KTM remains committed to testing despite concerns over a development halt

KTM confirms: "A private testing session is scheduled in Jerez"

In the midst of widespread rumors about what lies ahead for Pierer Mobility's brands and its effect on their racing endeavors, KTM has announced that its MotoGP test team is set to resume its on-track activities this month as planned.

KTM informed Crash.net on Tuesday about their plans to conduct a private testing session in Jerez during December.

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Limited information was shared due to the secretive aspect of an internal trial, leaving it unclear if development riders Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro will both attend.

The prohibition on MotoGP's off-season trials extends from the 1st of December through to the 31st of January, applying exclusively to riders with full-time contracts.

The Sepang Shakedown test commences on January 31, serving as the precursor to the Official test.

KTM Racing Excluded from Legal Financial Reorganization

The company 'KTM Racing GmbH' is not partaking in the current 'legal reorganization process under its own administration' happening at KTM AG, due to the significant 'debts' amounting to an estimated €3 billion at its holding company, Pierer Industries AG.

Undoubtedly, the entire racing endeavors of the Pierer Mobility Group, with the MotoGP project being its most renowned and costliest, will experience a significant effect.

KTM communicated to Crash.net that the situation remains the same for its racing divisions, following remarks made by Hubert Trunkenpolz, the vice-chairman of the Pierer Group, and KTM's Motorsport Director Pit Beirer during the season's closing event in Barcelona.

"To put an end to any rumors: we are committed to participating in MotoGP for the upcoming year and the following one," Trunkenpolz confirmed to Speedweek.com in Barcelona.

"We are committed to an agreement with Dorna that we are actively honoring, and this commitment is exclusive to the KTM brand. Our focus is on elevating the brand, as we regard sports as the primary vehicle for KTM's marketing efforts, which is the reason behind our actions."

"Beirer emphasized their integral role within the company, stating, 'Should we encounter a shared issue, it's incumbent upon motorsport to lend assistance. It's a given that we're currently addressing the expenses related to motorsport in the most effective manner, making efforts to implement meaningful cost reductions…'"

"The discretionary funds are depleted, yet we are committed to securing the essential finances. Our focus will be on identifying cost-saving measures that do not impact the athlete's performance."

KTM secured the runner-up position in the constructors' championship this season, trailing behind Ducati, even though they didn't achieve a single race victory.

The Austrian manufacturing team is gearing up to present its most formidable roster of riders since it entered the top-tier competition in 2017, featuring Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta on the factory squad, alongside fresh recruits Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini with Tech3.

Red Bull sponsors both of the KTM MotoGP squads.

In the realm of grand prix racing, KTM has a reason to be optimistic in the immediate future. This is because there's already a halt on technical advancements in Moto3 (a category where its competitors clinched the first five positions this season), and the design of MotoGP engines will not undergo any changes from the beginning of 2025 until the conclusion of 2026.

However, the arrival of the 850cc MotoGP era in 2027 is expected to bring significant design expenses due to the need for new machinery.

Peter has spent two decades in the racing circuit, witnessing Valentino Rossi's rise and departure. He's leading the coverage on Suzuki's withdrawal and Marc Marquez's health complications.

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I'm the overlooked understudy of Valentino Rossi – "the backstory remains unknown to many."

"On social platforms, individuals post numerous comments that are unrelated to the truth."

Recently, a former apprentice of Valentino Rossi was warmly welcomed back to the Ranch for a riding session.

Francesco Bagnaia, Marco Bezzecchi, Luca Marini, and Franco Morbidelli consistently spend time in Tavullia and attribute a significant part of their development in MotoGP to Rossi, yet one former student chose to forge his own path.

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Five years ago, Nicolo Bulega parted ways with the VR46 Academy.

He transitioned from the Moto2 paddock to World Supersport, where he clinched the championship, and then advanced to compete in the World Superbike Championship for the inaugural time this year.

In his debut season, Bulega closely competed with Toprak Razgatlioglu but has now, during his off-season, made an uncommon visit back to Rossi's Ranch.

