Title: BMW or Suzuki? New MotoGP Entrants Given Guidelines for Participation

Dorna's leadership states that existing manufacturers should have input

A Dorna executive has outlined the steps that manufacturers such as BMW or Suzuki need to take to join the MotoGP lineup.

BMW has considered the possibility of entering MotoGP as a new manufacturer, following their remarkable achievement in the World Superbike Championship this year, where Toprak Razgatlioglu clinched the title.

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In an unexpected move, Suzuki exited MotoGP in 2022, but they have now hinted at the possibility of returning.

Dorna's sporting director, Carlos Ezpeleta, expressed to Relevo that he believes the championship is currently experiencing an exceptional period in terms of sports performance.

"Having additional factories might improve the situation, perhaps."

"It's possible that we are uncertain, and it hinges on how well it performs, the amount of investment put into it, and the promotional efforts made by that brand."

The main point is that there's an opportunity available, but it requires consensus with the current teams. Our aim is to maintain a maximum of 22 riders and no more than 11 teams.

"There are 11 teams, each with its own worth, and anyone interested in joining must negotiate with one of these teams."

"Our aim has been to create a technical framework that allows a new factory to make a sensible investment, ultimately benefiting their business operations. This is the outcome we are striving to achieve."

In 2025, a significant shift will occur with fewer Ducati motorcycles competing on the track.

Ducati, which has been the leading team in MotoGP for the past two years, plans to reduce its number of bikes from eight to four and its factory bikes from four to three.

Yamaha has brought the Pramac satellite team over from Ducati, increasing their team count from two to four.

Ezpeleta mentioned that Dorna's approach has consistently been to craft sporting and technical rules aimed at ensuring fairness and equality.

"This year, we are seeing a shift as Jorge has emerged as the champion."

The gap is less pronounced now compared to years past. While the labels are different, the actual distinction is not as significant as it once was.

From the perspective of the teams and the number of motorcycles each manufacturer provided, having eight Ducatis on the track was a result of the private teams' decisions. These teams, which compete and aim to secure the best performance for their budget in a free market, naturally led to this outcome.

"We didn't need to step in. Last year, Dorna and IRTA made a decision to revise the concession system from an organizational perspective to ensure it aligns better with current needs, and that revision has been implemented."

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.

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Poncharal: KTM's MotoGP initiative continues uninterrupted

Is everything steady for KTM Racing GmbH? Could Red Bull provide support?

The head of KTM's satellite Tech3 team, Herve Poncharal, stated that preparations for the 2025 MotoGP season are moving forward as planned, even though the Pierer Mobility Group is experiencing financial difficulties.

In an interview with GPOne.com, Poncharal stated that plans for 2025 are set in stone. He mentioned having a discussion with Hupert Trunkenpolz, Pit Beirer, and Carmelo Ezpeleta at the most recent Grand Prix in Barcelona. During this meeting, they agreed on a strategy that will be adhered to. According to the details Poncharal received, the financial challenges faced by the Pierer Group will not impact the operations of the Racing Department.

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"A mere week prior, the crew chiefs for all four MotoGP racers were in Austria at the Racing Department, with operations continuing as they normally do."

The standard winter preparations are underway, and the dates for assembling bikes have been set for the end of the month. Essentially, operations are proceeding as normal," mentioned the French team member, noting that in 2025, the team will transition from GASGAS to Red Bull KTM branding.

Are KTM Racing GmbH seeing any alterations?

Recent evaluations suggest that Pierer Industrie AG owes around 1.8 billion euros. Consequently, KTM AG, along with KTM Components and KTM F&E (Research and Development), is currently involved in a ‘judicial restructuring process with self-governance’.

KTM Racing GmbH remains unchanged by the restructuring efforts; however, it will face impacts from the financial difficulties affecting every company within the Pierer Group.

According to Poncharal, Crash.net is also aware that KTM's racing division is operating as usual, though they are managing expenses carefully.

According to recent reports, KTM is set to conduct a private MotoGP test session at Jerez. Meanwhile, it is noted that the budget for the 2025 season remains aligned with the existing financial agreements.

