The battle for the MotoGP World Championship in 2025 will feature one of the sport’s most electrifying rivalries—Francesco Bagnaia vs Marc Marquez. With Bagnaia, the reigning double MotoGP Champion, and Marquez, the eight-time World Champion, now teammates at Ducati Lenovo Team, their clash will define the season. Let’s revisit their key duels from recent years that have built this rivalry into one of the fiercest in MotoGP history.
#5 – Buriram 2024: Dancing in the Rain
At the Thailand Grand Prix, held at Chang International Circuit, Bagnaia looked set to control the race in wet conditions. However, on Lap 9, Marquez made a bold move at Turn 12, sliding past the Italian. Bagnaia, one of the best in wheel-to-wheel battles, immediately retaliated. The duel continued, with another intense exchange on Lap 13, before Marquez crashed out at Turn 8. The battle ended early, but with Buriram on the 2025 calendar, the stage is set for a rematch.
#4 – Le Mans 2024: Last-Lap Battle for P2
The French Grand Prix was another key moment in this growing feud. In a dramatic three-way fight between Jorge Martin, Bagnaia, and Marquez, the latter made his move on Turn 7 of the final lap, overtaking Bagnaia. Though this battle cost both riders a chance to win as Martin took victory, it showed that Marquez was fully back in title contention.
#3 – Aragon 2021: The Battle of the Season
This rivalry didn’t start in 2024—it dates back to Aragon 2021, where Bagnaia secured his maiden MotoGP victory after fending off seven overtakes from Marquez in just three laps. At a circuit where Marquez is usually dominant, Bagnaia showcased his skill and resilience, marking the start of his rise to MotoGP superstardom.
#2 – Portimao 2024: Clash of the Titans, Part I
The Portuguese Grand Prix saw the first major collision of 2024. Fighting for a top-five finish, Marquez attempted a late dive on Lap 3 at Turn 5 but ran wide, allowing Bagnaia to reclaim the position. However, as both riders exited the corner, their lines converged, and contact was made. The incident sparked controversy, with neither rider willing to take the blame. The rivalry had officially reignited.
#1 – Jerez 2024: Clash of the Titans, Part II
Only weeks after Portimao, Bagnaia and Marquez found themselves locked in battle again at the Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez. Bagnaia controlled the early stages, but Marquez closed in lap by lap, setting up a thrilling finish. On Lap 5, Marquez launched an attack at Turn 8, but Bagnaia swiftly countered at Turn 9, with the two riders making contact again. Marquez tried another move at Turn 10, but Bagnaia responded with flawless defense. In the final laps, the reigning champion pulled away, securing victory while denying Marquez a first Ducati win on home soil.
The 2025 MotoGP season will see these two MotoGP legends fighting for the world title on equal machinery. With Bagnaia aiming for a third straight championship and Marquez chasing his seventh MotoGP crown, expect fireworks when these two go head-to-head.
