Marc Marquez is set to test Ducati’s current GP24 model alongside the GP25 prototype at the upcoming Barcelona test, according to Michele Pirro.

Marquez will work with the factory Ducati team for the first time during the official pre-season test on November 19. This follows his two-year contract with the team.

The November pre-season test gives riders the opportunity to try out new bikes for the upcoming season. However, since Marquez hasn’t yet had the chance to ride Ducati’s latest model, the team will allow him to test both the GP24 and GP25 in Barcelona. This approach is intended to ease Marquez’s transition while helping him understand the characteristics of the GP24, which has dominated this season.

“He’ll have the GP24 too, and he’ll try both bikes,” Pirro told GPOne in an interview. “I expect him to get on and say: ‘okay, everything’s a bit better.’ But I don’t expect him to suddenly be half a second or eight-tenths faster. I’m not expecting a revolution.”

Ducati has had an outstanding season, securing the title early in September. The GP24 has been a powerhouse, delivering 15 wins so far and placing three riders at the top of the standings.

Pirro, however, suggests that the GP25 is unlikely to bring another major leap in performance, noting that only incremental improvements are expected.

“You probably won’t immediately see or notice the changes,” said Pirro, who recently tested the GP25 at Jerez. “But as always, we aim to improve, and the 2025 model is another step forward, as confirmed in recent tests. There’s no revolution, just small improvements, which will need verification on different tracks.”

He continued, “The objective is always the same: find improvements beyond the GP24, which indicates we’re progressing. Achieving a step forward, like from the GP22 to the GP23, would mean we stay competitive across all 20 races, not just some. The GP24 proved to be consistent in every phase this season, which wasn’t as true for the GP22 and GP23.”

Pirro also noted that the GP25’s design aligns with Bagnaia’s riding style, while adjustments to braking should suit Marquez’s aggressive approach as well.

“Once the new aerodynamics come in, it’ll be even more ‘race-ready,’” Pirro said, suggesting that Ducati’s upgrades could benefit both hard-braking riders like Bagnaia and Marquez.

At the Barcelona test, Pirro will also step in for Fabio Di Giannantonio at VR46. Ducati will field only three factory bikes in 2024, with one each for Bagnaia, Marquez, and Di Giannantonio.