An insider associated with one of KTM's riders for the upcoming year also conveyed assurance that the MotoGP project will maintain its current level of backing.

Some individuals cautioned that the full picture of the motorsport scenario may remain uncertain until after the vote on the suggested restructuring plan and potential losses, which is scheduled for February 25.

According to Pierer Mobility, the restructuring will likely lead to more potential losses. These could stem from one-time expenses, including necessary write-downs like those for capitalized development costs. Additionally, there will be expenses related to staff reductions, a decrease in fixed cost coverage due to lower operational performance, and other costs associated with the restructuring efforts.

"As a result of the previously mentioned factors, the company anticipates reporting a substantial negative net income for the 2024 fiscal year, amounting to several hundred million."

According to some paddock insiders who spoke to Crash.net and are not directly affiliated with KTM, there is a worry that banks and creditors might hesitate to continue funding costly motorsport ventures if they are dealing with significant financial losses and layoffs.

KTM might argue against reducing its racing budget by saying that their brand and sales heavily rely on motorsport, especially with their ‘Ready to Race’ motto. Cutting the racing budget too much could harm their business interests beyond the essential needs.

KTM Motorsport director, Pit Beirer, stated during last month's MotoGP finale in Barcelona that while they no longer have funds for non-essential expenses, they are committed to securing necessary finances. He emphasized that any budget cuts will be made in areas that do not negatively impact the riders' performance on the track.

The expenses associated with KTM's grand prix endeavors, which include the Rookies Cup, Moto3, Moto2, and primarily MotoGP, are estimated to be around 40 million euros. Of this amount, sponsorship from Red Bull contributes approximately 10 to 15 million euros.

Could Red Bull step in to save the day?

To shield the MotoGP project from financial cutbacks and to alleviate uncertainties about its sustainability, especially with the introduction of new 850cc bikes in 2027, bringing in an external investor to acquire 'KTM Racing GmbH' could be a viable solution.

One of the ideal candidates would be Red Bull, or one of its Austrian investors, due to its strong existing connection with KTM. Red Bull could potentially integrate the prototype MotoGP and Moto3 operations into its expansive 'Red Bull Racing' and related technology sectors.

Red Bull Advanced Technologies is currently involved in developing the aerodynamics for the RC16. Additionally, Red Bull has a wealth of Formula 1 engineers capable of constructing its carbon fiber chassis. Red Bull Powertrains might add to what is already considered the most powerful engine in MotoGP.

A source familiar with legal matters, observing from an external perspective, suggested that this scenario might be an ideal way for the racing team to sidestep any disputes with KTM's creditors.

KTM AG might continue managing its own racing events focused on production, including motocross, enduro, and rally raid competitions.

Currently, everything remains uncertain as Red Bull Racing has informed Crash.net during the Abu Dhabi F1 season finale this weekend that they have no remarks regarding the KTM matter.

The initial meeting for creditors to review the KTM restructuring proposals is set for December 20.

For two decades, Peter has been a notable presence in the paddock, witnessing the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is deeply involved in covering the story of Suzuki's departure and the ongoing injury challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

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I equaled Valentino Rossi's achievement – now I need to aim for what many consider his most impressive accomplishment.

An extraordinary achievement by Valentino Rossi is set to be pursued in 2025.

An extraordinary record held by Valentino Rossi has been equaled, and another of his achievements may soon be matched as well.

Jorge Martin, a MotoGP competitor, has a significant opportunity to make history.

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This year, racing for Pramac Ducati, Martin made history by becoming the first racer from an independent team to clinch the MotoGP championship since Rossi achieved the feat 23 years prior.

Rossi achieved this milestone while racing for the Nastro Azzuro Honda team, using a factory-spec NSR500, during the last year of the 500cc era.

Martin has the opportunity to equal a legendary achievement by securing victory in the opening race of his title defense as the MotoGP champion, riding a bike from a different manufacturer. In 2025, he will transition from Ducati to Aprilia.

Rossi, known for his high-profile switch from Honda to the less-favored Yamaha team, surprised everyone by clinching victory in South Africa during the opening race of the 2004 season.

