Francesco Bagnaia expressed his disagreement with critics who suggested that the current world champion would oppose Marc Marquez’s entry into the Factory Ducati team. Some reporters insinuated that this could potentially lead to conflicts between the two riders, both successful and competitive in MotoGP. These rumors gained strength after Bagnaia and Marquez collided in Portimão during the Portuguese Grand Prix.
“I came across a video claiming that I don’t want Marc in the factory team, but that’s absurd,” Bagnaia said. He continued: “I couldn’t care less. My only goal is to surpass them all, constantly strive to be the best and continue on this path. I really have no preference.”
Bagnaia added: “I am collaborating effectively with Enea [Bastianini]. And if the team decides to change my teammate, we will have to start over. However, my ambition always remains to be stronger than them.”
During the previous race in Jerez, Bagnaia and Marquez captivated the Spanish audience as they fought intensely against each other until the checkered flag. In the end, Bagnaia emerged victorious, overtaking Marquez in the final laps.
Marquez has already participated in four races with the Ducati Desmosedici GP23 for the satellite team Gresini Racing. This team uses the previous season’s Ducati bike and Marquez has already achieved a podium in Jerez and a podium in the sprint race in Portugal.
After 11 years with Repsol Honda, Marquez left the team at the end of 2023. Reflecting on his progress with Ducati, Marquez commented: “Gradually, I am feeling more comfortable on the track. I feel stronger and much more confident, which was my goal for this year.”
He continued: “Obviously, in 2025 and ’26, if I keep improving, my goals will change. So, I would aim to compete for the championship. To do that, it’s crucial to have the latest equipment on my bike, which increases my chances”.
Enea Bastianini took over Jack Miller’s position in the Ducati factory team for the 2023 season, but missed nine races of the championship due to injury. With the intense battle between Jorge Martin and Bagnaia in 2023 and Marquez’s impressive start in 2024, the second seat at Ducati became a significant topic of discussion.
The championship leader, Jorge Martin, revealed: “The logical progression would be to join the Ducati factory team. I came very close in ’22 and last season it was a tough decision until the final race. My goal is to reach that level and hopefully achieve it soon. However, if it doesn’t happen, we’ll see what happens”.
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