Aprilia‘s motogp Challenge too Ducati: Numbers Reveal a Disparity
Valencia, Spain – November 21, 2024 – Despite a late-season surge that saw Aprilia riders challenging for victories, a deeper analysis of 2024 motogp data indicates the Italian manufacturer’s threat to Ducati’s dominance might potentially be overstated. While Jorge martin’s championship bid kept Ducati on edge through the final rounds, Aprilia’s overall performance metrics reveal a meaningful gap in consistency and outright pace compared to the Bologna-based marque.
the 2024 season witnessed Aprilia achieve a breakthrough with six wins - five by Aleix Espargaro and one by Raul Fernandez – marking a substantial improvement over previous years. However, this success was often reliant on specific track characteristics and favorable conditions. Ducati, in contrast, secured 14 victories across its factory and satellite teams, demonstrating a broader capability to perform at a high level across diverse circuits. The championship standings reflect this disparity: Ducati rider Francesco bagnaia clinched the title with 389 points, while the highest-placed Aprilia rider, Espargaro, finished sixth with 233 points.
This season’s data underscores a critical difference in podium consistency. Ducati riders collectively achieved 29 podium finishes, nearly double Aprilia’s 15.This reliability, coupled with a superior qualifying record - Ducati secured 12 pole positions compared to aprilia’s 3 – allowed Ducati to accumulate crucial championship points even on weekends where outright victory proved elusive.
Technical analysis further highlights the performance differences. Ducati’s aerodynamic development, especially the more extreme fairing solution introduced at the Valencia test, demonstrates a commitment to maximizing downforce and minimizing drag. this focus on aerodynamic efficiency,combined with a refined engine package,has provided Ducati riders with a tangible advantage in both straight-line speed and cornering performance. Aprilia, while making strides in engine development, has yet to match Ducati’s level of aerodynamic sophistication.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Aprilia will need to address these essential performance gaps to mount a truly sustained challenge to Ducati. The Valencia test provided valuable data for both manufacturers as they begin preparations for the next campaign, with both teams focused on refining their respective packages to gain a competitive edge. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Aprilia can translate its recent successes into a consistent championship threat or if Ducati will continue its reign at the top of MotoGP.