"Bulega mentioned to GPOne that numerous posts on social media are unrelated to its intended purpose."

"Individuals are often unaware of the context. However, I can attest to having an excellent rapport with Valentino Rossi."

"Likewise for Uccio Salucci. We remained up conversing until nearly midnight.

"On the circuit, Vale remains incredibly quick. I wasn't able to outpace him, yet the key takeaway is that we had an immensely enjoyable day."

Bulega also mentioned, "It's been six years since my last visit to the Ranch."

"Flat track racing requires steady performance, and without regular practice, it's challenging to maintain a competitive edge."

"It's somewhat akin to cycling. The skill remains with you, yet you lose the instinctive actions."

The day was filled with joy and excitement. Numerous individuals attended, and I secured the fifth position in the Americana event.

During my time at the academy, I recall speeding through the Ranch.

"I haven't lost sight of the flat track. I just need to regain my automatic reflexes."

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

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Maverick Vinales is baffled by his unexpected MotoGP victory in Austin, which shook up Ducati's dominance.

"The races in Portimao and Austin leave us puzzled," he admits.

Maverick Vinales acknowledges that both he and Aprilia are puzzled by their victory at the 2024 Americas MotoGP race, given he was riding a motorcycle that wasn't to his liking.

Vinales achieved his inaugural victory since 2021 by clinching a premier sprint win in Portugal, subsequently securing his initial grand prix triumph with Aprilia in Austin.

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By that time in the season, Vinales had positioned himself as an early contender for the championship. However, he would go on to secure just two additional podium finishes in sprint races thereafter, finishing the year ranked seventh in the overall standings.

The victory in Austin represented the sole instance in the 20-race season where a non-Ducati rider claimed first place, and it also established him as the first competitor in recent times to achieve first-place finishes with three distinct brands.

Ahead of his last race weekend with Aprilia before moving to Tech3 KTM, Vinales revealed that he realized too late his dislike for the 2024 RS-GP, a bike he had difficulty handling.

Thus, the secret behind his remarkable competitiveness in both the Portuguese and American competitions continues to elude him.

"In his remarks to the press, including Crash.net, in Barcelona the previous month, he shared that upon concluding the year 2023 in Valencia, he had only two requests: an improved beginning and to retain the same motorcycle, as he had grown quite fond of it."

"However, the scenario shifted when we reached Sepang."

"The one regret I hold is that, had the 2023 motorcycle received a slight aerodynamic enhancement, specifically a bit more downforce, it would have been competitive enough – perhaps not to challenge Ducati directly – but to secure a position within the top four due to its consistent performance."

"We were familiar with the arrangement and all the details. Therefore, it was simply a matter of hitting the track and giving it our all.

"It's uncertain whether Aprilia significantly deviated from the right path, but by the time we realized the issue, it was already too late for any modifications."

"I had to spend the entire year cycling on a bike that wasn't to my liking. However, Manuel [Cazeaux] and I put in the effort."

"What truly baffles us are the performances in Portimao and Austin. It's perplexing. Clearly, we performed well at several circuits, yet nowhere near as impressively as we did at these two locations."

Vinales experienced his first ride on the KTM during the post-Solidarity GP practice session, finishing 12th out of all participants after completing 74 laps. The Spanish rider expressed excitement over his first encounter with the RC16.

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Mario Andretti Expresses Doubts Over Personal Factors in Michael Andretti's F1 Project Setback

Mario Andretti Shares His Thoughts on His Son's Departure from Upcoming F1 Endeavor

Michael Andretti will not join the 11th Formula 1 team; however, his father, Mario, will be involved.

Former Formula 1 champion Mario has been appointed to the board of directors for the Cadillac team, which is supported by General Motors and has received approval to join the grid starting in 2026.

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Michael, initially aiming to establish a team under the Andretti banner, resigned from his leadership position in the initiative prior to receiving approval for the project.

