale. They boast a vast network of Harley enthusiasts across the globe, which we aim to engage with."

"We frequently emphasize the significant importance of the United States to our strategy. We are optimistic that the new ownership will be finalized by the end of the year, and we are eager to pursue this and various other initiatives in the U.S."

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EXCLUSIVE: Ducati Finds Itself in a Difficult Position Regarding Jorge Martin

Insights from Davide Tardozzi in an Interview at the Barcelona Paddock, by Lewis Duncan

Ducati's team leader, Davide Tardozzi, expressed that the brand had to confront some tough choices regarding its MotoGP roster for 2025, decisions that ultimately led to the departure of the current world champion.

Pramac competitor Jorge Martin clinched the 2024 championship during the season's concluding race at the Solidarity Grand Prix, securing his victory with a third-place finish, even as his competitor Francesco Bagnaia took first place.

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Martin is set to depart from Ducati and will be moving to Aprilia in 2025, with his first appearance on the track scheduled for the post-season test on Tuesday.

Martin was initially chosen to be a part of the factory Ducati team with Bagnaia for the 2025 season. However, the team reversed its decision, opting to elevate Marc Marquez to the position after the eight-time world champion turned down a proposal to ride a works GP25 for Pramac.

The repercussions resulted in Ducati parting ways with Pramac in favor of Yamaha, Enea Bastianini moving to KTM, and both Martin and Marco Bezzecchi transitioning to Aprilia.

When questioned by Crash.net on whether there were any second thoughts about the events that transpired after Martin clinched the championship title, Tardozzi remarked, "You know, this year Ducati had the 'Fabulous Four' since the top four racers in the championship standings are ours.

"Unfortunately, we found ourselves in a position where we had to make some tough choices, particularly those that were emotionally challenging."

"Ultimately, we secured it, but sadly, this means Martin and Enea must part ways with Ducati as they've opted for a different factory bike."

"It's regrettable, but recovery from this was unattainable. We hope for their brightest prospects ahead."

Once more, a choice had to be made, leading to Pramac joining Yamaha while Jorge moved to Aprilia.

"However, I believe Ducati will continue to be a strong contender in the coming year as well, and it's important for us to demonstrate to our supporters that we made the correct choice."

Currently, Ducati is confronted with the possibility that the prestigious number one plate, which Martin has not yet made a decision on, might be mounted on a factory Aprilia by 2025. Despite this, Tardozzi continues to view the Bologna-based manufacturer as the true victor of this year's championship.

"Ultimately, I need to be candid here, it's clear that our hope was for Pecco to clinch the championship," he continued.

"The Ducati Lenovo team takes the spotlight, yet it's ultimately Ducati itself that triumphs in 2024, with its riders clinching the top four positions in the championship standings."

"Martin rides for Ducati. Pramac receives complete backing from Ducati, including factory bikes and a team of seven Ducati staff members on site."

"In conclusion, it appears that Ducati Factory ultimately emerges as the true victor of the championship."

Tardozzi observed that despite Bagnaia's impressive 11 grand prix victories, his failure to secure the championship by a narrow margin of 10 points was due to a few errors.

"Eight failures to finish [DNFs] are the reason he missed out on the championship title."

"Martin faced a significant disadvantage with eight losses compared to his opponent's three. However, ultimately, he held the top position for two years, a testament to his deserving nature and champion status."

"And I'm confident he'll contend for the title again next year."

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Jack Miller shares his thoughts on his last race with KTM.

Jack Miller has completed his final race representing KTM.

Jack Miller achieved a slight improvement in the last MotoGP race of the year, finishing his time with KTM by securing points.

Miller began the race strongly, yet he was unable to move beyond 13th place, as he struggled to overtake Miguel Oliveira. Coincidentally, Oliveira is set to join him as a teammate at the Pramac Yamaha team next year.

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"It went well," Miller commented. "I gave it my all."

"I got off to a good start and stayed close behind Miguel Oliveira, but honestly, I couldn't make any progress beyond that."

