Ducati has been the standout performer in the 2024 MotoGP season, but its satellite teams, particularly Gresini Racing with Alex and Marc Marquez, have also sparked interest.
Ducati introduced a new aerodynamic package for its Desmosedici GP23 at the 2023 Austrian GP, but the Marquez brothers and the VR46 team started the season with an earlier spec. This means the satellite teams were not equipped with the latest upgrades.
While both Gresini and VR46 received mid-2023 upgrades at the Dutch TT, only VR46 fully embraced the new setup. Gresini, meanwhile, is mixing older components with newer ones.
As Marc prepares to join the factory Ducati team in 2025, Alex will stick with the older bike for Gresini, which will still be a version of the successful Desmosedici GP24.
When asked about his 2025 bike, Alex said, “I know what bike I will have but I will not tell you. It’s better that you ask Ducati. I’m happy for that.”
He aims to finish the season strong, noting, “Having good form and a better package is positive. We’ll try our best in the last two races.”
For the Malaysian GP, Marquez is looking to build on last year’s success, where he clinched his first dry-weather MotoGP victory.
“We were quick here last year,” he acknowledged. “But it’s a different situation now. I love this track and will give my all.”
Marquez emphasized the need for consistency: “Mistakes cost time, so precision is key. While it will be challenging to win again, my goal is to finish in the top five, close to the podium.”