Ducati’s debut season in the MXGP World Championship was always going to be a steep learning curve, and 2025 delivered its share of highs and lows for the iconic Italian brand. Taking on established manufacturers with decades of motocross pedigree is no easy task, and while progress was made, Ducati will already be looking ahead to the next chapter of their project.
One of the riders spearheading the effort this year was Mattia Guadagnini, who came into the year determined to showcase his potential. The 23-year-old made a strong start to the season but was soon sidelined by injury, forcing him to miss a number of rounds.
On his return, it took time to regain form, but he ended the year on a positive note in Darwin, Australia. Guadagnini impressed with a third place in qualifying before taking seventh in the opening moto. With the second race cancelled due to extreme weather, he wrapped up the season with a respectable overall showing.
Despite flashes of speed and determination, Guadagnini ultimately finished seventeenth in the championship standings – a result that doesn’t fully reflect his ability or ambition. Still, at a young age, he has shown there is plenty more to come if given the right opportunity.
Following the MXGP finale, Guadagnini confirmed that his time with Ducati has come to an end. The Italian had initially signed a one-year contract with an option for an additional season, but Ducati opted not to extend the deal.
In Ducati’s official press release, Guadagnini reflected on his year with the team:
“My adventure with Ducati is over, and I’m happy it ended with a positive result. Yesterday’s qualifying went really well, with a good start and an excellent race. Today we only had one race due to the rain, but we made the most of it, with a good start. I was fifth for most of the race, but towards the end I dropped the pace a bit and lost two positions. I thank everyone at Ducati and the Aruba.it – Ducati Factory MX Team. It’s been a difficult year at times, but I’m happy and have no regrets.”
With Ducati set to continue its development into 2026, the focus now shifts to Guadagnini’s future. Still only 23, he will be eager to secure another ride in the MXGP paddock and prove he has the speed and consistency to climb the standings in the years to come.
