No one can deny that after the preseason of MotoGP 2025, based on testing in Sepang and Buriram, there’s a name standing out above the rest: Marc Márquez’s. The eight-time world champion showed a great race pace in the challenging Malaysian layout and took another step forward in Thailand. He sent a strong message with two imposing records, had the best pace, and made it clear that he is already comfortable with the GP25 – or an improved GP24 – of the factory Ducati Lenovo team.
Marc Márquez, with a knowing smile, has made his presence known. Anyway, he downplayed his chances and avoided getting carried away after the preseason. “At most, I am the second favorite. Of course, I must be, I am on a factory Ducati. But the favorite is Pecco Bagnaia,” he explained. The Italian knows the engine better, having fought for the title against Jorge Martín, and Márquez still has room for improvement. Although he showed very promising glimpses in his race pace, it’s clear that he’s not getting ahead of himself.
A race weekend is different, but race simulation is one of the most important points. “I was calm, fluid, and without errors. The tires dropped off, of course. But I could control it,” said the ’93’. He did not fail, especially in Malaysia when he attacked. The progression was relentless to beat the main benchmark of the previous sessions, his brother Álex. It was a great message, one that showcases his growing confidence and skill.
Pecco Bagnaia doesn’t deny that Márquez starts with an advantage. “He’s the favorite,” says the Italian. He bases his justification on form, saying, “It seems better, he had the opportunity to work more, and I wasn’t in that situation of feeling comfortable.” Bagnaia suffered more problems, and perhaps his best moment of preparation was in Sepang testing, where they followed the work method that Ducati requested. This focus on development, unique to the dominant motorcycle, will be crucial, with the engine as the main element, similar to last year.
The Favorites
Marc Márquez points out four main rivals: “My main rival is Bagnaia, and so will be Pedro Acosta and my brother Álex. I don’t forget Jorge Martín.” The Italian, logically, monopolizes the betting after dominating Sundays in 2024 and being a two-time champion. Acosta leads a KTM that has doubts behind the scenes. Álex Márquez has been the great revelation of winter. And Jorge Martín is the champion, although his crash in the first test at Sepang leaves question marks before the first round with the RS-GP of the Noale factory.
The title will be up for grabs again in Thailand, with a strong list of candidates. Márquez’s humility and focus are evident, even as he’s considered the favorite. With his performance in the preseason and his experience, he’s certainly one to watch. The competition, however, will be fierce, with Bagnaia, Acosta, Álex Márquez, and Jorge Martín all vying for the top spot. It’s going to be an exciting season, with each rider pushing the others to be their best.