Ducati team manager Davide Tardozzi has acknowledged that MotoGP’s updated regulations have effectively narrowed the performance differences between manufacturers but issued a Ducati MotoGP rivals warning by revealing that general manager Gigi Dall’Igna is reconsidering the team’s development strategy. This comes as Ducati maintains a strong position during the 2024 season despite early challenges.
Ducati’s Early Dominance and Emerging Competition in 2024
Although Ducati faced setbacks in the pre-season, including shelving its full 2025-spec engine, the team’s riders have continued to dominate much of this year’s championship. Marc Marquez, now 32, has claimed 11 grand prix victories and 14 sprint wins on the GP25 machine, positioning himself closely to securing the 2025 title. Teammate Pecco Bagnaia has contributed with a 12th win of the year at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA).
Recent races, however, have seen Ducati confronted by stiffer competition, particularly from Aprilia and KTM. Marco Bezzecchi’s performance at Misano, where he pushed Marquez tightly until the finish line, exemplifies this intensifying contest among the top manufacturers.
Strategic Shift: Gigi Dall’Igna Reexamines Development Plans
Ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, Tardozzi expressed confidence in Ducati’s early-season form but admitted the team has felt increased pressure from its rivals. This prompted general manager Gigi Dall’Igna to revisit the team’s approach, signaling a potential change in direction for future bike development.
Tardozzi explained,
“We thought that it was good for us to stop the development on the 2025 bike because we saw in the beginning of the year that the performance was incredible,”
showing how Ducati initially believed their competitive advantage was secure.
He added,
“But it seems that Dorna’s rules work very good, because our opponents grow a lot this year. Gigi is now starting to think again.”
“He said it’s better that we go back to the desk and start to open some drawers for something new and start thinking about next year at the end of the year.”
– Davide Tardozzi, Ducati Team Manager
The new concession system introduced in 2024 has applied restrictions specifically to Ducati, while affording benefits to other manufacturers based on their standings, effectively leveling the playing field. As a result, for the first time in two years, three different manufacturers have claimed grand prix wins, and all brands have had podium finishes this season.
Marc Marquez’s Pursuit of a Seventh Premier Class Title
The upcoming Japanese Grand Prix presents an opportunity for Marc Marquez to secure his seventh premier class world championship, provided he outperforms younger brother Alex Marquez by at least three points during the event.
Reflecting on this milestone, Tardozzi said,
“We are very proud because we brought back such a huge champion to win and we hope that will happen. But the possibilities are very, very high.”
“Winning here in Japan is something special, but if it’s not here in Japan, if it will be in Indonesia or wherever, the most important thing is that Marc will be world champion again.”
– Davide Tardozzi, Ducati Team Manager
Racing Outlook and the Impact of Regulation Changes
The steps taken by Dorna in regulating and balancing the field have encouraged stronger performances across multiple teams, diminishing Ducati’s previously insurmountable advantage. With Gigi Dall’Igna already reconsidering plans for future developments, Ducati’s rivals may face a tougher challenge as the manufacturer strategizes to regain its edge in upcoming seasons.
As MotoGP progresses through its 2024 calendar, the unfolding dynamics among Ducati, Aprilia, KTM, and other top contenders will remain pivotal to the championship battle. The tactical decisions made by Ducati’s leadership in the coming months will likely influence not only their own championship hopes but also the broader competitive landscape of MotoGP racing.
