P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Ducati’s dream pairing of Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia didn’t deliver the on-track fireworks expected in 2025. With the future of the latter uncertain and rumours of deals with Pedro Acosta being signed, Ducati’s famously shaky crisis management would benefit greatly from a genuine head-to-head for the title between its current duo…
The 2026 Ducati MotoGP bike is expected to be faster than its predecessor due to the addition of racing stripes, a nod to the brand’s 100th anniversary. The unveiling event in January featured Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia in their factory colors for the first time since the Indonesian Grand Prix. Marquez is still recovering from a shoulder injury and may not be at full fitness for pre-season testing in Malaysia in February. Ducati’s focus for the 2026 season is on improving chassis stability and making permitted tweaks to engine performance. Despite the competition from Aprilia, Ducati remains a strong contender with Marquez showing high motivation after winning the title in 2025. Discussions about the future, including Marquez’s contract renewal, are ongoing, with the team aiming to secure the world champion for the upcoming seasons.
