Valentino Rossi, the legendary MotoGP rider and team owner, has weighed in on the recent developments surrounding his protégé, Pecco Bagnaia, and his future with Ducati. In a rare public statement, Rossi expressed his disappointment with Ducati's handling of Bagnaia's situation, suggesting a lack of effort from the factory to regain their former glory.
Bagnaia's remarkable 2022 and 2023 seasons, marked by his first two MotoGP titles, seemed to have signaled a new era for Ducati. However, the arrival of Marc Marquez last year signaled a shift in priorities, leading to Bagnaia's displacement as the team's primary rider. The 2025 season, which was emotionally challenging for Bagnaia, further strained his relationship with Ducati, leading to rumors of his replacement by Pedro Acosta.
Rossi, during his appearance at the Catalan Grand Prix, praised Bagnaia's dedication and performance, highlighting his determination to win again with Ducati. He noted Bagnaia's 'really good attitude' and 'really giving it his all' in training, despite the challenges they've faced. Rossi's support for Bagnaia is notable, given their close relationship and the VR46 team's partnership with Ducati.
However, Rossi also called for Ducati to match Bagnaia's effort, suggesting that the team's commitment has wavered. He drew a parallel between Bagnaia's situation and a marriage where love has faded, emphasizing the need for Ducati to put in the same effort to regain their winning ways. Rossi believes that the potential for success is still there, but it requires a renewed dedication from the factory.
The ongoing tension between Bagnaia and Ducati has raised questions about the future of the Italian rider. With Bagnaia set to move to Aprilia in 2026, Rossi's comments imply a potential rift that could impact the team's performance. As Ducati navigates this transition, Rossi's perspective offers a unique insight into the challenges of maintaining a winning mindset within a changing team dynamic.
