Francesco Bagnaia, rider of the Ducati team, is in a complicated situation in the 2026 MotoGP season. His start to the season has been affected by technical problems and a constant lack of rear grip on the bike.
After a difficult 2025 season, Bagnaia has shown good performance in recent weeks, achieving four consecutive podiums and one victory in a sprint race. However, the three mechanical issues he has suffered have cost the Italian rider up to 40 points, leaving him eighth in the championship, 65 points behind the leader, Jorge Martin.
The lack of grip on the rear of the bike has been the main obstacle for Bagnaia, who feels this prevents him from making the most of his bike’s potential. Moreover, the dependence of Ducati riders on the rear wheel to compensate for limitations at the front has increased tire wear.
Bagnaia has expressed his frustration regarding the current situation, stating that readjusting his qualification is a constant reminder of how much he could achieve if conditions were better. With a score of 5.5 in his season so far, he emphasizes that a solution to the grip problems dating back to the first race of the year has yet to be found.
In relation to his teammates, Bagnaia hopes that his team can follow in Gresini’s footsteps, who found a solution for a similar problem faced by Alex Marquez. He trusts that the summer break will help the team analyze and improve the situation.
Additionally, Bagnaia recently underwent surgery on his right forearm, but he hopes to be in full form for the next race in Silverstone, scheduled for August 8. This year will mark his last with Ducati, as it has been confirmed that he will join the Aprilia team alongside Marco Bezzecchi starting in 2027.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