Mario shared with Motorsport details about his son's departure, saying, "A lot of things were happening, and eventually it occurred. While it might have seemed like that was the main reason, it actually wasn't."

"In some way, he could have distanced himself a bit more from their daily affairs, ensuring that as we move ahead, we maintain our momentum without any disruptions."

Michael Andretti received the green light from the FIA, yet the current ten teams did not extend a warm welcome to him

Since then, those teams have agreed to the Cadillac offer without Michael being part of it.

"There appeared to be some personal matters involved that, on a personal level, I still don't comprehend," his father remarked.

"It appeared that everything ultimately hinged on that point."

Mario informed the Indy Star that even though it doesn't carry the Andretti team name, they're satisfied because they achieved their main goal.

"We are assembling a genuine American team for the grid, and Michael deserves significant recognition for his contribution to this effort."

General Motors has been given an opportunity to join Formula 1, and they plan to make their entrance with the Cadillac brand.

While they plan to join in 2026, they initially require an engine supplier. Ferrari seems to be in a favorable position to produce their engines.

The fresh initiative has promised to establish itself as an engine producer and a complete works team by the year 2030.

They will become part of Haas as the sole Formula 1 teams located in the United States.

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

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Competitor receives a 17-hour penalty for FaceTiming his mom during elite competition

The intriguing tale of a concerned mother amidst a renowned race

The off-season in motorcycle racing has unveiled an odd, unnoticed story.

A motocross participant finished a notoriously challenging competition while continuously video-calling his anxious mother.

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"Ben Hunter expressed his strong desire to compete in the Baja 1000, but mentioned his mother's refusal due to his Type 1 diabetes condition."

"She mentioned that the sole condition for my participation in the race was to broadcast it live throughout."

And that's precisely what he accomplished.

BREAKING: In an unprecedented event at this year's Baja 1000, motocross competitor Ben Hunter was spotted finishing the race with a @Starlink Mini secured to his helmet. "Competing in the Baja 1000 was a dream of mine, but due to my Type 1 diabetes, my mother was against it. She only agreed if I could be monitored live throughout the race," said Hunter.

Hunter arrived sporting a Starlink Mini attached to his helmet, connected to a power source.

His mom was broadcast live on FaceTime, attached to him with tape.

The Baja 1000 stands as a premier global event in off-road racing, taking place on the Baja California Peninsula.

Hunter's efforts to soothe his mother's worries were commendable.

However, in the realm of sports, his performance was less than satisfactory.

According to Motosprint, Hunter faced a 17-hour penalty for using a prohibited route.

This resulted in a formal exclusion from the competition.

Likely, a scolding from his mom who observed the entire incident.

For ten years, James served as a sports reporter for Sky Sports, providing coverage on a wide array of athletics including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1 racing.

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Yuki Tsunoda's humorous radio mix-up with the word "beaver"

In Qatar, Lewis Larkam reports that Yuki Tsunoda mistakenly believed there was a warning about a "beaver".

During the F1 Qatar Grand Prix, Yuki Tsunoda misunderstood an RB team message, believing they were alerting him to a "beaver."

The Japanese driver shared that he was puzzled by a radio communication he misunderstood, thinking his team was telling him that a beaver was on the track.

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Red Bull was cautioning Tsunoda regarding a dislodged mirror that had come off Alex Albon's Williams car during the tumultuous race at the Lusail International Circuit on Sunday.

Sauber's Valtteri Bottas collided with the mirror, leading it to break and scatter fragments along the pit straight.

Carlos Sainz from Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes experienced tire punctures just before the Safety Car was brought onto the track.

When questioned about whether he had noticed the mirror, Tsunoda responded, "Did you say mirror? I thought I heard beaver."

"My engineers reported spotting a beaver. However, I wondered why a beaver would be in the Middle East and questioned how it could be possible for a beaver to be there."

"However, it's possible that global warming could unexpectedly trigger a host of intriguing phenomena on our planet."

Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull, humorously remarked, "that's quite a shift," when informed about Tsunoda's mix-up over the radio.

