Ducati could make test rider offer to MotoGP star who’s just lost his seat

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Luca Marini could be in line for a test rider role at Ducati after losing his seat at Honda, according to a report.

Marini’s options to stay within the Honda roster have gradually slipped away. In the winter, it emerged that Fabio Quartararo would join from Yamaha, which meant at least one of the incumbent factory riders would have to go.

But when the second seat went to Moto2 star David Alonso, they were reliant on Honda expanding. While the Japanese manufacturer held talks with Tech3, Guenther Steiner’s team ultimately opted to extend their KTM deal instead.

VR46 or Ducati test role await Luca Marini after Honda axe

A move to LCR, the existing satellite team, was never realistic for Marini given that Johann Zarco and Diogo Moreira are already under contract for 2027.

Which Italian rider should Valentino Rossi sign for VR46 in 2027?

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According to Moto IT, this effectively leaves the Italian with two options: either he returns to VR46 under his half-brother Valentino Rossi, or he becomes a test rider for Ducati.

Naturally, a full-time race seat with VR46 would be the preferable arrangement, but Marini faces competition from Franco Morbidelli, Nicolo Bulega and Celestino Vietti for that seat.

• READ MORE: Luca Marini confided in Valentino Rossi before leaving his VR46 MotoGP team to join Honda

If he loses out, he might have to settle for a support role instead. Ducati want a replacement for the 40-year-old Michele Pirro, and Marini has ‘important admirers’ at Borgo Panigale.

Marini has been praised for his technical feedback and his contribution to bike development, which could make him an ideal fit. But at the age of 28, he may be more inclined to consider World Superbikes.

What about Luca Marini’s teammate Joan Mir?

Marini’s teammate Joan Mir is joining Gresini next year, based on reports during the Catalan GP weekend, so he will be staying on the grid.

Marini has outscored Mir 43-11 this season, so that outcome may seem harsh on the #10.

However, it’s worth noting that Marini would be much higher up the standings had he not lost P2 in Barcelona to a controversial tyre pressure penalty.

Mir has also outqualified his teammate at every single race but crashed out six times in 12 starts. He appears to have more speed, but Marini has been rewarded for a more cautious approach.