Specialists are at odds regarding the top MotoGP ride for 2024. Our panel shares their opinions, yet the decision remains challenging.

Choosing the best MotoGP performance for 2024 is quite challenging.

From remarkable wins to surprising comebacks, and to cyclists who excelled on machines that weren't competitive enough.

Our specialists began evaluating which performance stood out as the MotoGP ride of 2024, though there are numerous contenders…

Peter McLaren: That's a tough decision! I'll go with Maverick Vinales taking the victory at the Circuit of the Americas.

In the 20 Grands Prix races, Ducati was defeated just once, and he accomplished this by battling his way up from the eleventh position.

Unfortunately, Vinales was unable to match that performance on the RS-GP once more.

Lewis Duncan reports that Francesco Bagnaia has delivered several impressive performances throughout the 2024 season. However, his race at the Malaysian Grand Prix is considered his most exceptional achievement.

Securing his 10th victory out of 11 grand prix races in 2024, this win arrived at a crucial moment. After a crash in the sprint race the previous day, he faced a 29-point gap behind Jorge Martin, making his championship aspirations seem nearly unattainable.

He had to secure a victory in the grand prix to stay in the running for the championship. He accomplished this by fending off Martin in an intense duel during the initial three laps, and then pulling away to finish more than three seconds ahead when he crossed the finish line.

Martin lost just five points, but it didn't prevent the Spanish competitor from securing the championship victory.

However, it guaranteed that Bagnaia remained in contention for the last round and showcased his capabilities when he faces intense pressure.

Jordan Moreland: Marc Marquez, Phillip Island.

Positions 2 through 13 heading into Turn 1 after a disastrous start, caused by a tear-off becoming lodged under the back tire.

In an impressive display, he managed to work his way up through the ranks and clinch victory in the race, triumphing over Jorge Martin. It's undoubtedly one of the most remarkable comeback performances you'll

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, special content, interviews, and offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email inbox.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Discover More

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the freshest updates, special features, interviews, and exclusive offers from the MotoGP paddock directly in your email.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Reports

Stay Updated on Crash F1

Keep Track of Crash MotoGP

Copying text, photos, or images, whether in whole or in part, is prohibited in any manner.

Website Layout

Crash.Net

2025 MotoGP Team Roster: The Full Line-Up

An overview of the contract status for each MotoGP rider as they gear up for the 2025 season.

Here is the complete list of MotoGP racers set to compete in the 2025 World Championship.

Ducati acted quickly to secure a long-term contract with their standout rider, Francesco Bagnaia. However, the main focus in the early stages of the rider market was the uncertainty surrounding his teammate for the 2025 season.

After what seemed to be a change in decision from Ducati, who initially seemed to favor championship front-runner Jorge Martin, Marc Marquez ultimately secured the position.

The VR46 team is set to take over as the factory-supported satellite squad, succeeding Pramac, which is moving to partner with Yamaha. Meanwhile, Fabio di Giannantonio is remaining with VR46; however, he has secured a direct contract with Ducati and will now race with factory-spec equipment.

Franco Morbidelli will join Diggia as his new team-mate, transitioning from Pramac to ride the bike that Marco Bezzecchi used last year.

In 2025, Ducati plans to introduce Fermin Aldeguer, a young and promising Moto2 racer, to the top-tier racing category. Aldeguer is set to join forces with Alex Marquez at the Gresini team, taking over the spot previously held by Marc Marquez.

KTM secured Brad Binder with a contract that extends through 2026, while rookie sensation Pedro Acosta has been confirmed to transition from Tech3 GASGAS to join the main factory team.

In an unexpected move, the Tech3 team announced a completely new roster featuring Enea Bastianini and Maverick Vinales. Additionally, they will replace the GASGAS branding with Red Bull KTM colors.

This development indicates that KTM's current racers, Jack Miller and Augusto Fernandez, will not have positions next season. There were strong rumors connecting Miller with Yamaha's upcoming Pramac initiative, while Fernandez was speculated to become a test rider for the team.

Aprilia is gearing up for significant changes in 2025, as Aleix Espargaro plans to retire by the end of this year, and Maverick Vinales has decided to join KTM Tech3.

Jorge Martin is set to take over the bike previously ridden by his close friend Espargaro, following his unsuccessful bid at Ducati. Meanwhile, Marco Bezzecchi will be joining from VR46 to take Vinales' place.

The US-supported Trackhouse underwent a rebranding, which led to Moto2 race victor Joe Roberts being associated with a potential transfer to his 'home' team. However, the agreement was ultimately secured by Ai Ogura, a contender for the Moto2 championship.

Ogura will team up with Raul Fernandez, who will be the sole Aprilia racer with previous experience competing on the RS-GP.

Yamaha made a significant move in the 2025 rider market by securing a new contract with Fabio Quartararo. It is speculated that this deal positions him as the highest-paid rider in MotoGP.

