The 2025 MotoGP season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent years, with 15 premier class Grand Prix winners among the riders lining up. The grid sees high-profile moves, such as Marc Marquez joining the factory Ducati team, Jorge Martin moving to Aprilia after clinching the 2024 World Championship, and Maverick Vinales switching to KTM. However, some riders are under extra pressure to prove themselves this year—whether due to contract situations, career longevity, or internal competition. Here are five riders who need a big season in 2025.
1. Jack Miller – Pramac Yamaha
In 2025, Jack Miller embarks on his 10th year in MotoGP. After a disappointing final season with KTM, Miller returns to Pramac with Yamaha machinery. His career is at a critical juncture: his one-year deal with Yamaha places immense pressure on him to deliver results. The Australian rider’s last win came in 2021, and despite a wealth of experience, he finished the 2024 season without a podium. If Miller doesn’t perform, there could be limited opportunities in the future, with younger talent waiting for a shot at the top. 2025 is likely make or break for the 29-year-old.
2. Franco Morbidelli – VR46 Ducati
At 30, Franco Morbidelli enters his eighth season in MotoGP, and his career trajectory is on the line. After a successful 2020 season where he won three races and finished runner-up in the championship, Morbidelli’s form has significantly declined. Despite a promising start with factory Yamaha, injuries and an ageing bike have hindered his performance. He has a factory Ducati seat for 2024 with VR46, but inconsistency has plagued his results. Morbidelli needs to capitalize on the improved Ducati machinery in 2025 to prove he is still one of the premier talents on the grid.
3. Brad Binder – KTM
Brad Binder’s situation may seem secure with a contract extending until 2026, but 2025 brings a new challenge. While Binder has been KTM’s consistent frontrunner, his 2024 season saw him narrowly edge out rookie Pedro Acosta, who showcased his potential on the RC16. With Acosta now expected to challenge for top spots in 2025, Binder faces the tough task of proving he can outperform his young teammate. How Binder stacks up against Acosta will determine the trajectory of his career and his place at KTM for the long term.
4. Luca Marini – Honda
Luca Marini, who has a two-year deal with Honda until the end of 2025, faces an uphill battle to prove his worth. Despite Honda’s struggles, Marini has shown flashes of potential but was inconsistent in 2024, finishing last among the full-time riders. With Honda under pressure to improve, Marini’s performance this season will be scrutinized. A strong showing in 2025 could secure his future at the factory team, while failure to meet expectations could see him replaced by another rising star.
5. Francesco Bagnaia – Ducati
Although Francesco Bagnaia’s seat is secure through 2026, the arrival of Marc Marquez at Ducati in 2025 brings a new level of pressure. As a two-time world champion, Bagnaia’s skill and speed are undisputed, but Marquez’s presence will test his mettle like never before. Bagnaia’s 2024 season saw him win 11 races but falter with several non-scores, losing the title to Jorge Martin. Marquez’s challenge in 2025 will put Bagnaia’s consistency to the test, and how he performs against one of the sport’s best riders in identical machinery could define his career.
The 2025 MotoGP season promises to be thrilling, with these riders needing to rise to the occasion to secure their places on the grid and make their mark on a highly competitive season.
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