Alex Marquez: Malaysian MotoGP 2025 a Key Test for Ducati

MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Alex Marquez of Gresini Ducati labels the 2025 Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang as “interesting” for gauging how much Ducati’s rivals have closed the gap since pre-season testing. Consequently, this 20th round offers not only a chance to secure second in the championship but also a technical benchmark against Aprilia, Honda, Yamaha, and KTM. Furthermore, Marquez, leading Marco Bezzecchi by 97 points, could clinch second place this weekend.

Sepang, the site of February 2025 pre-season tests, provides a direct comparison as Ducati fields the same bike. Despite dominating the season with Marc Marquez’s world title, Ducati faced growing competition from Aprilia in the season’s second half. Marquez noted, “We’ll see where we stand on Friday, then work to be faster. This track demands flow and consistency to maintain lap times.”

Marquez anticipates strong performances from Bezzecchi, in top form, and Francesco Bagnaia, a Sepang standout. Therefore, the race will test Ducati’s strengths in traction and grip, typically an advantage here. However, he cautioned, “Aprilia showed similar capabilities in the last race, so it’ll be interesting to see where we and others stand.” Additionally, Yamaha’s progress with the V4 prototype, ridden by Augusto Fernandez, adds intrigue.

From a technical perspective, Sportrik Media views Sepang as an ideal testing ground for bike performance. Although Ducati led early in 2025, rivals like Aprilia, backed by engineers such as Romano Albesiano, have narrowed the gap. Thus, data from this race will shape 2026 bike development.

With three rounds and 111 points remaining, Marquez needs to maintain a lead of over 74 points over Bezzecchi to lock second place at Sepang. Nevertheless, he remains relaxed, stating, “We need to work smart, but knowing we’re fast here makes me confident.” Furthermore, Marquez is ready to take risks after enduring three challenging races. He added, “Securing second early lets us enjoy Portimao and Valencia, but it’s not our only shot.”

Sepang’s unpredictable weather is a concern, requiring strategic adaptability for potential rain, which could alter race dynamics.

This race allows Ducati to assess its position against increasingly competitive rivals. Moreover, Marquez’s performance could cement a historic family one-two in the standings, following his brother’s title. However, pressure from Bezzecchi and Bagnaia, alongside advances by Aprilia and Yamaha, ensures a challenging weekend.

Sportrik Media, leveraging deep MotoGP expertise, predicts Sepang will be pivotal for both championship outcomes and technical insights for 2026. Ultimately, fans can expect a thrilling race shaping the season’s end and MotoGP’s future.