Bagnaia and Marquez emerge as MotoGP title favorites

MotoGP riders share their title predictions as the 2025 season begins in Thailand.

Francesco Bagnaia of Italy and Marc Marquez of Spain, both from Ducati Lenovo Team, attend the MotoGP launch party at One Bangkok mall in Bangkok, Thailand, on February 9, 2025. Photo by Anusak Laowilas/Nur

By Randy Ahmad and Yuni Utomo

As the 2025 MotoGP season approaches, excitement is building ahead of the opening race at the Buriram circuit in Thailand. Following an intense pre-season, riders have shared their predictions for the world title, with most favoring Pecco Bagnaia and Marc Márquez, the new teammates in the factory Ducati team.

Two-time world champion Bagnaia displayed confidence when asked about his title chances, responding bluntly: "Me, of course!" This sentiment was echoed by several Italian riders on the grid, who also see him as the leading contender.

Marquez, however, remained cautious, acknowledging not only the competition from Bagnaia but also from his brother, Alex Márquez, who impressed during pre-season testing with Gresini Racing.

Riders' predictions highlight a close battle

While many riders singled out Bagnaia and Márquez, others offered more detailed assessments. Enea Bastianini, Bagnaia’s former teammate, noted: "In winter tests, Marc was impressive. But Bagnaia is super fast in the race."

The predictions showed strong support for Marc Márquez, with many riders pointing to his experience and past success. Álex Rins summed up the general feeling: "The one who will win is the one with the most titles among active riders. And that is none other than Marc."

Some riders, including Fabio Quartararo, Marco Bezzecchi, Franco Morbidelli, and Brad Binder, named themselves as potential contenders—some more seriously than others.

Pre-season form suggests a tight contest

With pre-season times in Buriram giving Marc Márquez a slight advantage, the early momentum appears to be on his side. However, the 2025 calendar features 22 Grands Prix, ensuring a long and unpredictable battle for the championship.

This season is shaping up to be a thrilling one, with Bagnaia and Márquez expected to be the main contenders. However, outsiders could also emerge as serious threats. The first showdown in Thailand will set the tone for what promises to be an intense MotoGP campaign.

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