The MotoGP world has been buzzing with speculation about the differences between the Ducati bikes ridden by reigning world champion Pecco Bagnaia and the latest addition to the factory team, Marc Marquez. Ducati boss Gigi Dall’Igna has finally addressed the rumors, confirming that there are indeed key differences between the two machines. However, what really shook the racing community were Bagnaia’s latest remarks regarding the ongoing situation within the team.

For weeks, fans and analysts have been debating whether Marquez, despite joining the factory Ducati squad late, had access to an identical Desmosedici GP25 to the one Bagnaia rides. Many suspected that Ducati might be favoring their newly signed star by offering him a slightly modified version of the bike that better suits his aggressive riding style. Dall’Igna, in an exclusive interview, clarified the situation, stating that while both bikes are based on the same GP25 model, there are subtle but crucial differences in setup and development.

“The bikes are fundamentally the same, but the way Pecco and Marc approach racing is different,” Dall’Igna explained. “Pecco has been working closely with the team for years, fine-tuning the setup to his liking. Marc, on the other hand, is still adapting and trying to shape the bike to match his aggressive style. Naturally, this results in differences in how the two bikes behave on the track.”

One of the primary distinctions lies in the electronics and aerodynamics packages. Bagnaia has continued to refine his preferred setup, emphasizing stability and precision, while Marquez has requested adjustments that allow him more flexibility in cornering and braking. This has led to slight but significant alterations in throttle response, traction control, and aerodynamics.

Despite these variations, Dall’Igna was adamant that Ducati is maintaining equal opportunities for both riders. “There is no favoritism,” he insisted. “Both riders have access to the same updates and technical support. The differences arise naturally due to their unique approaches to riding.”
However, what truly sent shockwaves through the MotoGP community was Bagnaia’s reaction to these revelations. In a candid post-race interview, the defending champion expressed his concerns about the current dynamics within the team. “I understand that every rider has their own style, and that requires some adjustments,” he said. “But at the end of the day, we are both here to win, and I just hope that the team remains fully committed to supporting me in my title defense.”
Bagnaia’s comments have led to speculation that he may be feeling the pressure of Marquez’s presence in the team. With Marquez already proving to be a serious contender, finishing consistently in podium positions and even challenging Bagnaia directly in multiple races, the reigning champion’s position as Ducati’s top rider is no longer a given.
MotoGP insiders believe that the psychological battle between Bagnaia and Marquez could be just as intense as the one unfolding on the track. “Pecco is a fantastic rider, but Marc is a different beast,” said a former MotoGP champion. “He thrives in high-pressure situations and has the ability to shake up a team’s dynamics just by being there. If Pecco starts to feel that Ducati’s attention is divided, it could affect his performance.”
This growing tension within the Ducati garage adds another layer of intrigue to an already electrifying 2025 MotoGP season. With both riders vying for supremacy, every session, every lap, and every decision by Ducati’s management will be scrutinized by fans and experts alike. The team’s ability to handle this internal rivalry could be the deciding factor in whether they dominate the season or allow another manufacturer to challenge their reign.
For now, both riders remain focused on their individual goals. Bagnaia, determined to defend his title, will continue pushing for consistency and strategic racing. Marquez, always the fearless competitor, will do everything in his power to dethrone the reigning champion and prove that he is still the best rider on the grid.
As the MotoGP season progresses, all eyes will be on Ducati to see how they navigate this high-stakes battle. Will Bagnaia’s concerns be addressed, or will Marquez’s relentless pursuit of victory shift the balance of power within the team? One thing is certain: the drama is far from over, and the racing world will be watching every twist and turn of this unfolding saga.