"Scattered instances occurred throughout. We succeeded in completing the task, although it wasn't the outcome we desired, we are pleased to be earning points again and to conclude in this manner."

"It's great to rejoin the team, perform a burnout, and wrap things up on such a high note. It's definitely preferable to ending up in the gravel."

"Anticipating Tuesday as a fresh start and eager to explore the possibilities it may bring."

During Saturday's Sprint, Miller faced notable problems with the grip at the back of his vehicle. However, switching from a medium-compound rear tire to a hard-compound one led to better performance. Despite this improvement, Miller still experienced some decrease in grip as the race progressed.

"I opted for the hard compound rear tire today," he mentioned.

"The left side weakened unexpectedly for me, and Miguel was certainly more powerful on that side compared to me."

"Initially, I felt very powerful, but then my strength started to decline."

"We plan to review the data, but it's not necessary; we can simply begin anew on Tuesday. I'm excited for it."

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

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EXCLUSIVE: Inside Look at Marc Marquez’s New Look and Branding for Off-Season Testing

A sneak peek into Marc Marquez’s official Ducati unveiling on Tuesday, reported by Lewis Duncan

Information has been released regarding the color scheme and branding design of Marc Marquez's official Ducati motorcycle during Tuesday's MotoGP offseason test.

A year after first riding for Ducati with the Gresini squad during the post-season Valencia test in 2024, Marquez is set to join the official team pit this coming Tuesday.

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Crash.net has learned that on Tuesday, Marquez is set to race in the official team livery, however, his motorcycle and racing suit will only feature the Michelin emblem and possibly other non-partisan sponsor stickers, with no additional branding present.

Marquez is presently sponsored by Red Bull, whereas the official Ducati team collaborates with Monster Energy.

Moreover, conflicts with sponsors exist elsewhere, like Marquez's partnership with Samsung in contrast to Ducati's main sponsorship deal with Lenovo.

At this point, it remains uncertain how Marquez's individual sponsors, especially Red Bull, who played a crucial role in supporting him through the challenging initial phase of his recuperation from a 2020 arm fracture sustained during that year’s Spanish Grand Prix, will be affected.

During the previous year's test in Valencia with Gresini, Marquez took to the track riding a GP23, which notably did not feature the team's livery but instead only displayed his personal sponsor logos on his racing suit.

Marquez's initial trial run with the Ducati last season created significant buzz, and his debut with the main team is poised to be a major topic of discussion this week.

However, Ducati team leader Davide Tardozzi has sought to temper anticipations regarding Marquez's performance on the motorcycle.

"Our aim is solely focused on collaborating and making an effort to build a rapport," Tardozzi explained to Crash.net.

"Come Tuesday, there will be no victories to claim. Your only task is to put in the work. The one who leads on Tuesday evening won't secure the championship title the following year."

Marquez secured a two-year contract with Ducati to team up with two-time world champion Francesco Bagnaia during the summer, after turning down a proposal to pilot a factory GP25 for Pramac.

This strategic maneuver eventually resulted in Jorge Martin joining Aprilia, where the Spanish rider will move to the Italian brand as the current world champion.

Throughout the season, Marquez has been competing on the GP23 with the Gresini team and has successfully clinched victory in three grand prix races.

On Tuesday in Barcelona, he will have his first experience with both Ducati's championship-winning GP24 and the prototype GP25.

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Marc Marquez steps into the official Ducati garage for the first time

Marc Marquez visits his new base for the initial time

Marc Marquez has made his initial entry into the official Ducati workshop.

On Sunday night, following the Solidarity Barcelona MotoGP event, Marquez was introduced to the factory setting by his teammates from the Gresini squad.

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However, on Monday, he made another trip to the garage that will become his residence in 2025.

