Misano, Italy – Marc Marquez, a prominent MotoGP rider, reported achieving identical lap times while testing both the 2024 and 2025 Ducati models at the Misano test on Monday. Marquez attributed this parity in performance to adjustments in his riding style, raising questions about the perceived performance gap between the two bike specifications. His comments challenge assertions that Francesco Bagnaia’s difficulties with the GP25 are solely attributable to the newer motorcycle’s inherent characteristics.
During the post-test interview, Marquez addressed the perceived advantages of the older package, stating, “I will answer honestly… I did the same lap time with a different riding style. I mean, with both [packages] I did 1m31.0s.” He elaborated on the differences, noting that the 2024 model seemed to offer improved cornering speed, while the 2025 version provided greater braking stability. Despite these variations, Marquez emphasized that both packages demonstrated strong overall performance.
Prior to Marquez’s test results, Ducati sporting director Mauro Grassilli had downplayed the distinctions between the GP24 and GP25 models. In an exclusive statement to Motorsport.com during the Misano weekend, Grassilli asserted, “24 and 25 are the same bikes. Completely the same. There are some options that every rider puts on the 24 in order to be on the 25. But the base of the bike is the same.” This statement further underscores the notion that the bikes share a fundamental similarity in design and performance capabilities.
Grassilli further clarified that any subtle differences between the two models primarily relate to engine reliability and durability enhancements rather than outright performance gains. “We have some changes, especially not for the performance, but for the maintenance of the engine, for the [durability] of the engine. [For] that we put some technical tools inside the engine. But for the rest, itâs the GP24,” he explained. He emphasized that the GP25 is essentially a GP24 with minor modifications aimed at improving engine longevity.
Despite Ducati’s initial willingness to accept responsibility for Bagnaia’s performance challenges, General Manager Gigi Dall’Igna expressed frustration with the situation at Misano. Bagnaia finished the test in eighth place, closely behind Marquez, who secured sixth position. Bagnaia acknowledged that he was actively exploring technical solutions and believed he had made progress during the test session, focusing on weight distribution and setup adjustments to improve his competitiveness and tire performance.
