Marco Bezzecchi
The upcoming MotoGP campaign is all or nothing for Francesco Bagnaia. If it is a continuation of the 2025 term, it may be the last time we see a #63-adorned Ducati bike.
Following a season to forget last year, two-time MotoGP world champion Francesco Bagnaia has a point to prove at Ducati.
2025 ended as his worst season-long performance in the red overalls of Ducati yet, and with Bagnaia’s contract at Borgo Panigale running out at the end of 2026, it is imperative that he finds his lost form to secure his seat.
Ducati chief Davide Tardozzi is reportedly optimistic over a resurgence in results for the Italian this season, but not everyone in the MotoGP paddock is convinced.
- READ MORE: Francesco Bagnaia explains what it’s like watching Marc Marquez celebrate winning at Ducati
Davide Tardozzi thinks Francesco Bagnaia is back 👀 How many races will he win in 2026?
Max Biaggi thinks Francesco Bagnaia’s time at Ducati is running out
In a recent interview via La Sexta, former MotoGP rider Max Biaggi was critical of all parties involved in the struggles that Bagnaia has faced over the last 12 months.
Biaggi highlighted how Ducati have seemingly remained tight-lipped on the situation, and Bagnaia’s cryptic words in the media just fan the flames as everybody tries to make sense of it.
The Italian told journalists, “They say two pieces of evidence make one. In this case, however, there are few pieces of evidence, and what there is, is confusing.
“And when clarification is requested, Ducati remains silent, while Bagnaia speaks in a language that’s difficult to understand. It’s complicated even for us, who are inside the paddock.”
The follow-up question to Biaggi’s strong words on the matter regarded the future of #63 at Borgo Panigale.
Asked if he thinks we’ll see Bagnaia live out his dream of retiring at Ducati, Biaggi replied, “I wouldn’t bet on it. Factories are always looking to promote young riders to ensure continuity.
“It’s worth noting that Bagnaia has a contract with the factory team, so it will be difficult to see him on another Ducati team.”
- READ MORE: Francesco Bagnaia’s first MotoGP boss thinks he has now ‘learnt his lesson’ after 2025 nightmare
Why should Luigi Dall’Igna design a bike that suits anyone other than Marc Marquez?
Francesco Bagnaia has made his feelings clear over a potential exit from Ducati in MotoGP
The 28-year-old is well aware of the implications that another woeful season will have on his future in MotoGP.
As alluded to by Biaggi, landing at a Ducati satellite team for Bagnaia is ‘out of the question’. Given his status as an established multiple-time world champion in the premier class, he will only settle for a factory ride.
Tardozzi has declared that no contract talks will take place between Bagnaia and Ducati until after the launch of their GP26 bike this month.
However, the leadership figures at the team will likely want to see if Bagnaia has found some confidence in the new spec of bike to put up a better season-long performance than he did on its predecessor.
If he fails to do so, then it could prove to be one of the biggest rider/team break-ups in recent MotoGP history.
Receive racing news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