Martin expressed that he believes winning his first race on the Aprilia will be a significant challenge and quite difficult, as reported by Motorsport.

"Transitioning from a highly successful initiative to one that currently lacks success is challenging."

"However, I feel very assured, and I believe that this new endeavor provides me with additional drive."

"I enjoyed my time at Ducati and even secured a championship there."

"This new venture provides me with even greater drive to make a name for myself in the motorcycling community."

When questioned about his confidence in securing a victory with Aprilia at the beginning of 2025, Martin responded affirmatively: "Absolutely. As Gigi Dall'Igna mentioned, entering a season without the belief that you can win means you might as well not participate at all."

"I believe I have the ability to achieve it since the start of the season."

Martin elaborated on his objectives for the upcoming year as he prepares to defend his title as the MotoGP champion.

"I'm not sure yet; we'll find out in time. Initially, we will definitely need to construct and gain knowledge," he acknowledged.

"We need to make progress daily, and then anything could be possible. A strong start can lead to remarkable achievements."

"If we don't begin as strongly, there will be more challenges ahead, but we'll have to wait and see. However, I am confident that the possibilities are immense."

Martin and Marco Bezzecchi will be teammates as they both familiarize themselves with the factory Aprilia motorcycles.

Uncertain about using the #1 plate, Martin will be the focus of everyone's attention nonetheless.

"Winning the championship feels amazing," he remarked.

"I haven't been able to return home at all; a lot has occurred, and I'm exhausted."

"I am grateful for this chance and feel fortunate to have the honor of being in this role."

"I am gradually coming to understand the situation. I owe a debt of gratitude to my family, the team, and all those who played a role in the events."

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

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Exclusive Interview with Frankie Carchedi: “Had Marc Marquez's Initial Victory Come Sooner…”

“The outcome might have been different if his first victory had occurred earlier.”

During a crucial MotoGP season with Gresini, Marc Marquez experienced a resurgence, breaking a three-year spell without a win by clinching three grand prix victories. This impressive performance earned him a factory Ducati contract for the 2025 season.

This year, his crew chief was Frankie Carchedi, who had earlier led Fabio di Giannantonio to his first MotoGP win with Gresini in 2023 and helped Joan Mir secure the world championship with Suzuki in 2020.

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In an upcoming episode of the Crash.net MotoGP podcast, Carchedi discussed how Marquez adjusted to the Desmosedici. He said, "Marc was quick right away at Valencia. However, during testing, you have the flexibility to progress at your own pace and follow your planned schedule."

"His performance during race simulations at Sepang and Qatar was impressive. The issue arose when we returned to the European circuits; after completing 20 laps, we headed into qualifying, and we found ourselves unprepared."

"There is a specific method for completing a single flying lap on a Ducati to optimize its performance, and I believe we didn't frequently secure direct entries into Q2 during the first half of the year."

The entire weekend focused on comebacks, which is typical for this kind of weekend format. It's really challenging for a newcomer to immediately excel when they're on a different bike for the first time.

"By the latter part of the season, we typically reached Q2 without much difficulty. This shift allows for a change in weekend strategy, enabling us to focus more extensively on improving race pace and other aspects."

"The most significant change over the course of the year was that."

Following five second-place finishes in Sprints and three in Grands Prix, Marquez ended his 1,000-day MotoGP winless streak by achieving an impeccable performance during the 12th round in Aragon.

Carchedi pondered whether an earlier first win might have changed the course of events.

In Jerez, I have vivid memories, though not all are pleasant. While we were in the lead during the Sprint, we hit a wet spot and crashed. This incident slightly impacted our performance in the main race, where Marquez narrowly lost to Francesco Bagnaia, finishing in second place.

"We were returning from Austin after experiencing a brake problem that caused us to crash while in the lead. Therefore, completing the race was crucial for us."

Following his victory in Aragon, Marquez triumphed once more at both Misano and Phillip Island, securing third place in the world championship standings, just behind the GP24 racers, Jorge Martin and Bagnaia.