Tsunoda stated that certain drivers ignored the yellow flags that were displayed following the incident where the mirror dropped onto the track.

Lando Norris from McLaren received a penalty requiring him to stop for 10 seconds because he did not reduce his speed for yellow flags. This penalty demoted him from second place to tenth.

After securing 13th place in Qatar, Tsunoda anticipates that the concern will be discussed during the drivers' meeting at the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi.

"There were double yellow lines, but some cars behind us didn't adhere to them," he mentioned.

"We need to address this in the upcoming drivers' meeting because some drivers follow the rules while others don't, which is quite unjust."

RB faced a challenging weekend in Qatar, falling further behind Alpine and Haas in the race for sixth position in the constructors' championship.

The Faenza team is currently in eighth place with 46 points. They trail Haas by eight points and are 13 points behind Alpine as they prepare for the final race in Abu Dhabi next weekend.

Lewis frequently travels globally to cover Grands Prix events for Crash.net. By being present at the venues, he often provides firsthand accounts of the events and shares the narratives of key figures in the sport.

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The downside of being Marc Marquez's teammate in MotoGP

"Being Marc's teammate implies that as soon as you unveil the pit box, you're greeted by 20 reporters waiting in front."

Alex Marquez has disclosed that the intensified "pressure" associated with having Marc Marquez as a teammate in MotoGP was the most challenging part of his 2024 season.

In a surprising move, Marc Marquez, who has clinched the world championship title eight times, has chosen to end his contract with Honda prematurely. He will join Gresini Racing to ride a GP23 Ducati for the 2024 season.

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Aiming to revive his career following a challenging period due to a severe arm injury in 2020, Marquez managed to secure victories in three Grand Prix races, equaling the achievements of world champion Jorge Martin, riding the 2023-spec Ducati. He is set to join the Italian's factory team in the upcoming season.

Marquez's entry into Gresini elevated the team's visibility beyond what it had experienced before, a change that Alex Marquez, the younger sibling of Marc, initially struggled to adapt to.

"The challenging aspect is the stress and the scrutiny you're under from those observing you more closely," Alex Marquez explained to Relevo.

"In 2023, the atmosphere in the box was notably calm, as we weren't always under intense media scrutiny. Having Marc around, though, changes the dynamic significantly; the moment you step into the box, you're greeted by around 20 reporters, all keenly observing every detail of what goes on inside."

"The stress wasn't limited to him alone, but was felt across the entire box, stemming not just from media pressure but also from external observers whose increased scrutiny only added to the negativity."

"Additionally, particularly in the early stages, the team overall appeared to be more anxious."

Ultimately, they found themselves with an eight-time world champion encased within the box, leading to a slight increase in anxiety.

"Indeed, following two to four races, things have settled down and the environment has become extremely calm."

The Marquez siblings had teamed up at Honda during the 2020 season, but they only shared the racetrack once before Marc suffered a career-interrupting arm injury at the Spanish Grand Prix, which halted his season.

Alex Marquez is set to continue with Gresini for the upcoming season, where he will be aboard a GP24. Meanwhile, the position previously held by his brother has been filled by newcomer Fermin Aldeguer.

In 2023, Alex Marquez celebrated significant achievements, including podium finishes and winning sprints with Gresini on the GP22. However, his performance faced challenges during the 2024 season.

He only stepped onto the podium once during the GP23 at the German GP, securing a third-place finish behind his sibling Marc, while Alex concluded the season in eighth place in the overall rankings.

The event in Germany was the first instance in 27 years where siblings stood together on a top-tier racing podium, a feat last achieved by Nobuatsu and Takuma Aoki at Imola in 1997.

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The downside of being Marc Marquez's teammate in MotoGP

"Being on Marc's team implies that as soon as you show up, you're greeted by 20 reporters waiting for you"

Alex Marquez disclosed that the heightened "pressure" associated with being teammates with Marc Marquez in MotoGP was the most challenging part of his 2024 season.

