Marco Bezzecchi
Davide Tardozzi may be on his way out at Ducati at the end of next season, and Michele Pirro has already addressed whether he would want to take the mantle of team manager in 2027.
A recent report has suggested that Davide Tardozzi’s future at Ducati is uncertain due to figures within the team not being happy with some of the contrasting statements he has put out regarding Francesco Bagnaia’s struggles in 2025.
It would be a shocking move from the Italian constructor, who have enjoyed so much success with the 66-year-old spearheading their MotoGP operation.
Since the beginning of his tenure in 2014, Tardozzi has managed to turn Ducati from a midfield outfit into a dominant constructor.
In the last six seasons alone, the Italian has brought back six consecutive constructors’ championships to Borgo Panigale, a stark contrast to the team they used to be.
- READ MORE: Davide Tardozzi admits Ducati could not give Francesco Bagnaia the ‘maximum help’ in 2025
Who should replace Davide Tardozzi at Ducati?
Michele Pirro shares whether he would like to take on Davide Tardozzi’s role at Ducati
In a recent interview with GPOne, Michele Pirro was asked about his future plans after he retires from his active riding career. Now 39 years old, a role in team management could be a natural option.
The Italian said, “I would like to do something great for Ducati in the future.
“I have learned a lot in these almost 15 years, during which I have also been the glue between Ducati Corse and Ducati Motor, and I believe I would have the opportunity to do well where I am needed.
“In the future, I don’t see myself as an organiser, but I wouldn’t mind being a team manager. Also, because I come from this world, I know the riders, and I have 25 years of experience in racing, which I think is important.”
Then asked if he would be ready to take over from Tardozzi, Pirro replied, “We’ve never discussed it, but I know that Tardozzi has done and continues to do a great deal for the company.
“I’ve learned a lot from him, and I see myself in what Davide has done. Like me, he has dedicated his career and his years to Ducati. So, maybe, why not?! Together, we can continue to write history.”
- READ MORE: Michele Pirro shares whether Francesco Bagnaia will ‘battle’ Marc Marquez for the 2026 MotoGP title
Is replacing Davide Tardozzi at Ducati the right move?
Michele Pirro is one of three candidates who could take the place of Davide Tardozzi
According to a report by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Pirro is one of three names who have been tipped to take the reins from Tardozzi if Ducati decide to pull the trigger on his exit.
Pramac chief Gino Borsoi is also on the shortlist. The 51-year-old is well-versed on the behind-the-scenes happenings at Borgo Panigale through Pramac’s former affiliation with the constructor as a satellite outfit.
What’s more, Borsoi led Pramac to dethroning Ducati in the team’s championship in 2023, as well as aiding Jorge Martin’s title success with the team in 2024.
The highly experienced Francesco Guidotti has also been touted as a possible successor.
The former KTM manager has previous experience working with Ducati’s star rider Marc Marquez, and is currently on a sabbatical from the MotoGP paddock after departing from the Austrian constructor at the end of 2024.
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