In the fast-paced world of MotoGP, team dynamics and rider performance are critical to success. Ducati’s General Manager, Gigi Dall’Igna, recently offered insight into how the Italian manufacturer is managing the presence of two elite riders in their lineup: Marc Márquez and Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia. His remarks painted a clear picture of balance, mutual respect, and the pursuit of one shared mission—bringing Ducati back to the top of MotoGP.
Dall’Igna didn’t hold back in his praise for Marc Márquez, who joined the Ducati family with a reputation as one of the fiercest competitors in the sport. He highlighted Márquez’s precision on the bike, his exceptional ability to get the most out of every component, and his unrelenting competitive nature. “You truly can’t ask for more from Marc,” Dall’Igna said. “I’m genuinely happy to be working with him.”
However, the Ducati boss was quick to emphasize that no rider receives preferential treatment in the team’s garage. Despite Márquez’s superstar status, Dall’Igna insists on maintaining an even playing field among all Ducati riders. “I will never support one rider to the detriment of another,” he stressed. “My commitment is to every single person who rides a Ducati bike.”
This statement reflects Ducati’s broader team-first philosophy—a culture designed to foster internal competition while maintaining unity. In a field where egos and rivalries can easily disrupt team harmony, Dall’Igna’s approach underscores Ducati’s strategic goal: to succeed collectively, not just through individual brilliance.
Still, Dall’Igna didn’t shy away from some critical self-reflection. Despite having a roster packed with talent, including two world champions, Ducati’s official factory team is not currently leading the Team Championship standings. For Dall’Igna, this is a concerning issue. “This is something we owe to our sponsors. It’s important, and we cannot ignore it,” he admitted. His candid acknowledgment shows that, for Ducati, excellence is expected not just on the track but in all facets of performance—including sponsorship commitments and brand representation.
As the 2025 season gets underway, it’s becoming increasingly evident that Ducati has managed to unite two very different riders who are both capable of delivering world-class results. Dall’Igna described Pecco Bagnaia, the reigning world champion, as a rider with rare sensitivity and a deep connection with the machine. “Pecco’s ability to feel the bike is well above average,” he explained. This natural finesse allows Bagnaia to adapt quickly and extract performance in subtle, technical ways that give him an edge.
In contrast, Márquez brings a different kind of energy—a relentless drive and unwavering determination. “Marc, like me, doesn’t stop until he gets what he wants,” Dall’Igna noted. His tenacity, combined with his years of experience and raw talent, makes him an invaluable asset in the Ducati stable.
Though they may take different approaches on the racetrack, both riders share a common goal with Ducati: to return to dominance in MotoGP. Their unique strengths complement each other, providing the team with a powerful dual strategy that balances technical refinement with aggressive ambition.
In the end, Dall’Igna’s remarks reflect not just admiration for two great riders, but a larger vision. By fostering a fair and competitive environment while holding themselves accountable for results, Ducati is laying the groundwork for sustained success. With both Bagnaia and Márquez in their corner, the future looks fast, fierce, and very much painted in red.
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