Alex Rins will also continue to be his teammate.

The factory achieved another significant victory by managing to entice Pramac, the current teams' champion, away from Ducati. This came after they missed out on VR46. Reports indicate they secured a seven-year agreement to provide factory bikes starting next season.

Miguel Oliveira has entered into a contract lasting two years with Yamaha, allowing him to race on a factory-spec Pramac motorcycle. Jack Miller has also been announced as his teammate, having agreed to a one-year contract.

Honda

Luca Marini has agreed to a two-year deal to take over Marc Marquez's position with Repsol Honda, while Johann Zarco will remain with LCR through 2025.

In the middle of 2024, Joan Mir accepted a new two-year contract with Repsol Honda, even though he had previously voiced his dissatisfaction with the RC213V's slow technical advancements.

Takaaki Nakagami from LCR is no longer under contract. Although the agreement with Ogura's Trackhouse eased some tension, Thai Moto2 standout Somkiat Chantra is set to fill his position.

Nakagami is set to take on the role of an HRC test rider in Japan and will also join a few MotoGP races as a wild-card entry.

In 2025, Aleix Espargaro is set to take on the roles of a test rider and a wild-card competitor for

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent MotoGP updates, special content, interviews, and offers straight from the paddock, delivered right to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

For two decades, Peter has been a constant presence in the paddock, witnessing both the arrival and departure of Valentino Rossi. He is currently at the center of the developments concerning Suzuki's withdrawal and the injury challenges faced by Marc Marquez.

Discover More

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest MotoGP updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the racetrack straight to your email.

To learn further details, please refer to our Privacy

Recent Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

It is prohibited to fully or partially copy text, images, or drawings in any manner.

Website Map

Crash.Net

Honda has been advised that the situation is "not solely about finances" as Aleix Espargaro spearheads a testing resurgence. Meanwhile, Pol Espargaro outlines strategies for Honda's revitalization.

Former rider Pol Espargaro has cautioned Honda that financial investment alone won't bring them back to the top in MotoGP.

Pol's sibling, Aleix Espargaro, is set to step away from competitive racing and take on the role of a test rider for HRC in 2025, bringing significant expertise to the team.

Honda has been experiencing difficulties for a number of years, as shown by Marc Marquez's decision to leave.

Pol Espargaro, who teamed up with Marquez at the factory Honda team for two years, expressed, "They are putting in the effort. I am aware of their dedication."

"It's not solely about the effort, the resources, or the financial means you possess to achieve the outcome."

"It's not related to that!"

"It's the combination of all aspects – how do you operate? How is the team structured? What is the approach to testing? Testing has become a crucial element in this sport today."

"The competitors participate in two races each weekend, leaving them with no opportunity to conduct tests during the race weekend. This might have been possible in the past."

"It is crucial to have a robust testing team. I've observed that this plays a significant role in the advancement of manufacturing companies."

"The standards are elevated, and the technology is highly sophisticated."

"Hard to fathom the stress"

Aleix Espargaro has concluded his long MotoGP career and departed from Aprilia to concentrate on testing for Honda.

Pol, Aleix's brother, mentioned that Aleix had been searching for something similar.

"It's quite challenging to fathom the daily pressure these individuals face to deliver results."

During race weekends and in their daily lives, they constantly strive to excel, regularly challenging themselves with the question, 'What can I do to improve?'

Aleix found himself overwhelmed with thoughts about his future plans and decisions.

He desires to spend time with his family. Additionally, he enjoys cycling and wishes to accomplish something before age becomes a limiting factor.

"After spending numerous years in the paddock, he desires to explore new pursuits in life, which is quite reasonable."

"Joining Honda with the aim of bringing them back to victory and success, reaching the pinnacle once more, is an incredible objective and an exciting journey."

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest MotoGP updates, special content, interviews, and offers from the racing world straight to your email inbox.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

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

Explore Further

Join Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Track Crash F1

Track Crash MotoGP

It is prohibited to reproduce any part of the text, photos, or illustrations, either completely or partially, in any way.

Site Map

Crash.Net

Reflecting on Valentino Rossi's Groundbreaking Yamaha MotoGP Championship Two Decades Later

Crash.net engages in a conversation with Davide Brivio to commemorate two decades since Valentino Rossi clinched his inaugural MotoGP championship with Yamaha.

In 2024, MotoGP marked its 75th year since the inaugural grand prix season began in 1949. Over the decades, the world championship has been influenced by numerous significant events. A notable instance occurred two decades ago in 2004, when Valentino Rossi secured his fourth title in the top class.

At that stage, Rossi had become a dominant figure in motorcycle racing. In only his second season, he secured the last championship of the 500cc era in 2001 while riding for Honda. As the MotoGP transitioned to four-stroke engines, Rossi continued his winning streak on the factory Honda RC211V.

