Stark reality

The stark reality hit home as Honda swallowed its pride to seek outside help, appointing a European as a technical director for the first time when it signed Aprilia's long-serving Romano Albesiano.

Yamaha did the same when it hired Max Bartolini in the hope that he can not only bring his experience from working with Ducati, but also institute a change in culture at a team that has often resisted quick changes.

Next season will also see a big reset on the grid as several riders swap teams, including MotoGP champion Martin, who has made the switch to Aprilia following the factory Ducati team's decision to sign Marquez.

With Aleix Espargaro retiring, Aprilia will have an all-new lineup when Marco Bezzecchi teams up with Martin.

Jack Miller failed to impress at KTM this season, and the Australian has returned to Pramac Racing, which has switched to Yamaha bikes after inking a multi-year partnership deal.

His seat on the KTM team has been awarded to rookie Pedro Acosta, who consistently outperformed the factory machines on a satellite team bike to finish sixth in the standings.

All of them will have their work cut out, however, as Ducati will have Bagnaia and Marquez — with eight MotoGP titles between them — leading their quest for a sixth straight constructors' title.

REUTERS