MotoGP News: Marquez outduels Bezzecchi at Misano

Marc Marquez delivered a masterclass at the San Marino Grand Prix, overtaking polesitter Marco Bezzecchi’s Aprilia and fending off a relentless challenge to claim victory at Misano aboard his factory Ducati. The win solidified Marquez’s dominance in the 2025 MotoGP season and showcased his ability to thrive under pressure in a thrilling duel.

–by Mark Cipolloni-

Bezzecchi held the lead into Turn 1, but Marquez quickly surged to second, passing his brother Alex on the special-liveried Gresini Ducati. Shadowing Bezzecchi in the opening laps, Marquez seized his chance on Lap 12 when Bezzecchi ran wide at Turn 8, allowing the championship leader to take the lead with a decisive move.

The Aprilia rider refused to relent, keeping Marquez within striking distance for the remainder of the race. The two traded fastest laps, engaging in a tense cat-and-mouse battle on the Italian circuit, with Bezzecchi never letting Marquez build a comfortable gap. Despite the pressure, Marquez stayed composed, crossing the finish line just ahead of Bezzecchi in a wheel-to-wheel spectacle that earned mutual respect from both riders.

Pedro Acosta showed early promise, charging from ninth to fourth in the first six laps on his KTM. However, a malfunctioning ride-height device forced the rookie to retire prematurely, ending his podium hopes. Francesco Bagnaia’s 2025 struggles continued, as the two-time world champion suffered an unforced crash on Lap 10, watching the race’s conclusion from Ducati’s garage in frustration.

Fabio Quartararo, starting third, faced another disappointing outing for Yamaha. The bike’s limitations were exposed as he slipped through the field, finishing a distant eighth, underscoring the team’s ongoing performance issues.

Marquez’s victory, marked by precision and resilience, sets the stage for an electrifying MotoGP season as the championship battle intensifies.

The result pushes Marquez closer to securing the 2025 MotoGP title. The Spaniard will have an opportunity to etch his name onto the premier class trophy at the Japanese Grand Prix in two weeks time.

2025 San Marino GP at Misano Results – 27 Laps