Ducati’s CEO Predicts Transformation in Championship Post-Qatar GP

Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati, predicts a shift in the Championship after the Qatar GP, expecting Francesco Bagnaia to have an improved performance following a rocky start to the 2025 season. Despite Marc Marquez’s early dominance, Domenicali remains optimistic about Bagnaia’s return to form and potential victories.

Claudio Domenicali, the CEO of Ducati, anticipates a transformation in the MotoGP Championship after the Qatar Grand Prix, particularly regarding Francesco Bagnaia’s performance. Following a challenging beginning to the 2025 season, Domenicali is optimistic that Bagnaia will soon demonstrate his capability for securing victories.

The competition was projected to intensify with Marc Marquez joining the Ducati Lenovo Team. However, in a surprising turn, Bagnaia currently sits in third place while Marquez has dominated the opening races in Thailand and Argentina. As the MotoGP circuit heads towards preferred venues like the Circuit of the Americas, Marquez is expected to maintain his lead.

Domenicali expressed, “I think Pecco started with two races that weren’t the most favourable for him,” citing that Bagnaia’s winter testing was hindered by issues beyond his control. He emphasized confidence in Bagnaia’s resurgence beginning in the upcoming races, albeit with cautious expectations for the Austin circuit, known to favor Marquez.

Over the course of his MotoGP career, Bagnaia has recorded notable achievements in Qatar, securing two victories at the Lusail International Circuit—a MotoGP and a Moto2 win—as well as four podium finishes in MotoGP and Moto3 combined. However, he has yet to achieve a podium in Sprint Races at this particular circuit.

In summary, Claudio Domenicali foresees a shift in the MotoGP Championship dynamics, particularly concerning Francesco Bagnaia’s performance after the Qatar Grand Prix. While Marquez remains dominant early in the season, Domenicali expresses optimism about Bagnaia’s potential to reclaim his position as a leading competitor. Bagnaia’s historical performance in Qatar suggests possibilities for a successful turnaround, although challenges remain ahead.

Original Source: bikesportnews.com