P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Ducati is expected to lose its highest-scoring MotoGP rider of 2026. As good as he’s been, Ducati won’t spend too much time dwelling on that
Ducati is expected to lose its highest-scoring MotoGP rider, Fabio Di Giannantonio, to KTM for the next season, as reported by Sky Sports Italia and Motorsport.com.
This move would have significant repercussions for other MotoGP riders and even the World Superbike grid, with Nicolo Bulega likely to take over Di Giannantonio’s VR46 ride.
Ducati has been facing a talent drain as high-performing riders leave the stable due to the team’s inability to offer factory seats.
Di Giannantonio had expressed his desire to remain a factory Ducati rider, but ultimately, KTM’s offer proved more appealing due to their necessity to strengthen the factory team lineup.
Ducati’s history of not being a lavish spender on rider contracts has led to the departure of talented riders in the past, despite their success on Ducati machinery.
The decision reflects the competitive nature of MotoGP, where riders seek the best options to elevate their careers and compete for championships.
