The MotoGP world is buzzing with a heated debate that’s dividing fans and riders alike: Is the GP24 truly superior to the GP25, or has the drama overshadowed the facts? Ducati’s VR46 rider, Franco Morbidelli, thinks the controversy has gone too far. After Ducati’s GP24 dominated 19 out of 20 races in 2024, expectations were sky-high for the GP25. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite Marc Marquez clinching a seventh MotoGP title with 11 grand prix wins and 14 sprints on the GP25, the bike’s performance has sparked more questions than answers. But is the GP25 really the underdog here?
During winter testing, Ducati was forced to shelve its full 2025 engine spec, reverting to an updated 2024 version—a move that raised eyebrows. Yet, the GP25 still reigned supreme in the 2025 season, thanks to Marquez’s consistency. Meanwhile, his teammate Pecco Bagnaia and Fabio Di Giannantonio struggled to find their rhythm, scoring just two wins between them. And this is the part most people miss: while the factory riders faced challenges, satellite teams like Gresini thrived with the 2024-spec package, with Alex Marquez and Fermin Aldeguer securing four wins and a championship runner-up spot.
This has ignited a fierce debate among satellite riders: Should they stick with the proven GP24 or take a leap of faith with the GP25 for 2026? Morbidelli, however, remains unfazed. “I’m riding a Ducati,” he said, “and I think it doesn’t really matter. Both bikes are exceptional when they’re on point.” He argues that every bike has its moments of struggle, pointing out that even the GP25, despite its dominance, faced a notable challenge in Indonesia. But is this enough to write off the GP25’s overall success?
Morbidelli believes the drama has been blown out of proportion. “The Ducati package has been stellar since 2020,” he emphasized. “Whether it’s the ’24 or ’25, both bikes are incredibly capable when they’re firing on all cylinders.” He acknowledges that riders switching between specs have faced doubts, but he stops short of declaring one bike definitively better than the other. So, here’s the million-dollar question: Are we overcomplicating the GP24 vs. GP25 debate, or is there a genuine performance gap that’s being overlooked?
What’s your take? Do you think the GP25’s struggles are a minor hiccup, or is the GP24 the safer bet for 2026? Let’s spark a discussion in the comments—I’m curious to hear your thoughts!