In 2002, Rossi secured victories in 11 grand prix races and claimed second place in all the others, except for one race where he did not score. This impressive performance led him to easily clinch his second premier class championship. The following year, in 2003, he continued his dominance by achieving nine wins, which earned him his third title in a similar

While Rossi's brilliance was celebrated globally, the enthusiasm wasn't echoed at Honda's headquarters in Japan. According to HRC, Rossi's achievements were attributed entirely to the RC211V motorcycle. Understandably, this perspective didn't resonate with the large egos that motorcycle racers typically possess.

Throughout 2003, Rossi's management team started secretively negotiating with Yamaha. To maintain confidentiality, they went to extreme measures. Former team manager Davide Brivio recounted an incident from years ago where he and Lin Jarvis had to hide under a table, fearing someone was about to come into the tent where they were meeting.

An agreement was finally secured for Rossi to join Yamaha in 2004. However, Honda was not willing to make the transition smooth for the Italian rider. They enforced his HRC contract until it officially ended, preventing him from testing the M1 motorcycle until the beginning months of 2004.

As Yamaha and Valentino Rossi's team negotiated the financial terms of their agreement and decided which team members would accompany the Italian racer, there was also a cultural mindset within the Japanese company. This approach was similar to Honda's thinking and had the potential to prevent this significant move from happening.

During our conversation with Brivio for Crash.net about Rossi's 2004 championship, he revealed, "When discussions were underway with Valentino, Yamaha had a distinct mindset. There were individuals within Yamaha who opposed bringing Valentino on board, arguing that as a multiple world champion, if Valentino joined and Yamaha failed to secure a victory, the blame would fall on Yamaha."

"If victory is ours, the credit goes to Valentino, leaving us with no advantage as a brand." This was one perspective. Reflecting on the organization's mindset at the time: the emphasis was on the motorcycle's significance. An insider at Yamaha expressed the belief that they didn't require Valentino, as they were confident in creating a bike so exceptional and powerful that it could secure wins with any rider."

The issue with that perspective was that Yamaha had not yet developed a powerful enough motorcycle in the four-stroke era to secure a championship victory. By the conclusion of 2003, Yamaha hadn't claimed a title since Wayne Rainey's success in the 1992 500cc season. Following that, Suzuki captured two championships in 1993 and 2000, while Honda dominated the remaining titles with victories by Mick Doohan, Alex Criville, and Valentino Rossi.

During the 2002 and 2003 MotoGP seasons, Rossi clinched back-to-back championships, while Yamaha struggled significantly, managing only two grand prix victories. Yamaha's performance was so lackluster that Rossi signed with the team for 2004, despite them not securing any wins in 2003. Their sole podium finish that year was a third place at the French Grand Prix, achieved by Alex Barros. In the overall standings, Carlos Checa was the highest-ranked Yamaha rider, trailing Rossi by a substantial 234 points.

In 2004, it appeared unlikely that Rossi would come close to competing for the championship. However, crew chief Jeremy Burgess, utilizing the expertise that enhanced the RC211V's performance, pinpointed the necessary improvements for the M1. Masao Furusawa, Yamaha's technical head, developed a new 'big bang' inline-four engine, while Burgess adjusted the bike's dimensions and fine-tuned the electronics to enhance braking and optimize the M1's cornering capabilities.

At the inaugural race of the 2004 season in South Africa, Yamaha and Rossi arrived with a significantly enhanced M1 motorcycle. They successfully secured both the pole position and victory in the race, with Rossi triumphing over his fierce competitor Max Biaggi, who was riding a Honda managed by Pons, in an exciting duel. Rossi emerged victorious, leading a group of RC211V riders, with Biaggi at the forefront, followed by Sete Gibernau, Barros, and Nicky Hayden.

During the cooldown lap, Rossi paused to sit beside his new motorcycle and contemplate the challenges he had just overcome. After this brief reflection, he focused back on his task. In 2004, he went on to secure eight additional victories and clinched the championship with one race remaining in Australia. This achievement made him the first rider since Eddie Lawson in 1989 to win consecutive championships with different brands, as Lawson had switched from Yamaha to Honda to accomplish this feat.

In 2005, Rossi and Yamaha demonstrated overwhelming superiority. Rossi claimed victory in 11 races and secured a podium finish in all except one, decisively outpacing Honda’s Marco Melandri by 147 points. It was evident that the M1 had become the premier motorcycle in MotoGP. However, Brivio contends that Yamaha also showed that even the best motorcycle needs an exceptional rider to truly shine.

Brivio explains that back in 2002 and 2003, the prevailing mindset was that the motorcycle was the most crucial component, regardless of who was riding it. However, by bringing Valentino to Yamaha, they demonstrated that both the bike and the rider play vital roles in the sport. He expresses pride in this achievement, as he believes it helped restore some value to the human element in racing. Although he acknowledges that, as someone working for a manufacturer, he might not be supposed to say this, he feels that their actions at that time helped level the playing field between the importance of the bike and the rider.

