In tabloid format, Pecco Bagnaia’s performance at the 2024 Grand Prix of the Americas left much to be desired. Despite his previous success on the track, he faced difficulties throughout the weekend and found himself in a tough spot. This reminded him of the start of the 2022 season, when he had to race defensively and was not performing well. Back then, he had a slow start but managed to turn things around and secure a second chance at the title due to his competitors’ mistakes. However, this season has been inconsistent for Bagnaia once again. While he won in Qatar and had chances to win in Portimão, there were also sessions where he was nowhere to be found. His weekend at COTA was full of ups and downs, but he couldn’t produce his usual magic on Sundays.
On Friday, Bagnaia had a promising start to the weekend, but things took a turn for the worse during the sprint race. He struggled with wheel spin at the start and felt that both he and his teammate Enea Bastianini had issues with the rear tires. A specific lap during Saturday morning’s practice highlighted the difference in pace for Bagnaia. Despite using the same rear tire compound, he couldn’t match his previous performance. Comparing his lap times with eventual COTA winner Maverick Vinales showed a significant difference.
During the main race, Bagnaia initially had a good pace and believed he could fight for the win or a spot on the podium. However, his rear tire started vibrating and causing chatter, making it difficult for him to control the bike. This led him to destroy the front right tire and struggle in right-hand turns. The rear vibration has been a recurring issue with the GP24 throughout the season, but it seemed to affect Bagnaia more than others.
It was surprising that Bagnaia and the other Ducati riders opted to use the soft rear tire in the race, considering it was causing issues with vibration. Bagnaia defended the choice, pointing out that Bastianini could have done well with the same tire if he hadn’t had a poor start. However, Bastianini and Jorge Martin outperformed Bagnaia with the same tire, which must have been disappointing for him. The performance patterns of the Ducatis in 2024 have been difficult to understand, with each rider facing different challenges and successes.
Despite his difficulties, Bagnaia remains confident in his team’s ability to solve the problems and return to fighting for the top positions. However, it won’t be as easy as his comeback against Quartararo in 2022. Martin, who has consistently outperformed Bagnaia this season, is currently ahead in the standings. Bagnaia will need to work hard to catch up and compete with his teammate on equal terms.
