As the 2026 season approaches its climax, Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali has expressed his sincere hope that Pecco Bagnaia can rediscover his form for a fitting farewell. Bagnaia, who has been the cornerstone of the Borgo Panigale factory for eight seasons, is set to conclude his tenure before moving to Aprilia next year.
Domenicali acknowledged the current struggles facing the former champion. "I still think Pecco lacks nothing, neither talent nor relationship with the team, and we haven't been able to find the key to this mess that's gotten a bit stuck," Domenicali stated, as quoted by Motorsport.com. He emphasized that despite the recent slump, the mutual respect between the rider and the manufacturer remains intact.
Bagnaia stands as Ducati's most successful rider in the modern era, boasting two world titles and 31 victories. However, having not stood on the top step of the podium for over a year, the pressure is mounting. "I like to remember the Pecco of 2022 and 2023, but also the 11 races he won in 2024. He's a guy I'm extremely fond of," he added.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the garage, Marc Marquez is poised to clinch the 2026 world title this weekend at the Lusail International Circuit. As Pedro Acosta prepares to step into Bagnaia's seat, Domenicali remains optimistic that the final rounds in Qatar, Portimao, or Valencia will provide the perfect "finishing touch" to a truly remarkable chapter in Ducati's history.
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