"This stands out as a great memory. We really had a lot of fun and enjoyment. It was a situation similar to imagining Pecco Bagnaia leaving Ducati due to dissatisfaction, joining a struggling manufacturer, and then clinching the title the following year. That was the scenario back then, making it a significant event. It was truly wonderful. We enjoyed ourselves immensely, and I gained a lot from the experience. I must acknowledge that Valentino transformed the mindset and culture within Yamaha regarding racing."

In 2005, the Yamaha rider closest to Rossi in the rankings was his teammate from the factory team, Colin Edwards, who finished in fourth place. Edwards trailed by 188 points and only managed to secure three podium finishes. Similarly, in 2004, the next Yamaha rider behind Rossi was Carlos Checa, who was 187 points behind and had only one podium finish.

Between 2004 and 2007, Valentino Rossi was the only Yamaha rider to secure victories with the M1. It was not until 2008, when newcomer Jorge Lorenzo joined the team, that Yamaha had two competitive riders vying for wins on their bikes.

Brivio believes that if Rossi had not joined in 2004, Yamaha would have continued with its traditional approach, focusing heavily on the motorcycle itself with the expectation that this strategy would eventually attract a leading rider.

Brivio suggests that if Valentino hadn't joined the team in 2004, Yamaha likely would have still attempted to develop a competitive bike. However, this process might have been more prolonged, as they would have needed to build trust with top riders first. In such a scenario, they might have tried to attract a leading rider to Yamaha over the next few years to secure a win. This could have delayed successes, potentially bringing in someone like Jorge Lorenzo later, or another top rider, possibly achieving victory two, three, or even four years down the line.

Certainly, if Rossi hadn't joined the team, Burgess wouldn't have been present to identify the issues that limited the M1's performance. Throughout 2003, Yamaha faced persistent challenges, leading to speculation about its potential withdrawal from MotoGP. Looking back, it's difficult to imagine how Yamaha could have turned things around without Rossi leading the charge.

The collaboration between Rossi and Yamaha resulted in two additional championships, achieved in 2008 and 2009. However, the era of Lorenzo began, leading him to claim the championship title three times from 2010 to 2015. At the conclusion of 2010, Rossi parted ways with Yamaha due to escalating tensions with Lorenzo. The Italian rider then embarked on an unsuccessful tenure with Ducati in 2011 and 2012.

Rossi and Burgess achieved success at Yamaha that could not be duplicated when they moved to Ducati. At that time, Ducati's race department was resistant to change. However, this changed in 2014 with the appointment of Gigi Dall’Igna as their general manager. His leadership marked the start of a transformation for Ducati, ultimately leading them to dominate the modern MotoGP scene.

In 2013, Rossi made a comeback to Yamaha and nearly clinched a fifth championship with the team in 2015. He continued to ride for Yamaha until he retired from MotoGP at the close of the 2021 season.

Although victories became scarce during the latter part of his MotoGP career, Rossi's status as a legend remains firmly established. A significant factor contributing to this enduring legacy is his monumental switch to Yamaha two decades ago.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent MotoGP updates, special features, interviews, and offers straight from the paddock right in your email inbox.

Please refer to our Privacy Policy for further details.

Breaking Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Copying or reproducing text, images, or drawings in full or in part is prohibited in any manner.

Website Layout

Crash.Net

Fabio Quartararo discusses Yamaha's major transformation in MotoGP for 2024

The 2021 world champion shares insights on a transformative year for Yamaha

Fabio Quartararo highlights that the most significant progress for the underperforming Yamaha MotoGP team in 2024 was a shift in mindset.

Yamaha is currently undergoing a period of reconstruction, transitioning from competing for the championship as late as 2022 to experiencing consecutive seasons without a single victory.

Yamaha's adoption of a revised concessions framework enabled ongoing engine enhancements throughout the season. Quartararo observed that the brand demonstrated a greater readiness to deploy fresh engines immediately upon their completion.

This marked a departure from Yamaha's usual method, and the common practice among Japanese makers, of waiting to release new components until they were completely perfected.

A crucial element of this transition was the introduction of Max Bartolini as the technical director.

"Indeed, I anticipated some improvement in speed, but what truly made a difference in the early part of the season wasn't just the bike's upgrade. It was crucial how we shifted our approach and mindset," he mentioned.

"The concessions were beneficial too. As soon as one engine performed well, we immediately had it for the following race."

We didn't need to postpone for the bicycle to undergo testing to ensure its safety. If it operates correctly, we install it.

"In the initial phase, it went one way, but as we moved into the latter half, I believe we achieved significant progress in certain aspects, notably within the electronics sector."

In response to Crash.net's inquiry about whether Yamaha has shed its previous mindset, he confirmed, "Definitely. As long as I'm involved, it will remain that way."

"If it doesn't, it won't be able to keep up. However, we've made adjustments this year. Therefore, it will be able to keep up in the upcoming years since we believe we've progressed slightly."

