Marco Melandri, the MotoGP runner-up in 2005, analyses with surgical acuity the signing of Marc Marquez at Ducati and the seismic repercussions on Jorge Martin, Pecco Bagnaia and the Ducati factory itself.
The arrival of Marc Marquez in Ducati caused a real earthquake in the MotoGP paddock. If we are to believe the words of Marco Melandri on motosan, a former pilot and now consultant, this decision has considerable sporting and human implications for Pecco Bagnaia, George Martin, and the factory Ducati herself.
Melandri begins by returning to the delicate situation experienced by Jorge Martin: " he was told he would join the factory team in 2025, but everything changed after one race. » A brutal turnaround which, according to Melandri, recalls the trend of Ducati to manage its drivers in a controversial manner: " Ducati has a complicated history with its riders. We saw it with Stoner, Lorenzo, and others. Martin deserved this place because of his age and his results. But Marc Marquez's aura and track record clearly weighed in the balance. »
To Melandri, the arrival of Marquez creates a unique situation within the factory team Ducati : " Marc Marquez is an unpredictable character, with such a strong personality that he doesn't need to speak to be noticed. He will always follow his own path. Pecco, on the other hand, is more discreet »
This opposition of temperaments could become a key factor in 2025. Marc Marquez is a brute force, capable of spectacular performances even in difficult conditions, but accustomed to being the center of attention. Pecco Bagnaia is a methodical and calm driver, who may have to reinvent himself to assert his leadership against the eight-time champion.
Marco Melandri: “ Pecco, Martin and Marc are currently at a higher level than the others »
« It will be fascinating to see how their dynamic evolves within the team. "Concludes Melandri who does not hesitate to qualify Marquez, Bagnaia et Martin like the three best drivers of the moment: " Pecco, Martin and Marc are currently at a higher level than the others. » However, he regrets the absence of Martin on a Ducati factory: " With these three riders on Ducatis, we would have seen an incredible championship. »
Although he is convinced of the potential of Martin with Aprilia, Melandri remains measured: " Jorge may be very fast, but he will also encounter difficult times. » The Spaniard will not only have to adapt to a new bike, but also prove that he can maintain the level that led him to the 2024 MotoGP title.
To Ducati, the 2025 season will be a real test of strength: managing two champions with opposing egos and styles, continuing to dominate in a context where Aprilia et KTM come closer and meet the high expectations of a championship where Ducati is already the reference.
In conclusion, Marco Melandri highlights the immense narrative and competitive potential of the 2025 season. With Marquez et bagnaia in Ducati, and Martin in Aprilia, the battles on the track promise to be as intense as the intrigues off it.