Preview of 2025! 🐜 We warmly welcome @marcmarquez93 to our crew! It's time to get familiar with the new environment! 💪🏼 #ForzaDucati #DucatiLenovoTeam pic.twitter.com/h0hZ8Xsczq— Ducati Corse (@ducaticorse) November 18, 2024

Preview of 2025! 🐜 We warmly welcome @marcmarquez93 to our crew! It's time to get familiar with the new environment! 💪🏼 #ForzaDucati #DucatiLenovoTeam pic.twitter.com/h0hZ8Xsczq

Marquez will be moving from the Gresini satellite team to join the main Ducati team for the upcoming season.

He was promoted over Jorge Martin, who later achieved the title of 2024 MotoGP champion with the Pramac team. Martin has now joined Aprilia for the 2025 season.

On Tuesday, Marquez is set to don red attire for the first time during the postseason test.

He is preparing to cycle on a bike painted in the manufacturer's colors, but it will not feature any significant sponsorships or logos.

Marquez, who left Honda last year to switch over to a Ducati, is set to make another significant advancement.

This season, he has resumed winning races while riding a GP23 and has proven to be the quickest among those on the previous year's model.

In the upcoming year, he will benefit from using a GP25, which is the official Ducati model. He will be equipped with the same equipment as Pecco Bagnaia and Fabio di Giannantonio from VR46.

On Sunday and Monday, the mood in the Ducati garage seemed cheerful as Marquez, with a broad smile, showed up for the first time.

It is uncertain if there will be any friction between him and his teammate Bagnaia when they compete for the same title in the next season.

Ducati acknowledged that it was a "tough choice" to part ways with champion Martin in order to sign Marquez.

For ten years, James worked at Sky Sports as a journalist, reporting on a variety of sports including American sports, football, and Formula 1.

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Barcelona MotoGP Rider Evaluations: Disappointing Grades for a Pair of Aprilia Competitors

Crash.net presents its assessments for every MotoGP competitor following the concluding Solidarity Barcelona MotoGP race of the season.

Following the Solidarity Barcelona MotoGP, we've assessed the performances of the riders, revealing that five competitors scored less than five in our ratings.

Francesco Bagnaia – 9

Francesco Bagnaia delivered an almost impeccable performance in Barcelona, making it potentially his best showing of the season. Aside from an unusual crash at turn one during the initial FP1 start practice, he was virtually error-free throughout the event. He masterfully managed the Sprint, and likewise handled Marc Marquez with ease during the Grand Prix, utilizing a rear tyre that, after Saturday, was not thought to be a viable choice for the race.

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However, he forfeited his title, beginning the day as the reigning World Champion and concluding it as an ex-champion. Sunday offered little opportunity for him to change this outcome, suggesting that perhaps the situation should have been avoided altogether, with the power to do so largely in his own hands.

Marc Marquez – 8

By the lofty benchmarks he has set for himself, Marc Marquez generally underperforms at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. His standout moment at this track came in 2019 when he capitalized on a fortunate incident where his competitors eliminated themselves, and another instance in 2016 where a layout modification mid-weekend played to his advantage on Saturday.

It's quite peculiar, indeed, considering one might assume a surface with as little traction as Barcelona's would ideally suit Marquez's approach.

In a surprising twist at the Catalan venue, Saturday's Sprint highlighted Marquez's vulnerability, making him appear quite average. However, by Sunday, he skillfully navigated the challenges, using a soft-compound rear tyre to his advantage. This strategic move served as a reminder to Bagnaia that despite Jorge Martin's upcoming move to Aprilia, securing the 2025 championship won't be a straightforward task for the Italian.

Securing the runner-up spot in the season's closing Grand Prix, Marquez described this achievement as the ideal conclusion to his tenure with Gresini. Additionally, he managed to outperform Enea Bastianini, securing third place in the championship standings.

Jorge Martin – 9

Achieving two third-place finishes might usually not suffice for Jorge Martin to earn a nine, yet this weekend, they were exactly what he required. He secured the championship and at no point seemed at risk of losing it.

Throughout the entirety of 2024, Martin remained remarkably calm under the intense scrutiny of the moment, ensuring he maintained positions that wouldn't jeopardize his inaugural top-tier championship.

