MotoGP 2025 in Thailand – Marc Márquez's historic victory in Buriram

2025-03-04

The 2025 MotoGP season kicked off on Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, and it was a historic premiere. Marc Márquez, six-time MotoGP World Champion, won his first race for the Ducati Lenovo Team, becoming the first rider since Casey Stoner in 2007 to win on his Ducati debut.

After an intense duel with his brother, Álex Márquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP), Marc took the lead on lap 23 and held it until the finish. Francesco Bagnaia, former 2022 and 2023 World Champion, finished third for the Ducati Lenovo Team, resulting in a strong weekend for Ducati with two factory riders and one satellite rider on the podium.

The race was full of drama. Marc Márquez took the lead straight away and looked to be in control of the race, but on lap seven he slowed down and let his brother pass. The reason was unclear but could have been due to tyre pressure, fuel consumption or a tactical manoeuvre. Álex held the lead for several laps before Marc made his decisive move at turn 12 on lap 23.

Marc Márquez's move to Ducati

After a long and successful career with Honda, where he made his MotoGP debut in 2013 and won six world championship titles, Marc Márquez decided to change teams. In 2024 he raced for Ducati satellite team Gresini Racing. His impressive performances there led to a move to the factory Ducati Lenovo Team for the 2025 season, where he signed a contract that runs until 2026.

Marc Márquez, one of MotoGP's most successful riders, six-time world champion and known for his aggressive riding style and spectacular racing. — Marc Márquez has won six MotoGP World Championships and is one of the most dominant riders in modern racing history. His talent and courage have made him one of the sport's biggest names.

What is MotoGP?

MotoGP is the highest class in motorcycle racing, where the world's best riders compete on purpose-built motorcycles with top speeds in excess of 350 km/h. The series has been around since 1949 and each season consists of several Grand Prix races around the world.

Thailand's role in MotoGP

Thailand made its debut as a MotoGP host in 2018 at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram. Since then, the track has become a favorite among riders and fans alike, known for its fast straights and technically challenging corners. MotoGP's presence has increased the popularity of motorsport in Thailand and contributed to the country's sports tourism.

Chang International Circuit – Buriram's racing arena

Chang International Circuit, inaugurated in 2014, is Thailand's premier racing track.

Length: 4,55 km
Number of curves: 12
Capacity: 100 000 spectators in capacity

The track has become an important part of Thailand's sports tourism and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, benefiting both the local economy and the country's international exposure.

Marc Márquez celebrates victory in the 2018 Thai GP at Chang International Circuit — Marc Márquez, riding for Repsol Honda, celebrates his victory in the 2018 Thai GP at Chang International Circuit in Buriram. He won the race after a dramatic duel and also secured his world championship title that year. Marc Márquez has competed in Buriram three times and has won all of the races.

Text: The editorial staff

Image license: jingoba, Pixabay, original image