However, Carchedi also noted the less apparent standout moments, like the #93's impressive showing during the high-speed right turns at the final events of the season in Sepang and Barcelona.

Carchedi clarified that Marc has typically struggled more with fast right-hand turns compared to left-hand ones. He mentioned that they conduct what is known as median analysis, focusing on race pace. This involves examining not only the quickest sectors but also the average performance.

Sepang and Catalunya are likely the two circuits he dislikes the most! Surprisingly, we recorded the fastest times in the final sector during the Catalunya race, which consists solely of rapid right-hand turns. Similarly, we achieved top speeds in Sector 1 at Sepang, known for the extremely quick turn 3.

"From our perspective, considering our starting point, it was a significant achievement on a personal level. He transformed something he initially found challenging or unpleasant into an area where he became extremely competitive."

On Monday, the complete MotoGP podcast featuring Frankie Carchedi will be available on Crash.net.

Peter has spent two decades working in the paddock, witnessing the career of Valentino Rossi from start to finish. He is closely involved in reporting on Suzuki's departure and the injury challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

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"I'm thrilled to witness the return of figures reminiscent of the Valentino era."

The year 2024 marked a historic high for MotoGP audiences, but how does it stack up against the days of Rossi?

The 2024 MotoGP World Championship set a new benchmark for season attendance, drawing in more than three million spectators.

Topping the list was a fresh 'official' weekend attendance record of 297,471 at the French Grand Prix held in Le Mans.

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Massimo Rivola, the CEO of Aprilia Racing, expressed his delight at the resurgence of [spectator] attendance, comparing it to the 'Valentino era' when the stands were packed with fans. He made these remarks following the final race test of the season in Barcelona.

How did the fan attendance at MotoGP 2024 compare to the levels observed during the 'Valentino era'?

From 2000 to 2021, Rossi competed in the top tier of racing. Although there is often discussion about the precision of attendance numbers—particularly regarding the weekend counts which tally the same individual's presence over three days as three separate attendees—official statistics have been made available starting in 2006.

However, the table below contrasts the total numbers for Sundays and weekends this year with the highest figures recorded for the same circuits during the period from 2006 to 2019, which was the last typical season for Rossi before the onset of the Covid pandemic.

While only Assen and Qatar reached a new peak for Sunday attendance this year alongside Le Mans, the growing appeal of the Saturday Sprint races might account for why three additional locations—Sachsenring, Misano, and Sepang—surpassed their best weekend records set between 2006 and 2019.

"We have tremendous potential," Rivola stated. "I am optimistic that Liberty Media will be able to add more value in 2025."

"Our performance is truly one-of-a-kind. I believe that next year will be even more impressive due to numerous changes in riders and the resurgence of competitiveness among Japanese manufacturers. I'm eagerly anticipating it."

