Ducati Racing Chief Anticipates Challenges for 2023 MotoGP Season
Ducati’s general manager, Gigi Dall’Igna, recently made a candid admission regarding the team’s performance in the upcoming MotoGP season. With the departure of Pramac and a number of key riders and engineers to rival teams, Dall’Igna acknowledged that Ducati will likely be “weaker overall” in 2023.
For the past few years, Ducati has been a dominant force in MotoGP, clinching the 2024 manufacturers’ crown at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. However, changes are on the horizon as the team’s presence on the grid will decrease from eight bikes to six next year. Pramac, a long-standing partner, will be parting ways with Ducati to join forces with Yamaha, further impacting Ducati’s lineup.
Notable departures from Ducati include last year’s runner-up Jorge Martin and race winner Marco Bezzecchi, who are set to join Aprilia, along with works rider Enea Bastianini moving to KTM. These changes leave Ducati with three fewer top-line riders, posing a significant challenge for the team in the upcoming season.
Despite defending some of the decisions made by Ducati, such as limiting the factory bikes to three in 2025, Dall’Igna acknowledged the team’s weakened position with respect to its riders. However, he highlighted the positive addition of six-time champion Marc Marquez to the official team, offering a glimmer of hope for Ducati’s future performance.
Strategic Planning for the Future
Looking ahead to the major regulation overhaul set for 2027, which will introduce smaller 850cc engines and restrictions on aerodynamics and ride height devices, Ducati has already begun discussions on how to adapt to these changes. Dall’Igna emphasized the need to reconsider the design and technical aspects of the bike to maintain Ducati’s competitive edge in MotoGP.
As Ducati navigates these upcoming challenges, Dall’Igna highlighted the importance of leveraging data from the satellite team to enhance the bike’s performance. Despite the decrease in the number of riders for the next season, Ducati remains focused on optimizing its resources and talent to deliver top-notch results on the track.
Adapting to Industry Shifts
With rival manufacturers poaching riders and technicians from Ducati, the team faces a shifting landscape in MotoGP. Yamaha, Aprilia, and Honda have managed to lure talent away from Ducati, posing a formidable challenge for the Italian manufacturer. However, Dall’Igna remains optimistic about Ducati’s ability to rise to the occasion and deliver exceptional performance despite these setbacks.
In the face of evolving regulations and increasing competition, Ducati is committed to staying at the forefront of MotoGP innovation. By proactively planning for the future and strategizing around upcoming changes, Ducati aims to maintain its legacy of excellence in the world of motorcycle racing.
With a renewed focus on technological advancements and talent acquisition, Ducati is poised to tackle the challenges of the 2023 MotoGP season head-on. As the team navigates a changing landscape in the sport, Ducati remains steadfast in its commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and securing its position as a powerhouse in MotoGP.
