Two-time MotoGP World Champion Francesco "Pecco" Bagnaia has signed a multi-year contract to ride for the Aprilia MotoGP team [1, 2].
The move represents a significant shift in the rider market, as Bagnaia departs Ducati after a tenure that included two world titles [2, 3].
Ducati announced Bagnaia's release on June 24, 2024 [4]. This announcement paved the way for Aprilia to secure the rider in what has been described as a major rider-market coup [3, 4].
Reports regarding the exact start date of the contract vary. Some sources indicate Bagnaia will join Aprilia as early as next year [2], while others state the contract runs from 2027 through 2030 [4]. The agreement ensures the champion's presence in the Aprilia stable for several years [4].
The departure follows a breakdown in the relationship between the rider and his former team. Gigi Dall'Igna, the Ducati general manager, said he has lost patience with the champion [1].
Bagnaia's move to the Italian manufacturer Aprilia marks a new chapter for the rider who spent his most successful years with the Bologna-based Ducati team [3, 4]. While he transitions to new machinery, the long-term nature of the deal suggests Aprilia is building its future competitive strategy around his experience and speed [4].
“"I’ve lost patience with him too"”
Bagnaia's transition from Ducati to Aprilia disrupts the current power dynamic in MotoGP. By securing a two-time champion through 2030, Aprilia gains a proven winner capable of leading their technical development, while Ducati faces the challenge of replacing a cornerstone of their recent dominance.
