Francesco Bagnaia never minces his words. Ahead of the San Marino GP at Misano, the rider set to join Aprilia next season once again voiced his sharp criticism of Ducati's technical direction. In a press briefing at the Romagna circuit, Bagnaia dropped a statement that immediately became paddock chatter: “If we had four GP24s, we would be in the top four of the world championship right now.” That line was not just nostalgia—it was a pointed jab at the Desmosedici's evolution, which he feels has gone backwards.
Bagnaia recalled the 2024 season when he won 11 grands prix on the GP24, only to lose the title to Jorge Martin. He believes the bike's potential back then was nearly unbeatable. “I remember very well that race three years ago and the potential we had,” he said, as quoted by Motorsport.com. Now, with the GP26 developed by Ducati, he feels performance has dropped. Aprilia has surged ahead, while Ducati has lost its way. “Maybe this weekend if we find something, we can fight. Otherwise, Aprilia will be very strong,” he added.
Bagnaia's criticism didn't stop there. He even questioned the usefulness of new components Ducati keeps bringing. “I'm quite convinced we don't need new things. I'm convinced we need old things,” he stressed. However, he also acknowledged that the current bike is the package he must maximize. “But the bike is this and other riders can be fast. So it's my problem and I have to adapt,” he concluded with a clear tone of frustration.
This statement comes amid a season-long crisis for Bagnaia. Ducati hopes he can return to competitiveness in the remaining races to help Marc Marquez in the title fight against an Aprilia squad featuring Martin and Marco Bezzecchi. If even at Misano Bagnaia's feeling with the GP26 remains poor, it's hard to imagine which circuit could be a turning point before the season ends.
The former world champion also touched on adaptation. For him, the main issue isn't just the bike but the chemistry between himself and the latest generation Desmosedici. “Other riders can be fast with this bike, so I have to look at myself,” he said. Yet the pressure mounts. Ducati certainly doesn't want to lose valuable points in the remaining races, especially with Marc Marquez still fighting in the standings.
Bagnaia also highlighted Aprilia's progress. According to him, the Noale manufacturer has made a big leap, while Ducati has taken a step back. “Aprilia improved, but Ducati also went backwards,” he said. He hopes for a miracle at Misano. “If we can find something, we can fight. But if not, Aprilia will be very strong,” he repeated.
Bagnaia's words are a heavy blow for Ducati, long known as the most innovative manufacturer. On the other hand, it's also an alarm that the rider needs technical support better suited to his riding style. With Ducati still fighting to maintain dominance, Bagnaia's comments could be a wake-up call or a boomerang.
One thing is clear: the San Marino GP this weekend will be a tough test. Bagnaia is not only fighting for results but also to prove he can still shine before leaving the team that made his name. If he fails, Ducati's mission to reclaim the title with Marquez could become even steeper.
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