Rivalry on the Horizon: MotoGP Legend Warns Bagnaia of Marquez’s Impact on Ducati’s Dominance

MotoGP icon issues stark caution to Pecco Bagnaia regarding Marc Marquez joining

"It will keep enhancing Ducati and Ducati's lead"

Kevin Schwantz has cautioned Pecco Bagnaia that he will face increased competition next season with Marc Marquez joining him as a teammate.

Marquez secured the position for Ducati's factory team in 2025 and will team up with Bagnaia in a star-studded roster.

However, their relationship will be closely scrutinized as both competitors vie for this year's championship, with both likely to have their sights set on the 2025 title as well.

“It will undoubtedly be an exceptional team,” commented Schwantz, the 500cc champion from 1993.

"With both riders sharing the same garage, the feedback they will receive from each rider given their high speeds?"

"It will be fascinating to watch. This will further strengthen Ducati and enhance their competitive edge."

“They will also continue to have satellite motorcycles.”

Jorge Martin from Pramac is presently at the top of the MotoGP championship standings as they head into the Indonesia round this weekend.

Bagnaia, along with his current factory teammate Enea Bastianini and Gresini’s Marquez, are all contenders.

Schwantz mentioned that the rivalry between Marc and Pecco is expected to persist from this year into the following season.

"You never want your teammate to outperform you. It’s tough to consider someone a good teammate if they pose a significant challenge to your own performance!"

“There’s a bit of rivalry and competition within the team. Enea Bastianini has given Bagnaia a run for his money at some tracks, but I believe Marquez will challenge him consistently every weekend.”

Aprilia requires 'the ideal racer'

Schwantz supports Aprilia's potential to compete for the title if they have Martin as their rider.

Ducati’s choice to pass over Martin for the official 2025 position led him to join Aprilia, where he will team up with Marco Bezzecchi in the coming year.

"Aprilia has performed excellently. Jorge Martin will be riding the motorcycle in 2025," commented Schwantz.

Aleix Espargaro has performed admirably and made significant improvements. Maverick Vinales is also performing well.

"When everything is perfect with the bike, it's undoubtedly the best one available!"

"This year at COTA, Aprilia emerged as the leading bike right from the initial practice session."

According to the statement, Aprilia's potential could significantly increase with a rider who is highly motivated, slightly faster, and ready to take more risks. While this isn't a critique of Maverick, it suggests that someone like Martin might be a better fit.

"They have the potential to compete for the world title."

Future World Champion Potential Seen in Pedro Acosta

Schwantz believes that Pedro Acosta has what it takes to become a world champion.

The newcomer made a sensational impact in MotoGP during the initial weeks of this season.

Acosta was quickly promoted from Tech3 to the main KTM team for the 2025 season, despite a recent decline in his outstanding performance.

Schwantz expressed confidence that Pedro has the capability to become a world champion.

"He's youthful and full of energy. Despite crashing twice in one session, he remains undeterred."

"I find many similarities between Pedro and myself."

"If he keeps maturing, increasing his speed, and refining his racing abilities, he will undoubtedly become a world champion."

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