Raul Fernandez’s striking MotoGP breakthrough in 2025 was fueled by tough conversations and improved physical conditioning, according to Trackhouse MotoGP team leader Davide Brivio. Fernandez, a Spaniard once celebrated for his eight victories and second-place finish in the 2021 Moto2 championship, finally realized his MotoGP potential after several difficult seasons at the top level.
Early Struggles and Rising Criticism
Despite high expectations, Fernandez’s initial MotoGP years with KTM and Aprilia brought modest results, with his best finish being fifth in 2023. Entering 2025, Fernandez continued to face setbacks, failing to crack the top 10 in the first five races and drawing criticism from Aprilia for his underwhelming performances. This period highlighted the challenges many talented riders encounter when adjusting to MotoGP’s competitive intensity.
Midseason Turnaround and Breakthrough Win
The narrative shifted dramatically in the season’s second half. Fernandez not only became a regular top 10 contender but also claimed his first MotoGP victory at the Australian Grand Prix. He narrowly missed another win at Valencia, signaling newfound consistency and competitiveness. Brivio credited Fernandez’s winter overhaul, which focused on effective training and boosting self-confidence as results improved throughout the year.
“I think it’s a matter of… of course, the talent has never been in discussion,”
Brivio, Team Principal, said during the season finale in Valencia.
The Importance of Preparation and Confidence
Brivio explained that the transformation was sparked by Fernandez changing his training approach and concentrating on essential physical preparation. In previous seasons, Fernandez tended to lose pace towards the race’s end. However, at key events like Valencia and Phillip Island, he sustained top performance throughout, making no mistakes across the race distance—an achievement that had eluded him in 2024.
This improved preparation, matched with renewed confidence gained from pouring in top-10 finishes, played a pivotal role in his career-best campaign. Initially, Fernandez and his team faced difficulties scoring points, prompting “hard discussions” about unmet expectations for a rider of his talent. According to Brivio, the turning point came at Le Mans, when Fernandez secured a seventh-place finish, marking the beginning of an upward trend.
Season Highlights and Future Prospects
Fernandez’s momentum grew as he entered a stretch of consecutive top-10 appearances. Notably, his podium in the Indonesian sprint race served as a critical confidence boost, setting the stage for his breakthrough win at Phillip Island. Brivio emphasized the importance of these results for Fernandez’s mindset and overall performance.
“The sprint podium in Indonesia was the click, probably, and then Phillip Island the win. I think we have Raul in a great shape and it’s a pity that the season is finished.”
Brivio, Team Principal, stated.
With his resurgence in 2025, Raul Fernandez has established himself as a rejuvenated contender within MotoGP. The blend of methodical preparation and the support of the Trackhouse team under Davide Brivio’s direction have been instrumental in his progress. As the MotoGP paddock looks ahead to the next season, all eyes will be on Fernandez to see if he can maintain and build upon his newfound success in one of motorcycle racing’s most demanding arenas.
