Credit: Ducati
Ducati’s General Manager, Gigi Dall’Igna, described Enea Bastianini’s podium finish at the MotoGP Americas Grand Prix as a crucial milestone in determining the rider’s future. Bastianini’s current contract is set to expire at the end of 2024, and despite a challenging season marred by injuries, he hopes to continue with the team. Having won four races in 2022 with Gresini Ducati, Bastianini earned his opportunity with the factory outfit and even reached as high as third place in the Riders’ Championship. In the early stages of 2024, he has shown signs of returning to that level, securing second place in Portimao and third place in Austin.
Dall’Igna commended Bastianini’s recent performances, particularly his late overtake on Jorge Martin of Pramac, which allowed him to finish as the top Ducati rider and secure a place on the podium. Speaking to Autosport, Dall’Igna described the race as intense and physically demanding, filled with numerous duels and overtakes. He emphasized the significance of Bastianini’s podium finish, highlighting his consistency and gradual improvement on the track. Bastianini’s Ducati was the first to cross the finish line, propelling him to second place in the World Championship standings. Dall’Igna stated that this achievement was a crucial step in the right direction, as Bastianini needed greater continuity in his performances.
During the race, Ducati riders Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin encountered chatter problems, a recurring issue for the manufacturer. In an attempt to address this problem, Ducati will conduct a private test with test rider Michele Pirro ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix. Dall’Igna acknowledged the challenges of the long and difficult championship, emphasizing the importance of providing their riders with the opportunity to showcase their best performances. The upcoming test in Barcelona with Michele will play a significant role in testing changes to the bike’s set-up, which will then be confirmed with the factory riders during the tests following the Jerez Grand Prix.
Dall’Igna also praised Marc Marquez of Gresini for his performance at the Americas GP, despite his crash caused by brake problems. He acknowledged Marquez’s exceptional racecraft, including briefly leading the race, which showcased his skill, experience, determination, and enthusiasm.