P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Ducati looks set to lock in its rider line-up for the 2027 MotoGP season, retaining Marc Marquez and pairing him with Pedro Acosta to form one of the most exciting teams in years. As far as the current market goes, Ducati looks like it has been able to have its cake and eat it. There are risks of disaster in this move, but the benefits for everyone involved – as the Buriram sprint gave us our first hint of – are worth the potential headaches….
The current MotoGP silly season is unprecedented, with the whole field facing contract uncertainties before the 2027 regulations overhaul. The unknowns include the impact of new regulations, the performance of Pirelli tires, and the evolving tire development process. The history shows how significant tire changes can affect a season, as seen with Michelin’s modifications in the past. Tires are expected to play a crucial role in determining the pecking order in the upcoming season.
The grid is under pressure to secure contracts without clear information on the new prototypes and Pirelli rubber testing progress. Ducati was keen on signing Marc Marquez due to his exceptional performance in the 2025 season. Marquez’s contract decision was delayed as he waited to gauge his shoulder recovery post-injury.
Rider signings are on hold as manufacturers negotiate with MotoGP SEG over a version of the Concorde Agreement. Manufacturers seek a fairer share of the profits generated from their contributions. Signing riders during these negotiations could weaken the manufacturers’ bargaining position.
