Marquez Joins Ducati for 2025 MotoGP: A New Era Begins
In a thrilling development for the MotoGP world, eight-time world champion Marc Marquez is set to join the Ducati Lenovo Team from the 2025 season. Marquez, who has been riding the Desmosedici GP for the Gresini Racing MotoGP™ team, will replace Enea Bastianini and race alongside Francesco Bagnaia, the reigning world champion. This move marks a significant shift in the MotoGP landscape and promises exciting times ahead for Ducati fans and the sport at large.
Marquez expressed immense satisfaction with his new contract, stating, 'I am very happy to be able to wear the red color of the official Ducati team in MotoGP next season. Practically from the first contact with the Desmosedici GP, I enjoyed riding it and immediately adapted well to it.' He extended his gratitude to the Gresini Racing family for their support during a crucial phase in his career, emphasizing his current focus on finishing the ongoing season on a high note.
Luigi Dall'Igna, General Director of Ducati Corse, also shared his thoughts on Marquez's addition to the team, 'Our choice finally fell on an indisputable talent like Marc Marquez. His ability to adapt perfectly to our Desmosedici GP and his innate ambition push him to continually grow. Together, he and Bagnaia add up to 11 world titles, and having such experienced riders will be invaluable for our growth.' Dall'Igna also expressed gratitude towards Enea Bastianini and Jorge Martin for their invaluable contributions to the team over the years.
Simultaneously, another significant announcement jolted the MotoGP world as Jorge Martin, currently leading the MotoGP world championship, signed a multi-year contract with Aprilia, commencing from the 2025 season. This surprising move leaves an open spot in the Ducati-Pramac satellite team where Martin has been a standout performer for four seasons.
Martin's transition to Aprilia is set to replace Aleix Espargaro, who recently announced his retirement. Commenting on the move, Aprilia highlighted Martin's achievements and the value he brings to the team, expecting him to continue the legacy left by Espargaro. Martin's departure from Ducati has opened doors for Marquez's elevation to the official Ducati team.
The MotoGP paddock is abuzz with these significant changes, reflecting the sport's dynamic nature and the constant evolution of team strategies. As Marquez and Martin gear up for their new roles, the 2024 season is poised to be a fascinating prelude to their debut with their respective teams in 2025.
- Marquez will be under intense scrutiny as he steps into the role that Enea Bastianini previously held. Bastianini and Jorge Martin have been acknowledged by Luigi Dall'Igna for their exceptional performance and dedication, and it is expected that they will continue to excel in the racing circuit.
- Jorge Martin, who has clinched multiple victories and set records during his tenure with Ducati-Pramac, will bring a wealth of experience and skill to Aprilia. His relationship with Aleix Espargaro as a friend and mentor is likely to influence his smooth transition to the new team.
- The announcement comes amidst a series of strategic decisions across various MotoGP teams. KTM has also made headlines by recruiting Spanish prodigy Pedro Acosta for the upcoming season, indicating a trend of emerging talent joining premier teams. This reshuffling of riders is reflective of the competitive and ever-changing nature of MotoGP.