Why didn't he score a perfect 10? Simply because he didn't finish first in the race!

Alex Marquez Achieves Fourth Place

Securing fourth place, Alex Marquez reached what seems to be his peak performance considering the challenges posed by the Desmosedici GP23. This achievement is particularly notable when compared to the GP24's capabilities and factoring in the competition from a GP23 piloted by his renowned brother.

Marquez's performance hasn't reached the peak of his abilities, yet finishing the season with back-to-back fourth-place finishes signifies a solid end to what has sometimes been a lackluster sophomore season with Gresini.

Aleix Espargaro – 7.5

Aleix Espargaro concluded his MotoGP journey with a fifth-place finish, which felt somewhat underwhelming.

Riding his vintage 2005 125cc motorcycle for a cooldown on Saturday was quite impressive, and his performance during the second qualifying round (Q2) that secured him a second-place start on the grid was remarkable. However, his initial take-offs left much to be desired. Frankly, the writer of this piece isn't particularly fond of the idea of aiding Martin in winning the championship.

However, if that was his preferred way to exit, so be it. Ultimately, Martin was well beyond requiring the help that Espargaro was willing to offer.

Brad Binder – 7

KTM experienced a tumultuous weekend in Barcelona, facing significant challenges. The motorcycle struggled with handling, the qualifying rounds were a debacle, and Pedro Acosta's motorcycle suffered extensive damage with its fairing torn off in the initial lap of the Sprint race. Despite these setbacks, Brad Binder managed to secure a position within the top six.

Binder demonstrated remarkable comebacks in both events. His ability to rally is becoming increasingly recognized, but moving up from 18th to ninth in the Sprint and then from 18th to sixth in the Grand Prix stands out as particularly noteworthy, even for the South African racer.

Binder's outcome not only allowed him to surpass Acosta for fifth place in the riders' rankings, securing his position as the highest-ranked rider not on a Ducati, but it also marked his third consecutive year without a win in a Grand Prix event.

Enea Bastianini – 6.5

When considering Enea Bastianini's performance in MotoGP, his strategy often involves conserving his tyres for a powerful finish. However, Sprints might not be the first thing that comes to mind.

Nevertheless, Bastianini concludes his tenure as a factory Ducati racer by securing seven consecutive Sprint podium finishes, highlighted by his second-place finish this Saturday. This achievement is both remarkable and unexpected.

It seems, however, that his Grand Prix experience was far from grand. Frustration and disappointment marred the event for Bastianini, who, in a clash with Aleix Espargaro at the chicane, compromised his race and struggled to regain his footing thereafter.

Even if his involvement in the contest for the podium could have made a difference, it did little to aid Bagnaia in the championship battle during this final showdown. As Espargaro hinted post-race, ending up seven seconds behind the winner on a factory Ducati in 2024 seems difficult to defend.

Franco Morbidelli – 6

Franco Morbidelli is set for another year with the Desmosedici GP24, yet judging from his initial season, 2025 doesn’t appear promising for the racer who has claimed victory in three top-tier races.

The season for the Italian concluded in a manner consistent with its overall performance: not terrible, yet significantly slower than the other GP24s.

Marco Bezzecchi – 6.5

Finishing slightly ahead of Morbidelli, the man he is set to succeed at the VR46 squad next year, was Marco Bezzecchi. Securing ninth position in his final outing with VR46, a team he evidently has a deep affection for, likely didn't align with his aspirations for the event. Throughout the weekend, the Italian rider displayed moments of promise that seemed significantly more impressive.

Unfortunately, he couldn't secure a spot higher than the third row, essentially diminishing his opportunities to compete for favorable positions by Saturday noon.

The positive development for Bezzecchi is that, come Tuesday, he'll join Aprilia as a factory rider. However, partnering with Jorge Martin, who amassed 32 podium finishes this season, might seem like a formidable challenge for #72, who achieved just a single podium place in 2024.

