These have been hectic weeks. The ‘silly season’ for the 2025 season has completely shaken the foundations of the MotoGP™ World Championship paddock. One of the most notable episodes, without a doubt, was written by the Ducati Lenovo Team, generating, as expected, a true ‘domino effect’ that has involved various top-class manufacturers. The signing of Enea Bastianini for the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team, announced this Thursday, puts an end to a ‘series’ that has kept all motorsport lovers in suspense for a few vibrant weeks.

Three candidates for one seat

Partner of the current World Champion, ‘Pecco’ Bagnaia, in the official Ducati team for the last two seasons, ‘The Beast’ aspired to renew his contract after a difficult first year marked by an injury. His podium finishes this year at Portimao and in Austin fuelled hope reinforced by ‘Pecco’ himself, who did not hide his preferences towards his teammate. Both would help create an unforgettable ‘Festa della Repubblica’ in Mugello with a prestigious 1-2 at Mugello. His final surprise to Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) seemed to give him an option against the push of the ‘89’ and Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™)

• Bastianini & Viñales confirmed at Red Bull KTM Tech3 from 2025

• Jorge Martín to join Aprilia Racing in 2025 on a multi-year deal

• Marc Marquez signs for Ducati Lenovo Team until 2026

Martin creates the 'domino effect'

However, hours after playing ‘rock & roll’ in front of his fans dressed in front of his fans in the brand new ‘Azzurro’ design, the General Manager of Ducati Corse, Gigi Dall’Igna, admitted that Bastianinj’s revival should not have a great impact on the final decision. During the post-GP Mugello Test, events would suddenly unfold. Shortly before 6:00pm, Aprilia would announce an imminent statement. The ‘bomb’ arrived. Martin signed for Aprilia Racing to fill the void that after the esteemed Aleix Espargaro announced his retirement. Thus, the expected ‘domino effect’ was activated.

Marquez and Bastianini close the circle

With Martin tying his future to the Noale manufacturer, it remained to be seen what would happen with Marquez and Bastianini. All signs pointed to the one chosen by those from Borgo Panigale being the eight-time Champion. The timing was still unknown, although the famous ‘decision’ would not be long in coming. On Wednesday, June 5, with a climate of absolute expectation, Ducati Corse confirmed the signing of the ‘93’ until 2026 with a statement that would reverberate around the world. Without a doubt, one of the biggest signings in the history of the sport. However, Bastianini was left out of the equation. It was a matter of time before he made his move and, a week later, Red Bull KTM Tech3 announced his signing for 2025, forming a talented duo with Maverick Vinales

An inexhaustible market

The last chapter of Ducati’s ‘The Decision’ has been defined, providing an epilogue to an unforgettable series, the consequences of which are not yet fully known. What final impact will Ducati’s commitment to Marquez have in terms of the 2025 MotoGP™ grid’s preparation? The movements are incessant and on motogp.com we will keep you up to date with all the news that one of the most exciting rider markets in history generates.