Credit: Ducati
The General Manager of Ducati, Gigi Dall’Igna, described Enea Bastianini’s podium at the MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas as a crucial milestone in determining the future of the rider. Bastianini’s current contract is set to expire at the end of 2024 and, despite a challenging season marked by injuries, he hopes to continue with the team. Having won four races in 2022 with Gresini Ducati, Bastianini earned his opportunity with the factory team and even reached third place in the Drivers’ Championship. In the early stages of 2024, he showed signs of returning to that level, securing second place in Portimão and third place in Austin.
Dall’Igna praised Bastianini’s recent performances, especially his late overtake on Pramac’s Jorge Martin, which allowed him to finish as the top Ducati rider and secure a place on the podium. Speaking to Autosport, Dall’Igna described the race as intense and physically demanding, full of duels and overtakes. He emphasized the importance of Bastianini’s podium, highlighting his consistency and gradual improvement on the track. Bastianini’s Ducati was the first to cross the finish line, propelling him to second place in the World Championship standings. Dall’Igna stated that this achievement was a crucial step in the right direction, as Bastianini needed greater continuity in his performances.
During the race, Ducati riders Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin faced vibration issues, a recurring problem for the manufacturer. In an attempt to solve this problem, Ducati will conduct a private test with test rider Michele Pirro before the Spanish Grand Prix. Dall’Igna acknowledged the challenges of the long and difficult championship, emphasizing the importance of providing their riders the opportunity to showcase their best performances. The upcoming test in Barcelona with Michele will play a significant role in testing changes to the bike’s setup, which will be subsequently confirmed with the factory riders during the tests following the Jerez Grand Prix.
Dall’Igna also praised Gresini’s Marc Marquez for his performance in the Americas GP, despite his crash caused by brake issues. He acknowledged Marquez’s exceptional skill in the race, including briefly leading the race, which demonstrated his skill, experience, determination, and enthusiasm.
© 2024
