Ducati has indicated that final decisions regarding MotoGP rider contracts for 2027 will be made only after the team’s official 2026 launch event, leaving Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia’s futures with the brand uncertain for now. The highly anticipated MotoGP rider contracts 2027 are the subject of speculation as almost every contract in the current paddock expires at the end of this season, just before new technical regulations take effect.
Team manager Davide Tardozzi expressed doubt about any early signings, highlighting that discussions with both star riders have so far resulted in no firm agreements. The entire MotoGP market faces a rare moment of instability, with most top riders negotiating their futures amid the sweeping changes coming to the sport. Marc Marquez, fresh from an exceptional run in 2025, is thought likely to continue with Ducati, but questions surround Pecco Bagnaia’s status following his underwhelming recent performance.
Tardozzi emphasized,
“I’d say it’s just talk for now,”
Davide Tardozzi, Ducati MotoGP team manager. He further explained that nothing definitive is expected until after the 19 January launch event, focusing instead on technical and promotional preparations during this period. Bagnaia, who has long identified himself with the Ducati brand, remains openly committed despite the uncertainty.
The manager added that the timing of the contracts is not yet set:
Image of: MotoGP
“I’d say we’ll do it after Madonna di Campiglio, or even later.”
Davide Tardozzi, Ducati MotoGP team manager.
Questions Surround Bagnaia’s Future After Challenging Season
Amid these negotiations about MotoGP rider contracts 2027, Pecco Bagnaia approaches the upcoming season seeking redemption after enduring his weakest campaign with the Ducati factory squad. The two-time world champion managed only two wins throughout the year and finished a distant fifth place overall. Struggles with the bike’s front-end and increased tensions with the team management marked his season, fueling doubts about his long-term position.
Despite these issues, Tardozzi maintains optimism that Bagnaia has learned from his setbacks. During an interview with GPOne, Tardozzi shared his belief in Bagnaia’s resilience, stating,
“He is a very mentally strong person, so I don’t think we’ll find a 2025 version of Pecco, but more of a 2024 version.”
Davide Tardozzi, Ducati MotoGP team manager. Tardozzi is encouraged by Bagnaia’s determination to overcome adversity and expects a stronger showing in the new season.
What Lies Ahead for Ducati and the Rider Market
The delay in signing MotoGP rider contracts 2027 underscores both the unpredictability of the rider market and Ducati’s cautious approach amid ongoing changes. With the team’s spotlight currently on the launch event at Madonna di Campiglio and the preparations for new regulations, all key decisions are set for later in the year. The coming months will likely see intense negotiations and shifting alliances as brands and riders adjust to the evolving MotoGP landscape. Both Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia remain central to the discussion, and Ducati’s eventual decisions will help shape the future composition of the grid as the sport enters a new era.