In a surprising move, eight-time world champion Marc Marquez announced his departure from his Honda team contract a year ahead of schedule, opting instead to join Gresini Racing on a GP23 Ducati for the 2024 season.

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Aiming to revive his career following a challenging period marked by a significant arm injury in 2020, Marquez achieved victory in three Grand Prix races, equaling the achievements of world champion Jorge Martin, while riding the 2023-spec Ducati. He is set to join the Italian manufacturer's official team in the upcoming season.

Marquez joining Gresini garnered unprecedented focus on the satellite team, a transition that Alex Marquez, the younger sibling of Marc, initially found challenging to adapt to.

"The challenging aspect is the intense scrutiny and how those observing you closely judge you," Alex Marquez expressed to Relevo.

"In 2023, our experience was notably calmer; we weren't always under intense scrutiny. Having Marc around meant that anytime you’d open the box, you'd be greeted by around 20 journalists, all keenly observant of every detail occurring within the box."

"Moreover, the pressure isn't just felt by him alone, but it permeates throughout the entire box and stems not only from media professionals but also from external observers who are particularly focused, which is unfortunate."

"Additionally, particularly at the start, the team overall appeared more anxious during certain moments."

Ultimately, they found themselves with an eight-time world champion in their midst, which added a slight edge of anxiety.

"Indeed, following the initial two to four races, conditions have stabilized, resulting in a remarkably calm environment."

The Marquez siblings had teamed up at Honda in the year 2020, but before Marc suffered a career-halting arm injury at the Spanish Grand Prix, they had only competed in one race alongside each other.

Alex Marquez is set to continue with Gresini for the upcoming season, where he will be riding a GP24. Meanwhile, the spot previously held by his brother will now be filled by newcomer Fermin Aldeguer.

In 2023, Alex Marquez experienced the thrill of winning at the grand prix and sprint races with Gresini on the GP22, but faced more challenges during the 2024 season.

He only ascended the podium once on the GP23 at the German Grand Prix, securing a third-place finish behind his sibling Marc, while Alex concluded the season in eighth place overall in the rankings.

The podium in Germany was the scene of a historic moment, as it was the first occasion in 27 years that siblings stood together on a premier class podium since Nobuatsu and Takuma Aoki accomplished this feat at Imola in 1997.

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Mercedes clarifies the refusal of Lewis Hamilton's request to withdraw his car from the Qatar race.

Mercedes provided an explanation for turning down Lewis Hamilton's request to withdraw his car from the Qatar Grand Prix in Formula 1.

The seven-time world champion's struggles persisted in Qatar, where he ended the second-to-last race of the season in 12th place, missing out on scoring points. His performance was hampered by two penalties and a punctured tire.

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Hamilton received a five-second penalty due to a false start, and was subsequently penalized with a drive-through penalty for exceeding the speed limit in the pitlane.

In a disappointing performance, Hamilton was overheard on the team radio requesting Mercedes to "retire his car," a suggestion that race engineer Peter 'Bono' Bonnington turned down.

Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff explained that the decision was made to ensure his penalty would not affect the upcoming season finale at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Following Sunday's race in Qatar, Wolff expressed to the press, including reporters from Crash.net, that the race was not up to par.

"In my opinion, many found the car challenging to operate. It simply didn't steer as much as needed."

"When the traction takes hold, there's significant understeer, which negatively impacts both of them."

The situation reached a stage where the initial struggles and the speeding penalty in the pit lane made it seem nearly pointless to keep going.

"If you decide to park the car, you'll take a five-second penalty with you to Abu Dhabi."

Hamilton's final race with Mercedes will be in Abu Dhabi, concluding a 12-year journey with the team before he makes a highly anticipated move to Ferrari.

Wolff emphasized that the upcoming weekend will serve as a "celebration" for both Hamilton and the Mercedes team.

"To begin with, Wolff mentioned that he and Lewis have had an incredible partnership lasting two decades."

"We've secured eight Constructors' Championships and six Drivers' titles with his involvement, and he has won around 80 races. That's the main impression."