Yamaha's motorcycle innovation is set to accelerate for the 2025 season, thanks to a collaboration with Pramac that will see an additional two factory M1 motorcycles enter the competition.

For the first time since the conclusion of the 2022 season, when RNF transitioned to Aprilia, Yamaha will once again support a satellite team.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent MotoGP updates, special content, conversations, and offers straight from the circuit to your email.

For further details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Bulletin

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP developments, special content, conversations, and special offers straight from the track to your email.

Visit our Privacy Policy for additional details.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Reproducing the text, photos, or illustrations, whether wholly or partially, is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Website Directory

Collision.Net

Ducati's Unprecedented Success in 2024 MotoGP, By the Numbers

In 2024, Ducati set new benchmarks by leading the pack in MotoGP competition.

The 2024 MotoGP championship will go down in history for Ducati's complete supremacy, as it surged ahead to clinch yet another global title.

Since its introduction to MotoGP in 2003, amidst a period of Japanese supremacy in the sport, Ducati has experienced a rollercoaster of significant triumphs and challenges over the past twenty years.

In 2003, it kicked off its inaugural year with a victory, and by 2007, Casey Stoner had secured the Italian brand's initial world championship.

As Stoner kept achieving victories in the following years, capturing the championship became increasingly challenging due to the Desmosedici's complexities. Ducati reached its lowest point when Stoner departed in 2011.

The much-anticipated acquisition of Valentino Rossi only resulted in three podium finishes over two seasons, after which the MotoGP icon made his comeback to Yamaha in 2013.

As the year came to a close, Ducati hired Gigi Dall’Igna away from Aprilia to serve as general manager, aiming to revitalize the brand. Although progress took time, by 2016 Ducati had returned to winning races, contended for the championship until the last race in 2017, and consistently remained at the forefront of competition up through 2022.

Francesco Bagnaia made a remarkable comeback, erasing a 91-point gap halfway through the season to clinch the 2022 championship. He continued his impressive performance by securing the runner-up position in 2023, during which Ducati emerged as the leading powerhouse in MotoGP.

In 2024, it secured victories in 19 out of 20 Grand Prix races, establishing a new historical benchmark in MotoGP.

Ducati riders secured all three top spots on the podium 14 times during Sunday races, setting a new record.

In 2024, Ducati's team, consisting of eight riders, six contributed to earning 53 podium finishes and securing 16 pole positions, with a streak of 66 races where they consistently finished on the podium.

Ducati made certain that at least one of its riders finished in the top three in every sprint race.

By the close of 2024, Ducati has achieved a total of 106 grand prix wins, marking it as the sole European brand in MotoGP history to exceed 100 victories.

In the previous season, Ducati celebrated its fifth consecutive victory in the constructors' championship, with its affiliate team, Pramac, securing the teams' championship.

Jorge Martin secured his position as the brand's third global champion, achieving his initial top-tier championship following his tenure with the Pramac team.

"Ducati's supremacy, showcased through its motorcycles, racers, and technical team during the 2024 MotoGP season, will be eternally cherished by enthusiasts of the sport," stated Claudio Domenicali, the CEO of Ducati.

"I'm truly delighted for Jorge, an exceptional rider who developed alongside Ducati and achieved his childhood dream with our support."

"Following the wild excitement of 2022 and the 'achievement of enlightenment' in 2023, today we are here to honor the success of a framework: the 'Ducati System'."

A methodology influenced by the principles of Galileo Galilei, who is credited with founding the scientific method and contemporary science.

"A methodology that has propelled us to the forefront of track-racing contests, and is likewise utilized in our product research, design, and development, allowing us to showcase Italian engineering globally with pride."

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the racing circuit straight to your email.

Refer to our Privacy Policy for additional details.

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP developments, behind-the-scenes exclusives, one-on-one conversations, and special offers straight from the track to your email.

For additional details, please consult our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

Copying, in whole or in part, text, photos, or illustrations is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Website Directory

Crash.Net

Johann Zarco Believes He Can Elevate His Performance in MotoGP

The French Rider Expresses Confidence in His Ability to Adjust

Johann Zarco is confident that he can continue to improve in MotoGP despite being further along in his career, as he always maintains a mindset that his past actions were not necessarily correct.

The two-time Moto2 world champion has been competing in the top division since 2017, starting his journey with the Tech3 Yamaha team.

Discover More: How Honda Identified Its Genuine MotoGP Champion in 2024

After enjoying a somewhat consistent presence on the podium for two years, Zarco faced a challenging 2019 season with KTM, which nearly brought his career to a halt. However, he managed to revive his fortunes by joining Ducati in 2020.

In 2023, Zarco clinched his inaugural MotoGP victory riding for Pramac Ducati. The following year, he transitioned to the LCR Honda team, quickly establishing himself as the top competitor for the Japanese brand.