Spectator Turnout in the MotoGP World Championship

Sunday, 202

Maximum recorded on Sundays from 2006 to

Weekend of 202

The maximum weekends from 2006

One hundred nineteen thousand

One hundred five thousand

Two hundred ninety-seven

Two hundred six thousand

One hundred eight point

One hundred five thousand

One hundred ninety-two

One hundred sixty-seven

Ninety-eight

One hundred one thousand

Two hundred fifty-two thousand eight

Two hundred thirty thousand

Eighty-nine thousand

One hundred thousand four

One hundred sixty-three

One hundred fifty-nine

Eighty-eight thousand

One hundred three thousand nine hundred

One hundred eighty-four thousand nine

One hundred seventy thousand

Eighty-five thousand

One hundred thousand two

Two hundred five thousand

Two hundred twenty-six

Eighty-one thousand

One hundred thousand six

One hundred fifty-six

One hundred sixty-four

Eighty-one thousand

One hundred thirty-two

One hundred eighty-one

Two hundred sixty-three

Seventy-six thousand

One hundred thirteen thousand

One hundred seventy-six

Two hundred five thousand

Seventy-two thousand

I'm sorry, but

One hundred seventy-four

I'm sorry, but

Sixty-seven thousand

Ninety-five

One hundred fifty thousand

Two hundred fifteen thousand

Sixty-two thousand

Certainly

One hundred thirty-four thousand eight

I'm

Sixty thousand seven

I'm sorry, but

One hundred twenty-one

I'm sorry, but

Fifty-five thousand, nine

Seventy thousand five hundred forty

One hundred seven thousand

One hundred sixteen thousand nine hundred

Forty-five thousand

I

Eighty-two thousand

I'm

Forty-four thousand

Sixty-one thousand ninety-one

One hundred twenty-two

One hundred thirty-one thousand eight

Forty-two thousand

Seventy-three thousand

One hundred seventeen thousand eight hundred

One hundred fifty-nine

The number is forty

Sixty-three thousand

Eighty thousand one

Ninety-six

Thirty-six thousand four

Fifty-three thousand

Ninety thousand

One hundred twenty-two

Fifteen thousand

Fourteen thousand five

Forty thousand three

Thirty-two thousand two

*Recurring (substitute) occasion.

For two decades, Peter has been a familiar face in the paddock and has witnessed the career of Valentino Rossi from start to finish. He is currently at the center of the narrative surrounding Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's struggles with injury.

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Francesco Bagnaia: Equal Footing with Marc Marquez as the Benchmark

"Should one of us gain the lead while the other lags behind as the season progresses, it's essential to support the leading rider"

Francesco Bagnaia has dismissed remarks made by his new team-mate Marc Marquez suggesting that as a two-time MotoGP champion, Bagnaia begins 2025 with a higher 'status' in the Ducati team, being considered the 'benchmark' within the squad.

However, Bagnaia, who fell short of securing his third consecutive title by a mere ten points to Jorge Martin this season, noted that the situation could shift if a significant gap in the championship standings between the teammates became apparent.

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"Rationally speaking, the one in control and making the decisions is Pecco," said Marquez, who secured six MotoGP championships with Honda from 2013 to 2019, in a recent statement.

"Given that Pecco has secured two world championships for Ducati, including triumphing in eleven races last season, it stands to reason that he should be the primary decision-maker during this pre-season and the initial races."

"I'll make an effort to narrow the gap with him since he's the benchmark, the racer who brought Ducati back to championship glory, and who is moving at an impressive speed."

Inquired about his remarks during Ducati's 'Champions in Celebration' event in Bologna on Tuesday night, Motorsport.com reports Bagnaia's response as:

I'm convinced that ultimately, the 'top spots' in the ranking are unoccupied and rightfully shouldn't be.

"Each season kicks off anew, providing all riders with an equal opportunity, and I hold the view that as the season progresses, dynamics shift because it's always a fresh start."

"I'm convinced it's identical in nature, that when during the season one competitor is leading [in the championship] and another lags behind, efforts must be made to assist the frontrunner."

"I believe that Marc, as a remarkably smart individual, quickly grasped the nature of our environment and our working methodology."

"During the trial run in Barcelona, we collaborated effectively, and if we maintain this momentum, we're certainly headed in the right direction."

Bagnaia and Marquez secured the third and fourth quickest times, respectively, while testing a prototype of next year’s GP25 at the Barcelona trials.

The Italian believed that switching locations, following the cancellation of the Valencia event, was advantageous for trial objectives.

"This season in Barcelona, the circuit has improved significantly for testing from various perspectives: it's among the locations with the highest maximum speeds in the World Championship, and with the grip level being low, it offers an opportunity to evaluate a wider range of aspects," he detailed.

"Marc and I shared a mutual sentiment, which was incredibly beneficial, as we swiftly pinpointed areas for improvement. We recognized both our strengths and weaknesses."

"Ultimately, it became simpler for both the engineers and Gigi to discern the route that would better prepare them for their arrival in Malaysia."

The scheduled Sepang trial is set for February 5th to 7th, 2025.

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Jorge Martin and the CEO of Ducati discuss a potential future collaboration

"We have a fondness for Martin; our separation was amicable, and the future in two years is open to possibilities."

The future will reveal whether Ducati will rue the decision to let newly crowned MotoGP world champion Jorge Martin leave its premier team for Aprilia.

