MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Fabio Di Giannantonio of VR46 Racing Team heads into the Spanish MotoGP 2026 at Jerez with a clear focus on-track performance, as speculation surrounding his future in the premier class continues to build.
The 27-year-old Italian is out of contract at the end of the current season, while internal dynamics within the Ducati-backed structure suggest a potential reshuffle. The VR46 outfit, aligned with Ducati, is widely expected to secure Fermin Aldeguer for one of its seats in 2027, leaving one position theoretically available—though Di Giannantonio’s options may extend beyond his current team.
Despite the uncertainty, Di Giannantonio has maintained competitive form in the early phase of the season. He arrives in Jerez fourth in the riders’ standings as the highest-placed Ducati rider, although his results include just one grand prix podium so far, achieved at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
“There’s a lot of speculation, but it’s also a positive situation: at twenty-seven, knowing there’s interest in you is important,” Di Giannantonio said, as reported by GPOne.
“I’m grateful for the position I’m in. That said, I want to stay completely focused on the season.”
He emphasised that all contractual discussions are being handled by his management, allowing him to maintain full concentration on performance objectives during race weekends.
“In fact, I don’t want any distractions. I have a manager who handles all the contract negotiations.”
“I just think about being fast and trying to win every race.”
Alongside the contractual context, Di Giannantonio has also been managing physical issues following recent incidents. He revealed ongoing back pain stemming from crashes in Brazil and during the Sprint race in the United States, later diagnosed as a minor fracture.
“In recent weeks, I’ve had some back pain following the falls in Brazil and the Sprint race in America.”
“We ran some tests and found a small fracture, but nothing to worry about. It’s mostly a result of accumulated pain.”
The break between races has been used to prioritise recovery and restore both physical condition and mental clarity ahead of the European leg of the season.
“Over the past few weeks, I’ve focused on recovering, trying to get back into the best possible shape, even taking a few days to mentally disconnect.”
“At the moment, I still have discomfort, especially in certain positions, but it’s manageable and shouldn’t limit me this weekend.”
“Up until now, I’ve been using painkillers, but I don’t think they’ll be necessary here.”
Di Giannantonio’s approach reflects a structured separation between competitive execution and contract negotiations, a key factor in maintaining consistency under pressure. With Jerez demanding precise bike control and effective tyre management, his performance this weekend will be a critical indicator of both his championship trajectory and his positioning within the evolving MotoGP rider market ahead of 2027.
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