The 2025 MotoGP entry list is set to undergo significant changes, with a major shake-up in the works for Marc Marquez. The grid itself is still uncertain, as manufacturers and satellite teams wait to see how the rider market unfolds. It remains unclear which machines will make up the grid.
The most successful manufacturer in MotoGP, which has dominated in recent years, will see Marc Marquez join its factory team. This pairing with established rider Pecco Bagnaia has the potential for excitement and volatility. While Marquez and Bagnaia have maintained a cordial relationship, the context of Bagnaia being Valentino Rossi’s protege adds another layer of intrigue. Both riders will be aiming for the title in 2025, but only one can come out on top.
Pedro Acosta, a rookie sensation in MotoGP, has already secured a multi-year contract and a promotion to the factory team for 2025. This easy decision for KTM has overshadowed Brad Binder, their previous standard-bearer, who had earned a contract extension in 2023. Binder was even considered for a move to the satellite team, but with Marquez and Jorge Martin off the market, this possibility has been ruled out. KTM sees Acosta as their best chance for a title in the near future.
Jorge Martin, having faced multiple rejections from Ducati’s factory team, has found a new home with Aprilia. He is set to replace his friend Aleix Espargaro, who will step aside from full-time competition. Maverick Vinales is expected to continue with Aprilia, pending the finalization of his contract. However, Vinales has expressed his desire to explore other options, adding uncertainty to the team’s lineup.
Yamaha has successfully retained Fabio Quartararo, their talismanic rider who ended their five-year title drought in 2021. While Quartararo’s performance on the track has been inconsistent, Yamaha is considering their options for his future partner. Alex Rins, with his track record and ability to challenge Quartararo, is likely to secure a contract extension.
Luca Marini, despite being the fourth-fastest rider in Honda’s lineup, is expected to continue with the team. Honda values Marini as a development asset and a stable presence. However, there have been rumors of Joan Mir’s desire to leave Honda, indicating a lack of interest in the RC213V. Honda’s rider plans for 2025 are uncertain.
Ducati’s new signing, Fermin Aldeguer, will ride for one of their satellite teams. Pramac, their usual choice, is being courted by Yamaha, making it difficult for Ducati to find a suitable replacement for Martin, who will be joining Aprilia. Valentino Rossi’s VR46 team is likely to stay with Ducati and could receive factory-spec machinery. Fabio Di Giannantonio, a non-VR46 Academy rider, is also a possible candidate for VR46.
Gresini’s plans for 2025 are uncertain following Marquez’s departure. Their decisions will depend on the outcome with Pramac and the rider market.
Enea Bastianini, currently with Ducati, will move to Tech3 on a factory contract with KTM’s parent company. Jack Miller and Augusto Fernandez are potential candidates for the second seat at Tech3, but other options are being considered.
The newest team in MotoGP, led by Davide Brivio, has yet to make any moves in the rider market. Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez, the team’s current riders, are expected to be considered. Joe Roberts, a frontrunner in Moto2, is also a potential candidate.
Johann Zarco is likely to stay with LCR for the duration of his contract, and Honda is unlikely to make any changes. The other side of the LCR garage will continue to require a Japanese rider, with Takaaki Nakagami being a possible re-signing. However, Moto2 rider Ai Ogura could also be in contention for a MotoGP debut.