Zarco secured Honda's top result of the year with an eighth-place finish at the Thai GP, consistently showcasing impressive speed in single laps.

As the 2024 season concluded, Zarco reflected on his ability to adjust to the RC213V, focusing on enhancing his riding strengths and addressing areas where the Honda excels to reduce time.

In response to a question about maintaining flexibility throughout his career, Zarco stated: "I prefer to maintain this mindset and I believe that keeping this perspective will assist me in achieving the pinnacle, or returning to it, as I've observed that there are certain riders who have the capability to accomplish things that others do not.

"This is the reason I'm hesitant to convince myself that my actions or past behaviors were justified."

"It was correct, yet perhaps not sufficiently so in the current context."

"Thus, I'm confident that certain insights will resonate strongly with both my mind and body. And when they do, I'm certain I will rise to the occasion."

Zarco is set to continue his partnership with Honda until the conclusion of 2025 under his existing contract.

He concluded the previous season ranked 17th in the standings, holding a 24-point advantage over the next highest-placed Honda rider, his LCR teammate Takaaki Nakagami.

The Honda factory team members, Joan Mir and Luca Marini, ended up at the lowest positions in the standings.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive up-to-date MotoGP updates, exclusive content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the racetrack to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Discover More

Sign up for our MotoGP Bulletin

Receive up-to-date MotoGP information, unique content, one-on-one interviews, and special offers straight from the racetrack to your email.

For additional details, refer to our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

Copying or replicating the text, photos, or images in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Website Directory

Crash.Net

Fabio Quartararo discusses the major transformation at Yamaha for MotoGP 2024. The 2021 world champion shares his thoughts on a year marked by significant changes at Yamaha.

Fabio Quartararo believes that the most significant advancement for Yamaha's underperforming MotoGP team in 2024 was a shift in their mindset.

Yamaha is currently undergoing a restructuring period, having transitioned from being a strong contender for the championship as recently as 2022 to experiencing two consecutive seasons without any victories.

Yamaha implemented a new concessions system that enabled ongoing engine updates throughout the season. Quartararo observed that the brand was more open to deploying new engines as they became ready.

This marked a departure from Yamaha's usual strategy, as well as the typical method of Japanese manufacturers, who typically wait to launch new components until they are completely perfected.

An important element of this transition has been the appointment of Max Bartolini as the technical director.

He stated that he anticipated the performance improvements to occur a bit more quickly. However, during the early part of the season, the crucial aspect wasn't just the bike's enhancement but the shift in our work approach, which significantly helped in altering our mindset.

"The adjustments made a difference, in my opinion. As soon as we had one engine functioning properly, we had it ready to use in the following race."

"We didn't need to delay testing the bike for safety reasons. As long as it functions, we implement it."

"In the first half, things unfolded in a certain way, but in the second half, we succeeded in making significant improvements, particularly in the electronics sector."

When questioned by Crash.net about whether Yamaha's previous mindset has finally changed, he responded, "Yes. At least as long as I'm involved, that's how it will be."

"If it doesn't, it won't be able to keep up. However, we only made the switch this year. Therefore, it will align in the coming years since we believe we've made some minor progress."

Yamaha's motorcycle advancements are set to accelerate in 2025, thanks to a collaboration with Pramac that will introduce two additional factory M1 bikes.

This marks Yamaha's return to having a satellite team for the first time since the conclusion of the 2022 season, following RNF's move to partner with Aprilia.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, special content, interviews, and offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email inbox.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Informed with Crash MotoGP

Copying or duplicating the text, pictures, or drawings, either fully or in part, is prohibited in any manner.

Site Map

Crash.Net

Ducati's Commanding Performance in 2024 MotoGP Season

In the 2024 MotoGP season, Ducati set new benchmarks with its overwhelming success.

The 2024 MotoGP season is likely to be noted for Ducati's overwhelming supremacy as it clinched yet another world championship.

Since its introduction in 2003, against the backdrop of Japanese supremacy in MotoGP, Ducati has experienced significant peaks and valleys over the past twenty years.

It began its journey with a victory in 2003 during its inaugural year, and later, Casey Stoner achieved the Italian brand's first world championship in 2007.

As Stoner kept securing victories with the bike in the following years, the championship became increasingly elusive due to the challenging nature of the Desmosedici. When Stoner departed in 2011, Ducati experienced its lowest point.

Valentino Rossi's much-anticipated signing resulted in only three podium finishes over two seasons, leading the MotoGP icon to make his way back to Yamaha in 2013.

Towards the conclusion of that year, Ducati recruited Gigi Dall’Igna from Aprilia to serve as the general manager, aiming to revitalize the brand's performance. Although the progress was gradual, Ducati achieved race victories once more by 2016, contended for the championship up to the last race in 2017, and consistently maintained a leading position until 2022.

