Bagnaia’s steady approach vs. Marquez’s aggressive mindset

Paolo Campinoti highlights key differences between Bagnaia and Marquez as they battle for the championship.

Marc Marquez of Spain and Ducati Lenovo Team speaks with his teammate Francesco Bagnaia of Italy at parc ferme after qualifying for the MotoGP PT Grand Prix of Thailand at Chang International Circuit in Buriram on March 1, 2025. Photo by Steve Wobser/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

The MotoGP 2025 season is already shaping up to be an intense battle, with Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez emerging as two of the strongest contenders for the title. Both riders, now teammates at Ducati Lenovo, have been dominant figures in the championship conversation. Pramac Racing boss Paolo Campinoti recently shared his thoughts on the differences between the two, describing Bagnaia as a "quiet" rider and Marquez as a "cannibal" in his aggressive approach to racing.

Bagnaia and Marquez entered the season as two of the most highly anticipated title challengers, given their skill and the strength of the Ducati Desmosedici GP25. Their credentials were on full display at the opening round in Thailand on March 2, 2025, where Marquez secured a commanding victory while Bagnaia finished third. With both riders starting the season at the front of the standings, their internal battle is set to be one of the key narratives of the year.

Campinoti, who oversees Pramac Racing, a key Ducati satellite team, acknowledged that choosing between Bagnaia and Marquez is difficult. He believes both riders have distinct strengths that make them formidable competitors for the MotoGP crown.

"They are both top riders," Campinoti told Crash in an interview on March 13, 2025. "Francesco Bagnaia is much quieter, but he is extraordinary."

While Bagnaia is known for his composed and methodical approach to racing, Marquez brings a different kind of intensity to the grid.

"Marc is a cannibal," Campinoti added, emphasizing Marquez’s aggressive and relentless racing style.

The contrast between Bagnaia and Marquez has been a key talking point in MotoGP 2025. Bagnaia, a two-time world champion, has built his success on precision, consistency, and an ability to minimize mistakes under pressure. His smooth and calculated riding style has earned him a reputation as one of the most technically gifted riders on the grid.

On the other hand, Marquez, an eight-time world champion, thrives on an aggressive, risk-taking approach. His ability to push the limits of the bike and execute daring overtakes has made him one of the most feared competitors in the sport. Despite joining Ducati Lenovo for the first time this season, Marquez wasted no time adapting to his new machine, immediately proving his championship credentials with a win in Thailand.

Their differing approaches to racing have sparked debate among MotoGP fans and analysts. While some favor Bagnaia’s consistency as the key to securing another title, others believe Marquez’s fearless nature could give him the edge in crucial moments.

Ducati’s dominance raises questions about team dynamics

With Bagnaia and Marquez both riding for Ducati Lenovo, their rivalry is not just about the championship but also about team supremacy. Managing two elite riders with title aspirations can be challenging, and how Ducati navigates this dynamic could play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the season.

Bagnaia, having been Ducati’s leading rider in recent years, will be keen to assert himself as the team’s top contender. However, Marquez’s arrival brings a new level of internal competition that could push both riders to their limits.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how Ducati handles the dynamic between its two star riders. Will Bagnaia’s measured approach prove superior, or will Marquez’s aggressive style secure him another world title? One thing is certain: the battle between them is only just beginning.