"When I have conversations with Lewis, it's a matter that we both value greatly."

"In these recent races, and possibly throughout the entire season, the performances over the past week have definitely not met our expectations."

"On its most challenging days, that car is a real struggle to handle, just as it was today. Once the tires gain traction, it simply refuses to steer. We still have one more race ahead of us."

"We are committed to doing our best, and we will honor the collaboration and bond we shared. The disappointment of these few races will soon fade, despite the current pain."

Lewis frequently travels globally to cover Grand Prix events for Crash.net. With his on-site reporting, he shares the narratives of key figures in the racing world.

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Jorge Martin expressed, "Being chosen was incredibly moving for me; had they not selected me, I believe I might have walked away from motorcycle racing."

Among the significant milestones in Jorge Martin's journey to becoming the new MotoGP world champion, an especially crucial turning point occurred well before he ever set foot in the grand prix paddock.

Following his victories in several Spanish competitions, Martin sought to enter the Red Bull Rookies Cup but was initially rejected.

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"After clinching the MotoGP championship at the final race in Barcelona, Martin attributed his success to the Red Bull Rookies Cup, stating, 'I owe my presence here to it.'"

I can guarantee this to you.

"Our family was typical. We weren't impoverished, but rather average, which meant we lacked the financial means to continue racing."

"However, during my initial visit to the Rookies Cup, I was fairly young and had never even attempted riding a 125. Despite my speed, they advised me to return a year later."

"Upon my return, I emerged as the swiftest. Their guidance played a crucial role in my enhancement."

"Being chosen was incredibly moving for me, as I was on the verge of giving up on motorcycling if they had decided against me at that moment."

Martin secured the 12th spot in the 2012 Red Bull Rookies Cup, claimed second place in 2013, and emerged as the champion in 2014.

"After spending three years competing in the Rookies Cup, I ultimately emerged victorious. This win marked a pivotal point in my career," he shared. This achievement launched Martin into the grand prix circuit the next year, joining the Aspar Mahindra team alongside Francesco Bagnaia, who would later become a competitor for the MotoGP championship.

Aleix Espargaro played a significant role in supporting Martin's career by providing him with motorcycles for practice and treating him akin to a 'son'.

In his profile for the Red Bull Rookies, created before the start of the 2013 season, Martin shared his goals:

My journey started when I was just six years old. My dad had a passion for motorcycles and rode as a hobbyist. And then, during the ‘Three Wise Men’ celebration, I received a mini motorcycle as a gift, prompting me to take after him.

"My goal is to claim the title of world champion and surpass the achievements of my idol, Valentino Rossi."

In 2018, Martin secured his initial world championship in the Moto3 category with the Gresini team, and he added a second title in the MotoGP class with Pramac Ducati this season.

At 26 years old, the Spanish rider is one of 23 former Rookies who have secured an FIM world championship and is among the eleven who have ascended to the premier MotoGP category.

Other notable names include Johann Zarco, Joan Mir, Miguel Oliveira, Brad Binder, Lorenzo Savadori, Enea Bastianini, Darryn Binder, Fabio Di Giannantonio, Raul Fernandez, and Pedro Acosta.

"Martin expressed his deep pride in the Red Bull Rookies Cup, stating, "It provided me with a chance."

Commenting on his achievement as the inaugural satellite rider to clinch the 'MotoGP' championship, the rider who joined Aprilia in 2025 shared:

"Walking away from motorcycles wouldn't diminish my happiness; I remain incredibly excited about what lies ahead."

"Pecco and I are still quite youthful, with potentially 8-10 years ahead of us in our racing careers."

"Having secured a MotoGP championship, I'm now better equipped for any future chances that come my way."

“Securing the championship won't significantly alter my lifestyle. It's largely for the benefit of my family and the team.”

For two decades, Peter has been a fixture in the racing world, witnessing the rise and departure of Valentino Rossi. He's leading the coverage on Suzuki's withdrawal and Marc Marquez's struggles with injuries.