Francesco Bagnaia managed to erase a 91-point gap halfway through the season to secure the 2022 championship. He continued his success by winning again in 2023, during a period when Ducati established itself as the leading power in MotoGP.

In 2024, it set a new MotoGP record by winning 19 out of 20 grand prix races.

Ducati riders completely dominated the podium on Sundays a total of 14 times, setting a new record.

In the year 2024, Ducati's team, consisting of six out of its eight riders, secured a total of 53 podium finishes and claimed 16 pole positions. Additionally, the team has maintained a streak of podium appearances in 66

Ducati managed to have at least one of its riders finish on the podium in each sprint race.

By the conclusion of 2024, Ducati has accumulated 106 grand prix wins, establishing itself as the sole European company in MotoGP history to exceed one hundred victories.

In the previous season, Ducati secured its fifth consecutive constructors’ championship, and the Ducati-affiliated team, Pramac, clinched the teams’ championship.

Jorge Martin achieved his first premier class title, becoming the third world champion for the marque after his time with Pramac.

"The 2024 MotoGP season showcased Ducati's overwhelming superiority through their motorcycles, riders, and technical team, leaving a lasting impression on the sport's enthusiasts," stated Ducati's CEO, Claudio Domenicali.

"I am thrilled for Jorge, an exceptionally skilled racer who developed his career with Ducati and, alongside us, fulfilled the dream he had cherished since childhood."

Following the exhilarating excitement of 2022 and the achievement of heightened consciousness in 2023, we are now eager to honor the success of what we call the "Ducati System."

A framework influenced by the lessons of Galileo Galilei, who is credited with developing the scientific method and laying the groundwork for contemporary science.

"A method that has propelled us to excel in track-racing events, and one that we also utilize in the study, creation, and advancement of our products, showcasing Italian engineering with pride on a global scale."

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent MotoGP updates, special content, interviews, and offers from the paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Discover More

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, special content, interviews, and offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email inbox.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Breaking Headlines

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Updated with Crash MotoGP

It is prohibited to fully or partially copy text, images, or drawings in any manner.

Site Map

Crash.Net

Why Johann Zarco Believes He Can Still Make Progress in MotoGP

The French rider discusses his confidence in his versatile skills.

Johann Zarco is confident that he can continue to improve in MotoGP despite reaching a later stage in his career. He attributes this potential for growth to his mindset of never taking his past actions as unquestionably correct.

The two-time Moto2 world champion entered the top-tier category in 2017, marking his debut with the Tech3 Yamaha team.

Discover more: How Honda Identified its Genuine MotoGP Leader in 2024

After spending two years frequently reaching the podium, his 2019 season with KTM was so poor that it nearly concluded his career. However, in 2020, Zarco found a fresh start with Ducati.

Following his inaugural MotoGP victory in 2023 with Pramac Ducati, Zarco transitioned to LCR Honda for the 2024 season, emerging as the top performer for the Japanese manufacturer.

Zarco achieved Honda's top result of the season by finishing eighth at the Thai Grand Prix, consistently showcasing impressive speed in individual laps.

As the 2024 campaign concluded, Zarco discussed his ability to adjust to the RC213V. He focused on enhancing the strengths of his riding style while addressing areas of improvement, taking advantage of the Honda's time-saving capabilities.

When questioned about maintaining flexibility throughout his career, Zarco stated, "I enjoy maintaining this mindset, and I am confident that it will assist me in achieving or regaining a top position, as I notice that some riders have the capability to accomplish things, while others do not."

"That's the reason I avoid convincing myself that my actions, past or present, were justified."

"It was correct, although perhaps not entirely correct for today."

"I'm confident that certain things will start to make sense both mentally and physically for me. When that happens, I'm certain I'll be able to perform better."

Zarco is set to continue with Honda under his existing contract until the conclusion of 2025.

He finished the previous season ranked 17th in points, standing 24 points ahead of the next highest-ranking Honda rider, his LCR teammate Takaaki Nakagami.

Honda's factory team riders, Joan Mir and Luca Marini, ended up at the lowest positions in the rankings.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent updates, unique content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Explore Further

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the most recent updates, special content, interviews, and offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email inbox.

To learn more, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Current Updates

Additional Headlines

Stay Updated on Crash F1

Keep Up with Crash MotoGP

Copying any portion of the text, images, or drawings, whether in full or in part, is prohibited in any manner.

Site Layout

Crash.Net

Jorge Martin acknowledges three MotoGP competitors for enhancing his skills during the 2024 championship race

“Whenever one didn't stand out, another was always in contention to win…”

Jorge Martin has acknowledged his top three rivals in the MotoGP championship for contributing to his improvement as a rider, which ultimately led him to secure the 2024 world title.

Martin clinched his initial top-tier championship after a season-long contest that remained undecided until the final race, with the ex-Pramac competitor securing victory by a margin of 10 points.

