As the MotoGP world gears up for the Thailand test, Ducati has made a game-changing decision—choosing to stick with its already proven 2024 engine for the 2025 season. While manufacturers usually aim to improve year after year, Ducati appears to have realized that sometimes, the best way forward is to hold onto what already works.

Why Ducati is Playing it Safe

During the recent three-day test in Sepang, both Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia remained silent about which engine Ducati would use in its 2025 GP25 bike. However, behind closed doors, the riders made it clear: a decision had to be made before leaving Sepang. And based on their feedback, Ducati seems to have chosen the safer option—the engine that got them 16 wins out of 20 races in the 2024 season.

For many manufacturers, admitting that last year’s engine outperforms the latest version is never easy. It suggests that months of research and development haven’t delivered the expected improvements. But Ducati isn’t too concerned about appearances, as the numbers speak for themselves. Their 2024 engine was dominant, and rather than risking performance setbacks, they’re betting on proven success.

The Factors Behind the Decision

1. Compressed Testing Schedule
   Traditionally, teams had two weeks between pre-season tests to fine-tune their bikes. This year, however, the schedule is much tighter. Just four days after finishing in Sepang, riders will be back on track in Buriram. With no time for factories to make major changes, Ducati found itself in a tough spot. Sticking with the 2024 engine ensures stability while they work on refining other aspects of the bike.
2. New Engine Regulations
   Under 2025 regulations, manufacturers without concession benefits must finalize their engine specifications in Thailand, the first race of the season. Once it is set, the engine will remain unchanged until the end of 2026. This two-year freeze made Ducati cautious. As team manager Davide Tardozzi explained: “We want to be conservative because, this time, the engine freeze lasts two years.”

Who Gets the GP25?

In 2025, only three riders will have the new GP25: factory riders Bagnaia, Marquez, and VR46’s Fabio Di Giannantonio. Meanwhile, Alex Marquez, Fermin Aldeguer, and Franco Morbidelli will race with the GP24, the same bike that won the championship last year.

A Smart Gamble?

Ducati’s choice to prioritize consistency over innovation is unusual in MotoGP, but with a dominant 2024 season behind them and strict new regulations ahead, it might just be the smartest move on the grid. Whether it pays off remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Ducati isn’t taking unnecessary risks in their quest for another title.