Ducati are looking at one ‘superstar’ talent ‘first and foremost’ as Francesco Bagnaia replacement

Add as preferred source on Google

Ducati are beginning to assess their options for 2027 as friction continues to build with Francesco Bagnaia.

The Italian is in a tense situation with the Borgo Panigale manufacturer, as he cannot figure out why he is struggling on the GP25. Bagnaia dominated at Motegi after Ducati introduced GP24 parts to the bike, only to score no points at Mandalika and Phillip Island on the same machine.

The 28-year-old has been giving blunt answers in media debriefs as he expresses his frustrations towards his team over his struggles. Bagnaia said he has nothing more to prove to Ducati after winning at Motegi, a comment that could make his position ‘untenable’.

Mat Oxley expects ‘tough’ meetings between Ducati and Bagnaia after scoring a ‘double zero’ in the last two races. His dismal results and frustration towards the garage have led many to wonder if the relationship can be repaired, or if a break-up is imminent.

Ducati are looking at Pedro Acosta ‘first and foremost’ to replace Francesco Bagnaia

Bagnaia has created ‘distances’ with Ducati’s top management with his comments and recent performances. With his contract expiring in 2026, an exit from the manufacturer could be likely if the situation is not resolved.

Ducati have given Bagnaia a deadline to convince them that they can trust him enough to tie him down to a new contract. But as a report from La Gazzetta dello Sport notes, it is ‘no coincidence’ that the Borgo Panigale outfit already have replacements lined up.

Bagnaia is ‘demotivated and disheartened’ over his performances and Ducati in 2025, with the team now looking at ‘several young riders’ to replace him. KTM rider Pedro Acosta is under consideration ‘first and foremost’.

The 21-year-old Spaniard is considered to be the ‘future MotoGP superstar’, with several manufacturers eyeing a move for him before KTM tied him down to a new contract in 2024. Ducati are keen on his services, and Acosta wants to ride their bike.

Acosta was denied a move to VR46 after he offered KTM £1.3m to buy out his contract. Now, the factory Ducati team are keeping tabs on the Spaniard for 2027, with Acosta telling his camp he’d like to partner with Marc Marquez.

READ MORE: Everything to know about Francesco Bagnaia from net worth to race number

Who else is in the running to replace Francesco Bagnaia at Ducati?

Acosta has no plans to extend his KTM contract, with Honda also being heavily interested in the 21-year-old. Ducati are looking at the young talent first, but they do have other options on the table.

Fermin Aldeguer is considered an ‘immediate gamble’ for the team after his impressive rookie season with Gresini. He is eyeing a seat with Ducati in 2027, having signed a two-plus-two deal with the manufacturer.

Moto2 star David Alonso would be a ‘long-term investment’ for the Borgo Panigale outfit, with the Colombian displaying incredible talent in the lower classes. Marquez is a keen admirer of Alonso, and Ducati could take a gamble on him in 2027.

There is also the outside chance of Fabio Quartararo, who is mounting pressure on Yamaha to deliver a competitive bike in 2026. Ducati are interested in Quartararo and could pull off a major coup by signing the Frenchman alongside Marquez.