The Spanish racer made history as the first rider from a private team to clinch the championship in the contemporary period, joining the ranks of Ducati's world champions alongside Francesco Bagnaia and Casey Stoner as the third to achieve this feat.

Insight: Initial Optimism Observed in Jorge Martin's Maiden Aprilia MotoGP Trial

As the 2024 season approached its climax, Martin and Bagnaia stood out as the leading contenders, with Bagnaia securing 11 grand prix victories compared to the ultimate world champion, Martin's, three throughout the season.

On occasion, Martin found himself in direct competition with Gresni's Marc Marquez and the official Ducati competitor, Enea Bastianini, who rounded out the leading quartet in the rankings, following the front-runners.

"Martin mentioned that Pecco Bagnaia, Marc Marquez, and Enea Bastianini have all contributed to his improvement as a rider, pushing him to perform at his best."

"Whenever one didn't have the chance to win, the other one did, and I was consistently part of that struggle, which ultimately set me apart."

"Securing the championship proved to be an immense challenge, as we set a new record for the highest points ever, indicating the level of competition we faced. Overcoming such fierce opponents is truly remarkable."

Martin has also stated that after securing the world championship, he triumphed over “the prime versions” of Bagnaia and Marquez in 2024.

The current titleholder is set to join Aprilia for his championship defense in 2025, following Ducati's decision reversal earlier this year, opting for Marquez over Martin for its factory team promotion.

So far, Martin has not announced whether he will compete using the number one plate.

During the off-season trials in Barcelona last month, Martin embarked on his first ride on the RS-GP, choosing to retain his customary number 89.

In 2025, Bastianini will part ways with Ducati to join the KTM team, accepting a position to compete with the Tech3 team, where he will team up with ex-Aprilia competitor, Maverick Vinales.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive up-to-date MotoGP coverage, special features, conversations, and offers straight from the track to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Discover More

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Stay updated with the newest MotoGP updates, exclusive content, conversations, and special offers straight from the track to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Informed with Crash MotoGP

Copying or replicating the text, photos, or images in full or in part is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Website Directory

Smash.Net

Aprilia's new technical chief, Fabiano Sterlacchini, sheds light on departure from KTM: "Compatibility issues emerged"

Sterlacchini takes on the role of technical director at Aprilia

Fabiano Strelacchini, the newly appointed technical director at Aprilia, stated that his departure from his MotoGP position at KTM was a "joint decision," following a realization of "diminished compatibility."

Sterlacchini, who had a long tenure at Ducati, made the move to the KTM team in June 2021.

By the time summer arrived this year, Sterlacchini had departed from his role at the Austrian brand, and it was during the weekend of the Japanese Grand Prix that his appointment as Aprilia's new technical director was made public.

He takes over from Romano Albesiano, who is moving to Honda after guiding Aprilia from the rear of the field upon its return in 2015 to achieving their first race victories in MotoGP.

In a conversation with TG Regione Marche, Sterlacchini mentioned that his departure from KTM was influenced by logistical reasons, acknowledging that he was aware of this factor from the beginning.

"Thus, there were underlying factors; as soon as the significant compatibility ceased to exist, it was a choice made together."

Sterlacchini embarked on his journey with Aprilia as the season concluded, marking his involvement in the extensive transformation happening at the Italian brand, encompassing an updated roster of riders.

Aprilia has announced that Jorge Martin, the 2024 world champion, will join its official team, partnering with Marco Bezzecchi, as newcomer Ai Ogura gets promoted to compete for Trackhouse.

Following the initial trial of the fresh squad in Barcelona the previous month, Sterlacchini observed, "Things are progressing satisfactorily.

"The initial strategy employed by both Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi was quite optimistic."

"They displayed several impressive features of the bicycle.

"Clearly, there are certain areas that require improvement, and by addressing the challenges presented by these two riders, we will gain a clearer understanding of our current standing and identify the specific areas that need enhancement."

"Both of them are emerging from an extremely speedy motorcycle, and specifically, Jorge holds the title of the current world champion."

In 2024, Aprilia became the sole brand apart from Ducati to secure a grand prix victory, thanks to Maverick Vinales' triumph in the United States.

However, a decrease in performance of the RS-GP during the latter part of the season resulted in Aprilia falling to third place in the manufacturers' rankings, trailing behind KTM.

Vinales, who is set to switch to KTM in 2025, was the team's top performer in the championship, finishing seventh.

Sign up for our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the freshest MotoGP updates, special content, conversations, and offers straight from the racetrack to your email.

For further details, please consult our Privacy Policy.

Explore Further

Sign up for our MotoGP Bulletin

Receive the newest updates, behind-the-scenes content, one-on-one conversations, and special offers straight from the circuit, directly to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy

Recent Updates

Additional Updates

Stay Updated with Crash F1

Stay Informed with Crash MotoGP

Reproducing the entirety or a portion of the text, images, or illustrations is strictly prohibited in any manner.

Website Directory

Crash.Net