In preparation for the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League, it is not uncommon to witness last year’s bikes outperforming the newer models as teams adjust to the new MotoGP season. However, this year has been an exception for Ducati, as their GP24 bike has proven to be incredibly fast. Despite this, one of the riders on the older GP23 bike consistently competes with those on the latest specification. This could create a dilemma for team boss Gigi Dall’Igna as he tries to resolve his situation with Marc Marquez.
Ducati’s progress in 2024 has been a mixed bag so far. While last year’s championship contender, Jorge Martin, enjoys a comfortable points lead in the Pramac Racing team, other aspects have proven more challenging. Current world champion Pecco Bagnaia has struggled with inconsistency on the team’s bike, dealing with vibration issues that seem to stem from the introduction of a slightly different tire by Michelin this season. On the other hand, Bagnaia’s teammate Enea Bastianini has had a better start and currently sits in second place in the championship. However, he has not yet reached the level Ducati was hoping for, especially when compared to satellite team rider Martin.
The situation is even worse for the GP23 riders. Normally, they start the season with a fully developed and refined machine, essentially plug-and-play. However, this year they have been facing difficulties. The GP23 bike not only faces the same issues with Michelin as the 2024 bike, but also lacks the same speed as its successor. This performance difference has resulted in disappointing results for the 2023 race winners, Marco Bezzecchi and Fabio Di Giannantonio, in the early stages of the season. Bezzecchi, in particular, may now regret his decision to turn down the opportunity to be Martin’s teammate in Pramac and instead stay with his familiar VR46 team.
It’s no surprise that much of the attention is focused on Marc Marquez, the six-time MotoGP champion, as he adapts to Ducati after spending his entire premier class career with Honda. Marquez has shown himself to be one of the fastest riders on the Ducati, if not the fastest, despite his results not yet reflecting that. He has been hindered by various issues, including contact with Bagnaia and brake problems at COTA. It could be argued that he should already have several podium positions with the Gresini bike and even have won the race in Texas if he hadn’t crashed.
The speed of Marquez represents a potential problem for his Italian employers, especially considering the difficulties faced by the factory team. Should they continue to focus on resolving Bagnaia’s current issues or allocate resources to further develop last year’s machine, considering Marquez’s potential? One thing is clear: the team manager, Dall’Igna, is determined to win, regardless of which rider achieves it. He also sees Marquez as a long-term investment for the factory, especially as the MotoGP paddock prepares for the rise of the emerging star from KTM/Gas Gas, Pedro Acosta.
The next post-race test at Jerez on Monday could provide insights into Ducati’s future direction. It will be the first opportunity to test new parts for Marquez and an important chance for the factory team to bounce back. This issue also raises questions about the future. Currently, a vacancy remains open in the Ducati factory team alongside Bagnaia, who has renewed his contract, and Marquez is considered a top target. However, if Pramac shifts its loyalty to Yamaha next year, it is increasingly likely that Marquez’s Gresini team will receive at least one factory bike. This may be enough to convince him to stay with the team he joined this season, which has a family atmosphere.
One thing is becoming increasingly clear: Marquez’s ambition to return to winning after four challenging years of injuries at Honda is now more achievable than ever. However, the extent of his success may depend on the support he receives to fully realize his potential.
© 2024
After an exciting season, the football championship came to an end. The winning team was Flamengo, who clinched the title with a spectacular victory. The players showed a lot of determination and grit throughout the championship, and their performance was worthy of applause.
Flamengo faced several challenges during the season, but they knew how to overcome them masterfully. The team’s coach, Jorge Jesus, was crucial to the team’s success. His game strategy and leadership were essential in motivating the players and leading them to victory.
One of the highlights of the season was player Bruno Henrique, who had a brilliant performance throughout the championship. His skill on the field and ability to score goals were fundamental to Flamengo’s success. Additionally, player Gabigol also stood out, being the team’s top scorer and contributing important goals throughout the season.
The Flamengo fans were also a determining factor in the title win. The supporters showed up in force at the stadiums, supporting the team and creating an incredible atmosphere. The love and passion the fans have for Flamengo are truly inspiring.
With the championship win, Flamengo solidifies itself as one of the greatest teams in Brazilian football. The team showed that it is possible to achieve great feats with hard work and dedication. Congratulations to Flamengo for the well-deserved title!
Now, the team is preparing for new challenges and to represent Brazil in international competitions. The expectations are high and the fans are confident that Flamengo will continue to shine in the upcoming championships.
The football championship was a true spectacle, with exciting games and many twists and turns. Fans of all teams were able to enjoy moments of pure emotion and adrenaline. Football is truly a national passion.
May more exciting seasons come and may Brazilian teams continue shining on the fields. Sports is a source of joy and unity for all of us. Congratulations to Flamengo and all the teams that participated in the championship. May more victories and achievements come!
