Marco Bezzecchi
Francesco Bagnaia has vowed to fight for MotoGP victories after finishing on the podium at the Italian Grand Prix.
On Sunday, the 2026 MotoGP season continued with the Italian Grand Prix, taking place around the Mugello Circuit.
It turned out to be a dominant display from Aprilia, as Marco Bezzecchi won the race ahead of teammate Jorge Martin, with Bagnaia finishing third on the factory Ducati.
As a result, Bezzecchi now leads Martin by 17 points at the top of the standings.
Although the Italian Grand Prix was dominated by Aprilia, Bagnaia produced an impressive display to finish third after enduring a tough start to the season.
Tell us how much you enjoyed the race at Mugello!
Francesco Bagnaia makes ‘promise’ after finishing third at the Italian Grand Prix
Speaking after the race, the Italian made a ‘promise’ to start fighting for victories, claiming his podium at Mugello was a ‘starting point’.
When asked whether his ‘nightmare’ is now over, Bagnaia said to GPOne: “I really hope it’s like that (fingers crossed).
“Since the beginning of the season, we have worked with a different mentality, and I am giving everything at home, in training, here, to return to the level I was used to.
“The Ducati works differently than in the past, and we are trying to get it to drive 100%. We are reaching that level.
“I know this track fits my driving style well, but I want this result to be a starting point. If we continue like this, I promise that I will fight for victory again.”
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Francesco Bagnaia reflects on ’emotional’ Italian Grand Prix weekend
Bagnaia went on to admit that finishing on the podium in his home country was ‘incredibly emotional’.
He added: “Today was incredibly emotional, even though I didn’t win, because I feel like we really deserved this result. It’s not like a victory, but similar. Plus, I was named ‘rider of the day’… at least that’s a victory (laughs).
“It’s incredible how easy it is to feel the passion of the fans here. I also liked how we applauded Martin; usually, Italians are a bit harsh with other drivers, but that wasn’t the case today.
“I enjoyed every moment this weekend, and seeing that sea of people under the podium is one of the greatest feelings for a driver. The Mugello podium is the best in the world.”
Bagnaia will have the chance to put his ‘promise’ into action this weekend when the 2026 MotoGP campaign continues with the Hungarian Grand Prix, taking place around the Balaton Park Circuit.
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