In the world of MotoGP, the dominant force of Ducati is navigating a critical decision regarding their engine for the upcoming season. With their current engine having won 19 races last year, they must weigh the risks and benefits of introducing a new engine or sticking with the tried and tested 2024 model. This dilemma is crucial, as the chosen engine will be used for the next two seasons, and any miscalculation could allow their competitors to close the gap. The engine in question must be submitted to the FIM before the first Grand Prix, and with the new 850cc regulation set to arrive in 2027, manufacturers like Yamaha and Suzuki are considering significant changes, such as switching from an inline-four to a V4 configuration.
Tests and more tests
Ducati’s technicians have been extensively testing and fine-tuning their engines since the first day of training in Barcelona in November. The tests have been conducted on various circuits, including Sepang and Buriram, to ensure that the chosen engine performs optimally in different conditions. According to Davide Tardazzi, the head of the official Ducati team, it appears that they are inclined to go with the 2024 engine, although the final decision will be made by the technicians.
Marc’s point of view
Marc Márquez has shed more light on the matter, explaining that Ducati is being cautious and realistic in their approach. He believes that the 2025 engine has its strengths and weaknesses, and the team is hesitant to take the risk of introducing a new engine that may not be better than the 2024 model. Márquez highlights that the 2024 engine has a solid foundation, having won 19 races last year, and the team is working on fine-tuning it with small improvements.
Pecco’s details
Pecco Bagnaia, who has more experience with the demodromic engines of the Boloñeses, coincides with Márquez’s assessment. He explains that the choice between the 2024 and 2025 engines is difficult, but the team is leaning towards the 2024 engine due to its stability and balance. Bagnaia notes that the 2025 engine suffers from issues with finding a balance to stop, which could be a significant problem if they cannot find a solution.
Greater equality with previous models
The decision to stick with the 2024 engine will result in greater equality with previous models, as those who already carry the GP24, such as Álex Márquez, Franky Morbidelli, or Fermín Aldeguer, will have more similar pieces. This will make the competition more evenly matched, and Ducati is cautiously optimistic about their chances.
To think about other things
With the engine decision out of the way, Ducati can now focus on other aspects of their motorcycle, such as aerodynamics. Bagnaia notes that the 2024 engine is performing well, and they will focus on fine-tuning the new chassis and addressing other issues, such as the new fairing, which had some problems in Malaysia.