Pedro Acosta, number 6, encountered issues with his brakes following a 10th place finish in Barcelona. However, the concluding weekend of his debut season unfolded similarly to the latter part of his season overall.

Contrasting with the beginning of 2024, where he played a crucial role in the initial races of the season, Acosta has shifted to a more peripheral role as the year progressed into its latter half.

Attributing the entirety of the issue to him doesn't seem entirely fair, given the increasing dominance of Ducati, yet it's undeniably been a disappointing conclusion to the season, epitomized by the events of the last weekend: a Did Not Finish (DNF) in the Sprint due to an early collision with Marc Marquez, and a 10th place finish in the Grand Prix, seemingly caused by brake issues.

Fabio Quartararo – 6.5

While Yamaha appeared to have advanced during the overseas races, the season finale in Barcelona worked hard to prove the opposite to all.

Hats off to Quartararo for his impressive performance in the Sprint, where he was in the thick of it with racers such as Morbidelli, Marc Marquez, and Bezzecchi. Despite his strong effort, a final lap maneuver by Binder left him without points.

However, during the Grand Prix, his pace was lacking, possibly due to the decision to use a hard-compound rear tire, which appeared to provide no benefit throughout the 24-lap race.

Miguel Oliveira – 6.5

Finishing in 12th, Miguel Oliveira concluded his stint with Trackhouse in a rather disappointing manner. However, considering it was his first race back since September, Oliveira performed commendably, easily surpassing his teammate, Raul Fernandez.

Jack Miller – 4

KTM's weekend in Barcelona left much to be desired, but for Jack Miller, it was even worse. In his media briefing on Saturday, he bluntly labeled his Sprint performance as "terrible."

Struggling to maneuver and apparently lacking traction at the back, Miller didn't perform well in qualifying and didn't fare much better in the race, marking a less than ideal conclusion to his tenure with KTM.

Traditionally, hopping onto a Yamaha was a quick fix for issues with turning encountered on a Tuesday, yet it's no longer the case as we've moved past 2018.

Johann Zarco – 6.5

Throughout 2024, Johann Zarco has consistently stood out for his qualifying prowess, particularly in the latter part of the season, where he has frequently managed to secure a spot for the Honda RC213V in Q2.

On Friday, he replicated his performance, securing the fourth position in Practice, marking the high point of his weekend.

Zarco concluded his inaugural complete season riding for Honda in 14th place, distinctly marking his position as the leading Honda rider.

Maverick Vinales concluded his stint with Aprilia in 15th position, trailing his team colleague, Espargaro, by 17 seconds. Overall, it was a rather disappointing outing for the Spanish rider who is headed to Tech3.

Luca Marini – 5.5

The remarkable composure Luca Marini has shown while handling the RC213V this season stands out as one of the most notable achievements in MotoGP.

Despite his efforts, Marini's achievements have not been as notable, particularly when measured against Zarco. The Italian conceded on Saturday that Zarco is managing to uncover additional speed on the Honda through some "unique" methods.

Takaaki Nakagami – 5.5

Takaaki Nakagami's performance in MotoGP's Friday morning FP1 session in Barcelona, where he secured the top spot, was a testament to his competitive presence, thanks to his strategic decision to use a new tyre towards the end of the session.

It's quite disappointing that Nakagami, whom I believe enjoys a good amount of fan support, was virtually ignored on television throughout the weekend. The only exception was a brief moment at the end of FP1, in stark contrast to the considerable coverage given to Espargaro, another rider who was retiring.

Certainly, Espargaro holds a more distinguished MotoGP career compared to Nakagami. However, during the broadcast, Nakagami's transition into his new role with HRC was subtly introduced, almost unnoticed, in stark contrast to the attention Espargaro's retirement received, which seemed to be a focal storyline of the weekend.

Regarding Nakagami's performance, it was satisfactory, finishing 17th in both events.

