In the fast-paced world of MotoGP, the excitement is already revving up as Ducati Corse and Francesco Bagnaia lock in their love affair for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. The two-time MotoGP World Champion is sticking with the Borgo Panigale crew, guaranteeing an all-Italian powerhouse pairing that blends the cutting-edge Desmosedici GP with Bagnaia's raw talent, passion, and grit.
Hailing from Turin and calling Pesaro home, Bagnaia joined forces with Ducati and Pramac Racing back in 2019. Now, with this contract renewal, he's etching his name deeper into Borgo Panigale's history books, becoming only the second rider to clock in eight glorious years with Ducati.
Bagnaia's journey with the red beast hit a significant milestone in 2020 when he clinched his first MotoGP podium at his home turf in Misano. The following year, he ascended to the factory team and narrowly missed bagging the World title, settling for the runner-up spot.
However, 2022 was the game-changer. Bagnaia roared to victory, securing his first MotoGP Riders' World title and making history as the first Italian to do so on an Italian bike – the mighty Desmosedici GP. This triumph echoed Ducati's previous glory in 2007 with Casey Stoner. Undeterred, Bagnaia kept the momentum going, claiming the World Champion title once more in 2023, boasting an impressive season with 15 podiums, seven victories, and seven pole positions.
With the iconic number 1 gracing his bike's front fairing, Bagnaia is set to continue his red-hot reign in the 2024 season, starting in Qatar.
In his own words, Francesco Bagnaia shares, "I am so happy to continue racing with the team of my dreams! Wearing these colours is an honour for me. It's fantastic and a source of pride. Together with Ducati, my team, and all the guys at Ducati Corse, we've achieved incredible things. In these three more years (including 2024) ahead of us, we'll continue to give our best to achieve as much success as possible. I am overjoyed and ready to hit the track in Qatar for the first race of the year."
Ducati's CEO, Claudio Domenicali, chimes in on the renewal, saying, "Pecco is truly the perfect rider for Ducati. He represents our values at their best: style, elegance, and performance. Not only is he fast, determined, and tenacious on track, but he also stands out for his elegance and education off the track. I am very happy for this renewal, which I am sure Ducatisti all over the world will welcome with enthusiasm."
Luigi Dall'Igna, Ducati Corse General Manager, expresses their delight, "We are extremely happy to have Bagnaia with us again for 2025 and 2026. Together, we have written an important page of motorcycling history..."
As the red revolution continues, Bagnaia's extended partnership with Ducati promises more thrilling chapters in the captivating tale of high-speed passion, grit, and victories. Stay tuned for the next heart-pounding twist on the track!