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Luca Marini: "My Efforts to Master Japanese!" – Exclusive

"I made an attempt to master Japanese. I'm not throwing in the towel yet, but it's incredibly challenging!"

Luca Marini is committed to aiding in the resurgence of Honda's MotoGP endeavor, which involves making efforts to learn Japanese.

Effective dialogue between Japanese producers and their European racing squads is essential, particularly in translating rider insights for motorcycle improvement.

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"Upon my arrival, numerous individuals advised me that interacting with the Japanese posed more challenges. They suggested I should strive for clarity and tranquility in my explanations," Marini shared during a discussion with Crash.net.

"Thus, I perform that task to the best of my ability."

"I've attempted to study Japanese and refuse to quit, although it's incredibly challenging!"

Although the Italian is still improving his Japanese, he has successfully built effective communication channels with the engineers at HRC.

"Initially, it was essential to establish trust among ourselves. However, at this point, they have great faith in me, which is something I deeply value," Marini explained.

"I aim to provide them with extremely detailed feedback, especially since what a rider experiences on the bike can sometimes be hard to discern from the data."

"I truly value their cultural practices and their approach to tasks. It involves striving to establish a strong rapport, and to grasp their perspective as well."

"Occasionally, due to diverse cultural backgrounds and personal experiences, perspectives can vary. Hence, we strive to unite and align our viewpoints."

This season, Marini made a switch to Repsol Honda following the exit of Marc Marquez, an eight-time world champion, who moved to Gresini Ducati.

The rider, who has claimed victory in Moto2 six times, was building on his most successful MotoGP season, where he achieved two top-three finishes, secured two pole positions, and ranked eighth in the global championship, competing for the VR46 Ducati team owned by his elder sibling, Valentino Rossi.

However, Repsol Honda finds itself in a significantly altered state compared to the era of Rossi's consecutive championship victories and 20 race triumphs in 2002 and 2003.

Marini didn't earn any points until the ninth race due to penalties related to tyre pressure at Sachsenring. However, his performance markedly improved following the Misano race.

Marini, visibly upset by early season speculations about leaving the team, managed to secure points in five of the final seven rounds, achieving 12th place twice.

During the other two Grand Prix races, he was involved in a collision on the first lap at Mandalika, marking one of just four crashes Marini experienced this season, the fewest of any regular rider. Additionally, he finished in 16th position in the final race in Barcelona.

"Keep your eyes on the prize: Returning Honda to its leading position"

When questioned about whether his first season with Honda met his expectations, Marini responded, “First off, I’d like to express that this season has been very favorable for me.

"I've made significant strides in my personal development and in enhancing my riding skills. I've become a more skilled rider and a more refined individual. Therefore, I'm completely content with the progress I've made in my personal growth this year."

"Honestly, I anticipated facing fewer challenges early on in the season," he confessed.

Despite the challenges, I persevered and collaborated effectively with my team and the engineers from Japan.

"At this point, we've arrived at a satisfactory stage. Certainly, the results are not yet where they need to be, but it's important to recognize the progress and the significant strides we've achieved from our starting point."

LCR's Johann Zarco led the charge for Honda, finishing 17th in the standings and achieving a season-high finish of eighth place. Takaaki Nakagami ended up in 19th position, followed by Joan Mir in 21st, and Marini in 22nd.

Despite being eligible for new technical advantages, Honda continued to occupy the bottom spot in the MotoGP constructors' rankings.

However, from the very first race, the four racers were at a disadvantage due to choosing an engine layout during the initial Sepang trials that turned out to be a poor decision.

"Unfortunately, we've faced some bad luck since the engine, which seemed promising during the Sepang test, ended up causing numerous unforeseen issues," Marini's colleague Mir stated.

Marini stressed the importance of staying focused despite these obstacles.

"He emphasized that maintaining composure and ensuring motivation remained elevated was crucial."

"Make an effort to appreciate each circumstance, regardless of a negative outcome."

"Aim to view things from a positive perspective. Remain highly concentrated on the goal of restoring Honda to its peak position."

