The 2024 MotoGP Championship: Ducati’s Unmatched Dominance
As we reflect on the 2024 MotoGP Championship, it’s hard not to notice the overwhelming presence of Ducati on the grid. The Italian manufacturer showcased its supremacy by fielding eight bikes, more than any other competitor, effectively doubling the numbers of its closest rivals. At the Thailand Grand Prix, Ducati made a remarkable statement by securing all eight positions in the top ten during the sprint race, further solidifying its dominance in the sport.
Throughout the 20-race season, Ducati achieved an astonishing tally, clinching victory in 19 of those races. In what has become a familiar sight, we witnessed all-Ducati podiums on 14 occasions. This level of performance has likened Ducati to an imperial force, likening their bikes to stormtroopers in a battle for supremacy.
When it comes to speed, MotoGP bikes typically see an annual improvement of 0.1 to 0.5 seconds, contingent on the specific track and the manufacturer involved. However, at various circuits during the 2024 season, Ducati riders frequently posted qualifying times that were nearly a full second quicker than their nearest competitors. On average, Ducati machinery was clocking in at 0.3 to 0.5 seconds faster per lap compared to the rest of the grid. This raises an interesting point: if Ducati were to pause development for an entire year, their bikes would still likely outperform any 2025-spec motorcycles from other manufacturers. This scenario underscores the necessity of implementing concessions within the sport.
Many MotoGP enthusiasts, myself included, expressed concerns about the potential withdrawal of historic brands like Honda and Yamaha, especially following Suzuki’s exit from the championship. While concessions were heralded as a potential remedy to restore competitive balance among manufacturers, I remained skeptical. My fear was that manufacturers would merely channel more funds into research and development, only to lose by slightly less margin to Ducati, which could prompt further exits from the championship.
Fortunately, it appears my initial apprehensions were misplaced. The additional concessions, particularly aimed at Japanese manufacturers, are beginning to show positive results.
The concession system is structured based on the points accumulated by each manufacturer during the 2024 season. This system categorizes manufacturers into four distinct tiers: A, B, C, and D.
Tier A
Ducati, having amassed over 85% of the total points in the 2024 season, stands alone in Tier A. Manufacturers in this category are allotted eight engines for the season, which are frozen, preventing any development throughout the racing year. Additionally, Ducati is not entitled to any wildcards for the 2025 season. They can, however, conduct private tests at three different circuits utilizing only test riders. Throughout the season, they have access to 170 tires for testing purposes and are permitted one aerodynamic update.
Tier B
The criteria for Tier B include manufacturers achieving between 60% and 85% of the total points. Given Ducati’s remarkable performance in the previous season, there are no manufacturers placed in Tier B for 2025. Similar to Tier A, manufacturers in this category receive eight engines for the season, which cannot be developed during the year. They are allowed three wildcards, can conduct private testing at three circuits exclusively with test riders, and have 190 tire sets at their disposal. These manufacturers also receive just one aerodynamic update throughout the season.
Tier C
Manufacturers that secure between 35% and 65% of the points find themselves in Tier C. For the 2025 season, this tier comprises KTM and Aprilia. Like those in the previous tiers, manufacturers in Tier C also receive eight engines for the season, and development is frozen during the racing campaign. KTM and Aprilia are granted six wildcards and can utilize any engines under development for those wildcards. They too can conduct private testing at three circuits with only test riders and have a larger allocation of 220 tires for testing. However, like Tier A and B, they are limited to one aerodynamic update during the season.
Tier D
Manufacturers that earn less than 35% of the total points fall into Tier D, a category that currently includes Honda and Yamaha. In this tier, manufacturers are granted ten engines for the season, with the flexibility to develop these engines throughout the year. This is why we witnessed Yamaha testing a V4 powerplant this season. Honda and Yamaha are allocated six wildcards as well, permitting them to utilize any engine that is in development. Additionally, Tier D manufacturers are allowed to conduct private tests at any MotoGP circuit, involving both factory and test riders. They are provided with 260 tires throughout the season and have the advantage of two aerodynamic updates.
The competitive landscape of MotoGP is evolving, and the 2024 season has set the stage for intriguing developments in the upcoming years. The allocation of concessions across different tiers aims to level the playing field and invigorate competition among manufacturers.
Ducati’s unparalleled performance in the 2024 MotoGP season has raised the stakes for other manufacturers, compelling them to innovate and adapt to keep pace. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on how these changes influence the dynamics of the championship. The excitement and anticipation surrounding the future of MotoGP are palpable, as both fans and teams prepare for an exhilarating racing season ahead.
With Ducati’s current dominance, will other manufacturers rise to the challenge, or will we see a continuation of the Italian brand’s reign? The structure of concessions may well be the key to fostering a more competitive environment in the world of MotoGP, making the upcoming season one to watch closely.
