The anticipation for the 2025 MotoGP season is on the rise as all teams prepare to unveil their new bikes and liveries in early 2025. With the opening round set for Buriram, Thailand, on March 2, the January and February launches have turned into a spectacle for fans and teams alike. The strategic choice of Southeast Asia, a rapidly growing market for motorcycle racing, is no accident, as many teams choose to present their new contenders in this vibrant region. Nevertheless, not all teams will follow this trend, with some opting for traditional launches in Europe.
Trackhouse: Leading the Charge
Kicking off the launch sequence on January 14, Trackhouse Motorsports will reveal its 2025 MotoGP livery. This American team, better known for its success in NASCAR, is now fully committed to establishing its presence in the MotoGP realm. For 2025, the team has secured reigning Moto2 champion Ai Ogura, who will line up alongside Raul Fernandez. Excitement surrounds the launch following a significant livery overhaul last season, especially as Trackhouse has struck a deal with Gulf Oil that is likely to influence its design aesthetic.
Just two days later, on January 16, Aprilia’s unveiling promises to be a thrilling showcase. The Italian team, poised on the brink of a title fight, welcomes reigning champion Jorge Martin and seasoned racer Marco Bezzecchi to its ranks. The event, taking place in Milan, will be pivotal for the Noale-based manufacturer as it decides whether Martin will race with the coveted number one plate or retain his notable #89 branding. A strong performance is expected as the team looks to build on its previous successes.
Gresini and Ducati: Italian Rivalry Heats Up
On January 18, in Imola, Gresini will unveil its new MotoGP machines, bringing together familiar faces like Alex Marquez and newcomer Fermin Aldeguer under the Ducati umbrella. The presence of two talented riders on 2024-spec Ducati GP24s sets the stage for a competitive season. Only two days later, on January 20, Ducati will hold a presentation in the picturesque Madonna di Campiglio, showcasing its new GP25 livery. The anticipation is especially high for Marc Marquez’s debut in full Ducati gear, following his transition from Honda.
January 30 marks a significant day for both KTM and Tech3, as they unveil their bikes at the Sepang circuit in Malaysia. KTM, despite navigating financial challenges, remains tenacious in its pursuit of success, with Pedro Acosta stepping into a factory role. The upgraded RC16 will likely feature minimal aesthetic changes, retaining Red Bull’s iconic branding. Tech3, however, is set for a transformative season with a new rider lineup featuring Maverick Viñales and Enea Bastianini. The team aims to rejuvenate its competitive edge, with a fresh livery to reflect this renewed vision.
Yamaha and Pramac: A New Collaboration
On January 31, Yamaha will unveil its 2025 M1 at a grand event in Kuala Lumpur, further emphasizing its extended competitiveness under the MotoGP concession system. With race riders Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins at the helm, fans can expect an impressive presentation. On the same day, Pramac Racing will also reveal its bikes, marking the end of a long-standing relationship with Ducati. Now partnering with Yamaha, the team is set to field factory-spec M1s, highlighting the transition as Miguel Oliveira and Jack Miller take center stage.
Honda’s Transformation
Honda, now venturing into a new chapter, will hold its launch in Jakarta on February 1. After ending a three-decade partnership with Repsol, the team is expected to reveal a significantly different design for the factory RC213Vs, showcasing its new identity with an emphasis on its classic red, white, and blue colors. In 2025, sponsorship from Castrol is anticipated to reshape Honda’s branding style, offering a fresh look in the highly competitive environment.
Highlighting fan engagement, MotoGP will orchestrate a special launch event in Bangkok on February 9, allowing enthusiasts to witness all 22 riders and their 2025 bikes firsthand. This event not only brings the sport closer to its followers but also signifies the rising global interest in MotoGP, particularly in Asia.
As teams unveil their innovations and build up to the Buriram season-opener, the 2025 MotoGP World Championship is shaping up to be an exhilarating culmination of speed, technology, and competitive spirit. Each event leading up to the launch serves as a reminder of the high stakes involved as teams vie for supremacy on the track.
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