Raul Fernandez switched back to the Aprilia aerodynamic setup from 2023 for this weekend's race, yet it appeared to make minimal difference. As the only rider committed to Aprilia for the 2024 season continuing into 2025, he finished a disappointing 18th in the Grand Prix. He was a full 29 seconds away from the leader, lagging seven seconds behind the underperforming Vinales, and 17 seconds behind his own team member, Oliveira. This was especially notable at a circuit where, just half a year earlier during the Catalan Sprint, he had been leading for multiple laps.

Augusto Fernandez – 4

With a sense of optimism, Augusto Fernandez arrived in Barcelona, coming off a 10th-place finish in Sepang just a fortnight earlier. The question remains: was his performance in Malaysia a sign of progress, or merely a one-off?

If you guessed 'breakthrough,' you're mistaken. This weekend, Fernandez fell back into his usual position towards the lower end of the top 20, finishing 19th in his final race as a full-time MotoGP competitor. This outcome followed an extraordinarily odd collision with his teammate, Acosta, during FP1, which led to a red flag being waved.

Perhaps the only aspect more exasperating for Fernandez this season than his performance is Yamaha's inexplicable delay in confirming him as a test rider for the year 2025.

Michele Pirro – 6

Heading into the weekend, Michele Pirro was primarily focused on getting ready for Tuesday’s test following the race. However, taking a spill just five minutes into Friday morning’s FP1 session likely wasn't what he had envisioned.

However, beyond that aspect, his performance was essentially flawless, which is the most one could expect from a substitute rider.

Alex Rins – 2.5

Alex Rins had a challenging weekend, crossing the finish line in 21st place, just in front of Stefan Bradl. His performance was hampered by a double long lap penalty, which was imposed because he failed to serve an earlier single long lap penalty assigned for bypassing the turn 1–2 chicane.

Stefan Bradl – 6

Similar to Pirro, Bradl's presence was primarily in preparation for the test on Tuesday. His performance didn't dazzle, yet it was adequately satisfactory. Additionally, his Team HRC motorcycle boasted an eye-catching design.

Joan Mir – 4

Joan Mir's performance at the Barcelona Grand Prix concluded in a familiar scenario for his tenure with Repsol Honda, finishing off-track in the gravel. Issues with rear tyre vibrations also plagued him on Saturday, leaving Mir without the consolation of a solid Sprint race result to his name.

In the first quarter, he showed commendable performance, narrowly missing out on the two quarter-final positions to Fabio Quartararo, indicating that Mir hasn't lost his quickness, a positive takeaway.

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

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Fabio Quartararo describes his performance in the Barcelona MotoGP, where he finished in 11th position, as "one of my greatest races." Despite being 10 seconds behind the winner, Quartararo found reasons to feel positive about his results.

Fabio Quartararo, who has achieved 12 victories in Grand Prix events, described his 11th-place result at the recent Solidarity Barcelona MotoGP as "one of the best races" of his career.

The French motorcyclist just missed scoring points in the Sprint on Saturday due to a significant decrease in traction towards the race's conclusion.

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This led him to experiment with the hard-compound rear tire for the Grand Prix race.

Quartararo mentioned that they tested the hard compound rear tire, which hadn't been used at any point during the weekend.

"I believe it was the right decision, but we struggled with traction. Marco Bezzecchi was ahead of me using the soft compound rear tire, and despite it spinning throughout the race, he still managed to have better grip than I did by the end."

"Therefore, it's evident that we understand what we lack and what needs enhancement. However, I believe I was able to execute one of my best performances in a race, to be truthful."

"We ended up just 10 seconds shy of first place. Although our position wasn't the best, I believe we can be pleased with how we handled the race."

On Saturday, many riders dismissed the possibility of using the soft-compound rear tire for the entire race due to the performance decline observed during the Sprint.

Despite this, Quartararo mentioned that it didn’t catch him off guard when Francesco Bagnaia, who ended up as the race victor, opted for the soft rear tire.

Quartararo mentioned that he was aware Pecco, also known as Francesco Bagnaia, opted for the soft tire choice since he had nothing to lose.