However, it seems both sides are receptive to the possibility of coming back together in the future, potentially during the upcoming MotoGP contract period in two years.

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"Martin holds a special place in our hearts, and our separation was amicable. The future, especially two years from now, is open-ended. Could he make a comeback to Ducati? It's certainly possible; he's an exceptional talent, and we're always in pursuit of talent," shared Ducati's Chief Executive Officer, Claudio Domenicali, with Sky at the 'Campioni in Festa' event in Bologna on Tuesday evening.

"Martin expressed his gratitude towards Ducati, hinting at a potential reunion in the future, as quoted by Motorsport.com during the event."

Regrettably, we couldn't manage to secure our spot with Ducati for the upcoming year. Nonetheless, it was a pleasant experience. Personally, it would have been a dream come true, but we were unable to make it happen.

"Looking ahead, I believe Aprilia shows promise. Despite clinching the title, I feel there's still much more I can achieve in this sport."

When questioned about what he will most fondly remember about Ducati, the company that launched his MotoGP career in 2020, the youthful Spaniard responded:

"Initially, opting for the bicycle is my choice, since I'll be using another one. However, as time progresses, I'll evaluate what's lacking."

"I'll carry forward the knowledge gained from competing against formidable riders such as Pecco, along with a working approach that could benefit me going forward."

During his first appearance with Aprilia at the Barcelona MotoGP Test last month, Martin secured the 11th quickest time, trailing Alex Marquez of Gresini Ducati by 1.056 seconds.

Francesco Bagnaia, alongside his new Ducati factory team counterpart Marc Marquez, secured the third and fourth fastest times during the testing session, utilizing a preliminary model of next year's GP25.

Domenicali praised the exceptional promise of the official team's latest rider duo, featuring Bagnaia and Marquez, who together hold nine MotoGP championships, though he acknowledged that handling them could be challenging.

"Domenicali conveyed to Sky that managing a team with two colossal champions presents an inherent challenge due to its complexity. He likened them to supersonic jets, which are hard to pilot yet unmatched in velocity. The possibilities, he noted, are astounding."

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Vintage Ducati MotoGP bike hits the market at a six-figure cost

Invest substantially in this legendary motorcycle

A vintage Ducati from the MotoGP series is going up for sale.

The bicycle is being auctioned off at Sotheby's in New York, with an estimated price range of $400,000 to $800,000.

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The Ducati GP6 was previously owned by Loris Capirossi.

Capirossi secured the top qualifying spot and emerged victorious at the 2007 Japanese MotoGP in Motegi riding this motorcycle. It marked his last win on the racing circuit.

This motorcycle is one of only four '990' GP Ducatis that competed over its four-year racing span.

Acquired straight from the Ducati factory in 2007, it retains the Valencia season-ending scrutineer sticker in perfect condition.

In late 2007, Casey Stoner clinched the MotoGP championship riding for Ducati.

Thus, for the Italian maker, this bicycle represented a progression along their path.

This signifies a device from an era prior to the dominance of Ducati's Desmosedici period.

Should you have the financial means, you could potentially take the bike back to your place…

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

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Aprilia: "We have high expectations for Raul" | "At times, we had to be stern"

"Occasionally, we had to adopt a stricter approach… Encouraging him to persist with techniques he might not prefer, yet we understand are more efficient."

The factory Aprilia team will see a completely fresh roster, and with Ai Ogura making his debut at Trackhouse, Raul Fernandez will stand out as the sole MotoGP competitor beginning the upcoming season with prior racing knowledge on an RS-GP.

Fernandez has experienced a remarkable reversal of fortunes, starting the season as the sole Aprilia competitor on the 2023 model despite facing uncertainties about his career following his 22nd (Tech3 KTM) and 20th (RNF Aprilia) finishes in his earlier top-tier races.

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Fernandez produced some crucial performances on the older model bike, notably taking a brief lead in the Catalunya Sprint and securing a sixth-place finish in the Grand Prix.

The motorcycle racing scene accelerated rapidly when Aleix Espargaro revealed his plans to retire, Jorge Martin inked a new deal, and Maverick Vinales announced his departure.

