MotoGP’s Thunder Lands Down Under
Phillip Island poised for drama as 2025 heads for its final four Grands Prix
The final stretch of the 2025 MotoGP™ season roars into life at one of the most spectacular venues on Earth — Phillip Island. For riders and fans alike, “The Island” is more than just another circuit; it’s a cathedral of speed where ocean winds whip across Bass Strait and every race promises the unexpected. The penultimate flyaway weekend brings new storylines, familiar thrills, and the unmistakable sound of MotoGP thunder Down Under.
Marquez sidelined, but the fight rages on
Reigning World Champion Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) may already have the crown secured, but injury keeps him out of Australia and Malaysia. That leaves a vacuum in the pecking order — and a fierce fight for second place. Francesco Bagnaia’s form dipped after Indonesia, while Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) has seized the initiative, buoyed by podium pace and confidence. Ducati’s veteran tester Michele Pirro steps in to fill the champion’s seat.
Yet it’s Alex’s teammate Fermin Aldeguer who stole Mandalika’s headlines, becoming the second-youngest MotoGP winner ever. With his first premier-class victory still fresh, the Spanish sensation arrives at Phillip Island with momentum and memories of winning here in Moto2™. A fairytale rookie finale could be brewing.
Aprilia’s mixed fortunes
Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) looked set for another podium before a first-lap clash with Marquez ended his Indonesian hopes. With Jorge Martin still sidelined, the team turns to Lorenzo Savadori, while Raul Fernandez aims to build on a resurgent Sprint podium and strong Sunday showing. Consistency could yet deliver a late-season flourish.
KTM charge gathers pace
Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) continues to defy rookie expectations, slicing into Bezzecchi’s points cushion and eyeing a top-three finish. Teammate Brad Binder, ever-reliable at Phillip Island, hunts his first podium since Lusail. Over at Tech3, Enea Bastianini returns hungry for redemption alongside Pol Espargaro.
Outsiders and home heroes
Franco Morbidelli, Fabio Di Giannantonio, and Fabio Quartararo remain in the mix for the top five, while Jack Miller carries Australian hopes once again — primed for fireworks in front of a roaring home crowd.
From edge-of-the-world views to edge-of-your-seat action, Phillip Island never disappoints. Strap in — MotoGP’s thunder has landed Down Under.