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Di Giannantonio takes Marini’s vacated VR46 Ducati spot for 2024 MotoGP season
Fabio di Giannantonio, the Italian MotoGP rider, has secured a seat with the Mooney VR46 Racing Team for the 2024 season. Previously, it seemed unlikely that he would have a spot in MotoGP next year. However, a late reshuffle opened up a position at Valentino Rossi’s team, allowing Di Giannantonio to join. He lost his place at Gresini Racing to Marc Marquez, who will be joining the Ducati satellite team after spending 11 years with the Honda factory squad. Although Di Giannantonio was briefly linked to the seat left by Marquez at Honda, Luca Marini was confirmed as the replacement instead. In the last season, Di Giannantonio showed a surge in form, including his maiden win in Qatar. Ducati’s sporting director expressed his concern that Di Giannantonio would be left without a ride for next year, calling it “unacceptable.” Despite receiving a three-second penalty in the season finale, Di Giannantonio finishes 12th in the standings with 151 points. He remained secretive about his future but hinted that he would be present at the upcoming test. The announcement of his move to the Mooney VR46 Racing Team was followed by Di Giannantonio expressing his excitement and gratitude. The team director, Uccio Salucci, expressed satisfaction with their choice, highlighting Di Giannantonio’s recent strong performances. The objective is to help him not only be competitive but also consistent in his results. This move marks an ambitious project and a turning point in the team’s history, with everyone committed to working together towards achieving success.