Fernandez maintained his strong performance, securing an eighth-place finish at Assen, followed by a front row start in Germany, which marked his last race before switching to the 2024 specification components.

The Spanish individual was keen to unite with the rest on the newest device.

However, after accumulating 46 points across nine races on the 2023 motorcycle, his performance dipped to only 20 points across 11 competitions on the 2024 model, resulting in a 16th place finish in the rankings.

"Aprilia's CEO, Massimo Rivola, expressed high expectations for Raul in his conversation with MotoGP.com."

"By 2024, our hopes were already high. However, he switched bikes mid-season, which led to a lack of confidence in the newer [2024] model."

"Let's also remember he was absent from the Sepang test initially due to an injury."

"I believe Raul has the potential to perform exceptionally well, and clearly, it's our responsibility to provide him with a superior motorcycle."

Rivola also suggested that Fernandez should distinguish between looking for a bike configuration that feels more comfortable and one that actually delivers superior performance.

"Rivola mentioned, "Occasionally, riders might steer you towards choosing a bike that suits their riding preferences better, even if it's not the quickest option on the track."

"At times, we had to be firm and confident in our convictions, urging him to persist with an approach he might not favor, but one we understood to be more efficient."

"Therefore, I believe this task will be our primary focus for the coming year, and I anticipate our newly appointed technical director, Fabiano Sterlacchini, to lead the charge in seeking and achieving the optimal balance."

Rivola announced that the quartet of Aprilia racers – comprising Martin and Marco Bezzecchi on the official team, along with Fernandez and Ogura at Trackhouse – will be equipped with the newest factory model motorcycles starting from the first test in 2025.

"Definitely. In Sepang, we'll be equipping all four bikes identically. This approach is truly optimal for the bike's development," Rivola stated.

"It's beneficial to see Trackhouse's dedication. Observing the Barcelona Test, it appears that introducing the two new riders, Martin and Bezzecchi, also provided a positive impact for Raul."

Fernandez emerged as the quickest rider on an Aprilia during the trial, securing the fifth position while riding the 2024 model.

Peter has spent two decades in the racetrack environment, witnessing the rise and retirement of Valentino Rossi. He is leading the coverage on Suzuki's departure from the racing scene and Marc Marquez's struggles with injuries.

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Gigi Dall'Igna highlights significant figures for MotoGP 2024

"Our achievements are genuinely extraordinary and remarkable"

During the factory's unprecedented 2024 MotoGP season, two figures are particularly noteworthy for Ducati Corse's General Manager, Gigi Dall'Igna.

However, it's not about securing victories in 19 out of 20 Grand Prix races, nor is it about Ducati claiming its third consecutive MotoGP championship and dominating the top four spots in the overall riders' rankings.

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"We've accomplished something truly remarkable and extraordinary. It's hard for me to comprehend and accept the figures we've reached," Dall'Igna was cited by Motorsport.com during its Campioni in Festa celebration in Bologna.

"I'd like to highlight a couple."

"The '14' signifies the occasions when Ducati dominated the top three positions. Recalling the thrill of our first complete podium sweep during my tenure (Valencia 2021) vividly, achieving this feat 14 times in a total of 20 races genuinely showcases our prowess.

One detail that particularly brings me joy to recall is how all Ducati racers outperformed their competitors to lead the pack during the Sprint in Thailand.

"This signifies that our bicycles outperform all rivals. It's a remarkable figure, and I must extend my gratitude once more to everyone involved in this endeavor, from our supporters at home to the teams and racers who played a role in reaching these achievements."

The sole blemish in the factory team's otherwise stellar season was the defeat of two-time defending champion Francesco Bagnaia, who lost the title to Pramac's Jorge Martin. Martin is set to move to Aprilia in the upcoming season.

Dall'Igna emphasized how Ducati showcased its commitment to fair play this year, as the brand allowed its riders to compete for the championship independently, without resorting to team strategies, assistance, or attempts to disadvantage their teams, clients, and riders.

In 2025, Marc Marquez, who has clinched three Grand Prix victories with Gresini this season, is set to team up with Bagnaia at the Ducati Lenovo team.