"He had an astonishing speed, and I was surprised that [Jorge] Martin chose the medium compound for the rear tire. In my experience, the medium tire lost grip just like the soft tire but offered less capability."

"I was unaware of the difficulty, but yesterday, Alex Rins opted for the medium tire while I chose the soft one, and both of us experienced a significant decline in performance."

"I chose to take on the difficult task, knowing there was nothing at stake but gaining some knowledge."

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

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The Legacy of Pecco Bagnaia: A Celebrated MotoGP Icon

As Pecco Bagnaia's era in MotoGP concludes, his remarkable achievements on the circuit and his modesty away from it deserve to be cherished and honored.

Francesco Bagnaia's tale is a true example of triumph in MotoGP.

From achieving victories on the underdog Mahindra bikes in Moto3, to clinching the Moto2 championship and bearing the burden of anticipation associated with the VR46 moniker upon entering MotoGP, Bagnaia has truly put in significant effort.

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Standing alone, Bagnaia's pair of world titles might not be held in the same regard as those of his mentor Valentino Rossi or Marc Marquez. Although it was noteworthy that he managed to overcome a 91-point gap in 2022, he achieved this against a Fabio Quartararo who was at a distinct equipment disadvantage with the Yamaha.

His pursuit of a second world championship in 2023, facing off against Jorge Martin, proved to be significantly more challenging. However, Martin, being unfamiliar with the high stakes and tension of a MotoGP championship battle, started to reveal his inexperience as the season progressed.

This shouldn't undermine Bagnaia's accomplishments, as numerous contenders enter the arena only to leave in defeat. Bagnaia not only realized his highest aspirations but also played a pivotal role in shaping the prevailing era of Ducati's dominance we currently experience.

Since Bagnaia emerged as a true contender for the championship in 2021, Ducati has had several talented riders. However, none have matched his achievements: winning two world championships, securing victories in 29 grand prix races, achieving over 50 podium finishes, and obtaining 24 pole positions across 107 races for Ducati since he first joined the premier class with Pramac in 2019.

Bagnaia has outperformed Stoner

He has exceeded Casey Stoner's accomplishments with the Bologna-based team, yet in most assessments of the greatest MotoGP riders, the Australian two-time world champion is likely to be ranked above. It's possible to argue that Stoner had a more innate ability and that, with a more extended career, the Australian's records could have been notably improved.

However, a fair assessment of a rider's capabilities can only be made within the context of their specific racing period. Bagnaia's period in MotoGP stands out as exceptionally challenging and competitive. The difference in performance across the field is minimal, with the structure of the race weekend placing significant emphasis on Friday's outcomes. Additionally, the aerodynamics of the motorcycles, as described by a crew chief in a conversation with Crash in Barcelona, make them quite difficult to handle.

During MotoGP's 2024 Barcelona event, Bagnaia and Martin remained unreachable, leading by 10 seconds. At the Malaysian Grand Prix, held earlier in the month, Bagnaia maintained a 10-second gap from the third position, emphasizing his dominance. Despite the setback of eight non-finishes in 2024, the accomplishment of winning 11 grand prix titles in one season—a feat shared with renowned riders like Marquez, Stoner, and Jorge Lorenzo—undeniably demonstrates that Bagnaia's claim to the championship is as legitimate as Martin's.

"When asked by Crash.net to evaluate Bagnaia's tenure as MotoGP champion, Marc Marquez responded, 'I see comments like ‘perhaps he’s a decent champion’… A racer securing victories for two consecutive years clearly signifies they are an extraordinary champion – not merely a decent one.'"

"He's an outstanding champion. Securing a victory in MotoGP within a single year is not something everyone achieves; it requires talent. However, some may question that victory, thinking perhaps it was a fluke. Yet, when someone clinches the title for two consecutive years and is in contention for the championship in the third year right up to the final race, it's clear evidence of his exceptional prowess as a champion."

