Ducati-Bagnaia hanging in the balance? Tardozzi: "We need to talk among ourselves"

Pecco Bagnaia struggled more than expected again in the MotoGP GP at Portimão, unable to find the ideal balance with his Desmosedici. Eighth place in the Sprint, a crash in the race, and third place in the final standings almost mathematically gone. The words of team manager Davide Tardozzi at the end of the penultimate round of the championship.

In Portugal Ducati fielded Nicolò Bulega, who delivered a positive performance, finishing 15th. "His pace at the end of the race was among the top four or five. He was very strong, especially in the final stages, and that makes us very satisfied." The MotoGP weekend, and the next one, will be very useful for the professional growth of the young talent from Emilia. "The learning he’s gaining with MotoGP will be very useful for his work in Superbike and for the development of the T50. It’s an adaptation process, and every lap on a MotoGP bike counts. These experiences will be a very important starting point for next year."

Davide Tardozzi spoke about Pecco Bagnaia’s difficult situation at the end of a disappointing MotoGP season that is nearing its conclusion. "Pecco’s speed has never been in doubt," he told Sky Sport MotoGP. "What complicates things for him is this lack of confidence with the bike. We’re not talking about a physical problem or lack of motivation, but rather a lack of feeling. When a rider doesn’t feel completely at ease with his bike, he can’t ride with the necessary freedom."

The Ducati team manager reiterated, once again, that the team is working tirelessly to rediscover the level shown previously. "We have done everything possible to bring Pecco back to the same form as last year, or like in Japan, when everything seemed to be running smoothly. We believe we have worked in the right direction; if something is still missing, we’ll have to discuss it among ourselves and understand why and how to reach a conclusion."

The MotoGP championship is about to come to an end, but for the Borgo Panigale manufacturer these will be crucial weeks, in which the future will be planned. During the winter break, on-track activity stops, but not in the factory and behind the scenes. "In Valencia we’ll try to wrap up the season on a high," concluded Davide Tardozzi. "Then, testing will be a starting point for everyone. We want to begin the new year with clear ideas. We know we have the potential; we just need to put everything back in place."