"Witnessing a champion like Marquez take your bike for a spin always evokes intense feelings," Dall'Igna expressed, referring to the eight-time world champion's initial trial in red at Barcelona the previous month.

Bagnaia and Marquez share the distinction of being outstanding champions, which is their most notable similarity. Their considerable experience and unwavering determination are key attributes, epitomizing the essence of a true champion.

Considering their distinct approaches, one tends to be more cautious while the other adopts a more balanced strategy during races. Nonetheless, both competitors possess the essential skills and knowledge required to clinch a world championship title.

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Marc Marquez addresses "challenging times" in "interactions with Italian supporters"

"The interactions with Italian supporters have experienced challenging times, but it's improving with each occasion"

After mending his strained ties with Italian enthusiasts through securing three wins for Gresini in the previous MotoGP season, Marc Marquez is optimistic about forging a 'positive relationship' as a factory Ducati rider in 2025.

Once a fierce competitor of Italy's iconic Valentino Rossi, Marquez has regularly encountered a challenging atmosphere at the Mugello and Misano circuits, where he has been met with considerable jeering.

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In 2024, the allegiance of the home supporters was divided when Marquez departed from Repsol Honda to join the ranks of an Italian manufacturer (Ducati) and its team (Gresini).

Despite some jeers from the crowd during the award ceremony, Marquez secured a much-celebrated win for Gresini on their home turf at Misano this year.

However, Francesco Bagnaia, who will be joining Ducati as a teammate in the future, emphasized that he believes no MotoGP competitor should be subjected to boos and taunts, while Marquez is optimistic that his rapport with the fans in Italy will see positive growth by 2025.

"At this year's 'Campioni in Festa' event in Bologna on Tuesday evening, Marquez was quoted by Motorsport.com stating, "For me, this year remains the same."

"I consistently put in effort, and I secured a victory at Misano racing for the Gresini team. This year, I'm hopeful for a strong performance at Mugello, especially with the Italian supporters watching."

Ultimately, the connection with the Italian supporters has experienced challenging periods, yet it improves with each occurrence.

"I've consistently aimed to maintain professionalism and fulfill my responsibilities. Competing for the Italian team, Gresini, restored my self-assurance."

"I compete on behalf of an Italian maker, and I'm confident we'll have a positive rapport."

When asked to compare his early battles against riders such as Rossi, Casey Stoner, Dani Pedrosa, and Jorge Lorenzo to his current competitors in MotoGP, Marquez responded:

"The competitors I race with these days are more amicable! It feels like it was just yesterday when I came here at the age of 20, a novice with much to learn, but now I've become one of the veterans."

"I genuinely enjoy this aspect. Every individual possesses a unique professional journey and narrative, yet all the young talents entering MotoGP come with immense resolve. We strive to prepare ourselves for the challenge they present, given their remarkable strength."

Marquez is set to turn 32 on February 17, just a few weeks prior to the commencement of pre-season testing at Sepang.

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Pedro Acosta, along with former MotoGP competitors, participates in an endurance race through a muddy course. The event features a 40-kilometer track that Acosta takes on.

This week, Pedro Acosta spearheaded a team of former MotoGP racers in a renowned endurance competition held on challenging ground.

Acosta participated in the 2024 Enduroc in Spain, an intense motorcycle competition that marks the end of the Spanish racing season.

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He wasn't the sole rider connected with MotoGP or the World Superbike Championship to participate and end up covered in mud.

Check out this Instagram post from Pedro Acosta (@37pedroacosta).

Among the hundreds of participants, Remy Gardner, Carlos Checa, and David Checa were also fiercely competing.

David Checa achieved the best result among these riders by securing 16th place.

Gardner finished in 23rd place, while Carlos Checha came in 33rd.

Acosta ended up securing the 68th position.

"Thank you for an amazing experience," Acosta commented.

The Enduroc event features a 40-kilometer track that participants must complete two laps of, with the total distance depending on the specific category they are competing

Josep Garcia, an expert in the field, excelled in the Enduroc 2024 competition.

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

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