"I was aware that it would require some time, but we have now begun moving in the right direction."

Despite professional racing often being considered a self-centered sport, Marini emphasized that he experienced a sense of gratification when modifications he had suggested also proved advantageous for other Honda racers.

“Whenever the Japanese provide us with a new upgrade, upon my asking, that also improves the experience for the other riders, it fills me with great pleasure,” he expressed.

"Since we all share a common goal."

"We need to continue putting in the effort as we are, and I'll persist in demonstrating my skills and capabilities, both on the circuit and beyond."

For his upcoming second season at HRC, Marini will be partnering with a new chief mechanic, Cristhian Pupulin. Pupulin, who previously collaborated with Jack Miller during his stints at Ducati and KTM, will be taking over from Giacomo Guidotti.

Due to the restriction on winter practice for regular competitors, Marini is set to commence his MotoGP training for the 2025 season during the Sepang Shakedown trial on January 31.

For two decades, Peter has witnessed the ebb and flow of the paddock, including Valentino Rossi's tenure. He's leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure and the challenges Marc Marquez faces with his injuries.

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Toto Wolff ridicules the FIA for recent "reality show" antics

Toto Wolff suggests that the FIA might as well have its own "reality show" given the recent controversies.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff suggests that the recent controversies involving Formula 1's governing body could be enough material for the FIA to create its own "reality show."

In the days leading up to last weekend's Qatar Grand Prix, attention was largely focused on unexpected changes within the FIA. Janette Tan, who was slated to become the F2 race director, was dismissed just before assuming the role. Additionally, Tim Mayer, a veteran steward, was also let go.

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A few weeks ago, Niels Wittich, the F1 race director, was unexpectedly dismissed with only three races left in the season. Rui Marques, who previously managed F2 and F3, was promoted to handle F1. However, with Tan's sudden departure, Marques found himself with additional responsibilities during the Qatar event.

When questioned about the ongoing drama within the FIA, Wolff shared with reporters, including those from Crash.net, that the situation could be seen in a positive light, suggesting it might be entertaining enough to warrant its own reality show.

"All of our stakeholders should remember that it's crucial to safeguard the integrity of this cherished sport. We must do so with responsibility, accountability, and transparency, because right now, it's not being perceived that way."

"I am unable to examine the workings of the organization. I recognize the efforts we, as teams, are making to maintain cohesion. However, it's encouraging to see the drivers coming together for this larger cause, as they have demonstrated."

"Teams have a clear grasp of our standards for what is considered right or wrong. Therefore, everyone should reflect on their actions and ask themselves, 'Am I giving my best to this sport, or not?'"

FIA's president has the authority to dismiss staff at will. Meanwhile, GPDA director George Russell has urged the FIA to be more transparent in Qatar, emphasizing that the drivers are keen to understand "who will be let go next."

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem strongly responded to the drivers, asserting that his management of the sport is "not their concern."

Wolff expressed his worries about how the chaos might harm Formula 1's reputation, but he conceded that Ben Sulayem has the authority to make decisions as he wishes.

Wolff commented, “Ben Sulayem has the authority to dismiss anyone because it’s his organization and he holds the position of president. No one else is involved in that decision.”

"The key concern for drivers and everyone involved is whether these changes enhance the decision-making process. Are the regulations improved? Is the sport benefiting from these adjustments in the organization and personnel?"

"If the response to everything is affirmative, then this becomes an internal issue that he needs to manage."

"Clearly, the current news and the possible negative impact on reputation are detrimental to everyone involved."

"In my opinion, everyone involved in this sport—whether it’s the media, the FIA, the drivers, the teams, Liberty Media, or Stefano Domenicali at the helm—needs to prioritize rational thinking. Especially now, when there's a lot of division and conflict, it’s crucial that reason prevails. However, I don’t see that happening right now."

Lewis frequently travels to various Grand Prix events worldwide for Crash.net. He typically provides on-the-scene coverage, sharing the narratives of key figures in the motorsport industry.

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