Francesco Bagnaia, rider of the Ducati Team, has expressed his hope that the recent podium achieved at the Italian Grand Prix could mark a turning point in his MotoGP career. After a complicated start to the season, his performance in Mugello has become a moment of motivation.
In the race, Bagnaia started from sixth position and led the first half of the competition, finishing third behind the Aprilia bikes of Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martín. This has been the first time this season that he has been able to celebrate a podium, as his third place in Barcelona had been the result of a penalty to Joan Mir.
Despite early victories in the previous season, Bagnaia has acknowledged that difficulties have been present in his performance since the start of the 2025 season. However, in the last five races of 2026, he has managed to finish on the podium in at least one of the two races held over each weekend.
Regarding his performance in Mugello, the Italian expressed: “I really hope this marks the end of a long period of difficult moments in MotoGP.” Bagnaia highlighted the changes in his mindset and the continued effort in physical preparation that he has undertaken, aiming to regain his best level.
The rider has stated that his bike has a different behavior compared to previous seasons, and he is now working to adjust it to his preferences. The Mugello track, which has always suited him well, has been a key factor in this success and he considers this result could be a starting point for better performance.
In a reflection on his shortcomings compared to the Aprilia riders, Bagnaia mentioned the lack of rear grip as one of the main problems. Nevertheless, he is confident that the upcoming races in Balaton, Brno, and Assen, with better ground grip, will allow him to be competitive and fight for victory.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