"I aim to gain knowledge from him since he has a deep understanding of the team and the motorcycle, which will be my goal, to stay near him. However, he will serve as the benchmark."

Bagnaia's abilities in racing have consistently earned praise from his colleagues. His determined pursuit to secure victories in both the sprint and the grand prix during the final race in Barcelona, in an effort to maintain his chances for as long as he can, clearly illustrates the reason for this admiration.

Jorge Martin and Pecco Bagnaia have both ascended to the pinnacle of MotoGP, each clinching the title of World Champion 🏆🎉 #MotoGP #SolidarityGP pic.twitter.com/ttWVQur7ew

"Dedication and Expertise"

Moreover, Bagnaia has exemplified the essence of a world champion through his conduct away from the track and his representation of the championship in his public statements.

Franco Morbidelli, sharing a closer perspective as a member of the VR46 Academy alongside Bagnaia, commented: "His exceptional dedication and professional attitude elevated the standard significantly. As the sport continues to advance, his unique method of engaging with motorcycle racing stood out. This dedication and professionalism are key attributes that have set him apart from the rest over the past three years."

This achievement is particularly commendable given it's the result of years of dedication. Throughout 2022, while Bagnaia was competing for his inaugural championship, he faced scrutiny for a drink-driving episode in Ibiza during the summer and a poorly considered Dennis Rodman homage helmet at the San Marino GP, which lingered even when the controversies had seemingly passed.

Mistakes are a part of everyone's journey, and the key is to grow from them. Bagnaia has significantly demonstrated this ability.

This was particularly evident right after the catastrophic floods in Valencia. Although its significance seemed minor compared to the dreadful images coming out of Spain, this calamity occurred just before the second-to-last round of the championship, raising questions about the fate of the final competition.

The contenders for the title managed the circumstances admirably, yet it was a scenario that would have a greater impact on Bagnaia. He admitted that canceling the last race could be detrimental to his chances, yet he completely trusted in any resolution Dorna chose to proceed with. For him, it was evident that the final race should not take place in Valencia.

During a media briefing at Sepang on Friday, he announced his decision not to compete in Valencia this season, even if it meant losing out on the championship title. This declaration raised questions about its influence on MotoGP's ultimate location in Barcelona, signaling that the statement from the reigning champion was significant and demanded attention.

Bagnaia earns praise for his stance on booing incidents

Throughout the year, Bagnaia has consistently shown grace under pressure. Notably, when his soon-to-be teammate Marc Marquez faced jeers from the crowd during the San Marino GP podium ceremony, Bagnaia visibly disapproved, signaling a no-go with his finger towards the disrespectful spectators. He went on to openly condemn such conduct as disrespectful during the Emilia Romagna GP two weeks after the incident.

Bagnaia has found himself entangled in the conflict between his mentor, Rossi, and Marquez, with Rossi often criticizing Marquez. Despite this, Bagnaia has maintained his composure and chosen not to participate or comment on the situation whenever inquiries are made.

In a definitive display of his sportsmanship, Bagnaia, upon being questioned in parc ferme following his championship loss, responded with elegance, stating: “I have no desire to overshadow Jorge’s moment. He has rightfully earned his accomplishments, and today belongs to him. My gratitude goes out to my team for their remarkable work; everything else is a separate matter.”

This season, Martin and Bagnaia have shared a deep mutual respect, a dynamic that likely wouldn't have existed to such an extent if Bagnaia wasn't competing against the 2024 champion.

In the upcoming two seasons, Bagnaia's performance in MotoGP, especially as he competes against Marquez with the same level of equipment at the official Ducati squad, will be crucial in shaping his career. Bagnaia has already shown he's a formidable contender, but Marquez's impressive results on an older GP23 model this season might raise some eyebrows.

However, Bagnaia's position at the close of 2026 shouldn't overshadow his accomplishments in MotoGP up to this point.

Over time, he might not be recalled as the most beloved figure. However, Bagnaia will forever be recognized as a distinguished world champion in MotoGP…

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