Mumbai. February 26, 2025 – The 2025 MotoGP season kicks off in historic fashion as Thailand’s Buriram circuit hosts the season opener for the first time. With new team lineups, high-profile rider moves, and fresh championship storylines, the stage is set for an electrifying start to the year. Here’s what Indian motorsport fans need to know ahead of Round 1.
Aprilia’s Mixed Start: Martin’s Setback, Bezzecchi’s Promise
Aprilia made waves in the off-season by signing reigning World Champion Jorge Martin, but his campaign has begun on the backfoot after a highside crash left him nursing hand and foot fractures. Despite this setback, there’s cause for optimism at Noale. New recruit Marco Bezzecchi impressed in testing, finishing third on the timesheets and demonstrating strong Sprint simulation pace. Buriram has historically been a challenging circuit for Aprilia, but Bezzecchi’s form suggests he could be a dark horse this weekend.
Marquez in Ducati Red: A New Era Begins
Marc Marquez, a fan favorite in India, embarks on his Grand Prix debut in factory Ducati colors. A past master at Buriram, with thrilling wins in 2018 and 2019, Marquez arrives in top form after leading the Thai Test. But standing in his way is teammate Pecco Bagnaia, the 2024 runner-up determined to reclaim his title. Ducati has opted for stability, retaining its 2024 engine amid upcoming regulation changes, and their depth across the grid remains formidable. Expect Alex Marquez, Franco Morbidelli, and Fabio Di Giannantonio to add to the fireworks.
KTM’s Charge: Binder & Acosta Aim High
KTM enters 2025 with a formidable lineup. Brad Binder seeks his first win since 2021, while prodigious talent Pedro Acosta, after a stellar rookie season, is poised for his maiden Grand Prix victory. The rebranded Red Bull KTM Tech3 squad features Maverick Viñales and Enea Bastianini, adding 17 career wins to the team’s arsenal. Viñales, aiming to be the first rider to win with four different manufacturers, faces an uphill battle as Tech3 adapts to new machinery.
Yamaha & Honda: Rebuilding for Glory
Yamaha expands to four M1s for the first time since 2022, integrating Prima Pramac alongside factory riders Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins. Quartararo’s pre-season form suggests Yamaha could finally end its podium drought, dating back to 2023. Over at Honda, the project is under major reconstruction. With new Technical Director Romano Albesiano at the helm and Aleix Espargaro taking on a test rider role, early testing signs are promising. Joan Mir and Johann Zarco’s performances hint at a revival for the struggling marque.
Three New Faces, One Home Hero
MotoGP 2025 also sees three exciting rookies: Moto2 World Champion Ai Ogura, rising star Fermin Aldeguer, and Thailand’s own Somkiat Chantra. For Chantra, this race marks a historic moment as he becomes the first Thai rider in MotoGP, making his debut in front of a passionate home crowd.
With an unpredictable mix of established stars, ambitious newcomers, and changing dynamics, the 2025 MotoGP season opener is set to be a thriller.
Stay tuned as Buriram delivers what promises to be an unmissable start to the year.
The 2025 Moto GP Season will be streaming exclusively only on FanCode. Fans can catch all the action with season pass available at Rs. 599 and race pass starting at Rs.49.
