Ducati factory riders used updated engine at Thailand MotoGP

Ducati confirms factory riders Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia raced with an updated engine specification at the MotoGP Thai Grand Prix.

Ducati Lenovo Team technicians and mechanics watch from the pit during the first practice session of the MotoGP Pramac Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli in Misano Adriatico on September 20, 2024. Photo by Andreas Solaro/AFP

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Ducati has confirmed that its factory MotoGP riders raced with an updated engine specification at the Thailand Grand Prix, despite initially stating they would continue using the 2024 engine, chassis, and aerodynamics for the 2025 season. This revelation follows Marc Marquez’s dominant victory at Buriram, where he showcased impressive pace on his Ducati Lenovo Team machine.

The Italian manufacturer had previously announced during pre-season testing that it would maintain the GP24 specification for its factory and satellite teams. However, it has now emerged that the engines supplied to factory riders Marquez, Francesco Bagnaia, and Fabio Di Giannantonio featured key differences from those used by satellite riders Franco Morbidelli, Alex Marquez, and Fermin Aldeguer.

Ducati confirms engine differences at Thailand GP

According to a Ducati spokesperson speaking to Motorsport at the Thai Grand Prix, there were distinct variations between the power units used by the factory team and those allocated to the satellite squads.

“Indeed, they are two different specifications,” the spokesperson confirmed. “The one for Marc [Marquez], Pecco [Bagnaia], and Diggia [Di Giannantonio] includes some small changes compared to the one for Alex [Marquez], Franco [Morbidelli], and Fermin [Aldeguer].”

The updated specification reportedly incorporates feedback from both Marquez and Bagnaia, suggesting that Ducati has already begun fine-tuning its 2025 package to suit its lead riders.

“In the more modern specification, we have taken into account Marc and Pecco's comments,” the Ducati representative added.

Factory riders already receiving new developments

The confirmation of these technical updates aligns with comments made by Ducati Corse general manager Gigi Dall’Igna following the Thailand GP. Dall’Igna acknowledged that Marquez, Bagnaia, and Di Giannantonio had already been provided with modifications compared to the standard GP24.

Furthermore, he revealed that Ducati is planning to introduce more new components at the Spanish Grand Prix in May. With a post-race test scheduled at Jerez, the factory team is expected to assess further refinements that could enhance its competitiveness as the season progresses.

Ducati’s development strategy for 2025

Ducati’s approach to the 2025 season appears to involve gradual technical evolution rather than a complete overhaul of its machinery. While the GP24 remains the foundation for all of its riders, the factory squad is benefiting from incremental upgrades aimed at maintaining its advantage.

Marquez’s immediate success with Ducati underscores the effectiveness of these changes, while Bagnaia and Di Giannantonio continue adapting to the refined package. The decision to implement rider-specific developments early in the season suggests Ducati is keen to maximize its performance potential before the European leg of the championship begins.

What’s next for Ducati’s MotoGP campaign?

With Ducati’s factory team already receiving upgraded parts, attention now turns to whether satellite riders will eventually gain access to similar developments. Historically, Ducati has provided mid-season updates to its satellite squads, but the timing of any trickle-down upgrades remains uncertain.

The upcoming Spanish Grand Prix could provide further insight into Ducati’s long-term strategy, particularly as the team evaluates its next steps following a successful start to the 2025 MotoGP season.