Fermin Aldeguer, one of MotoGP’s emerging talents, is focused on joining the Ducati factory team with hopes to challenge the dominant pairing of Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia by 2027. Currently riding in a satellite role, Aldeguer’s ambition is fueled by a contract directly with Ducati, setting him apart from many peers.
The established Marquez-Bagnaia duo holds strong contracts through the end of 2025, making immediate opportunities limited, but Aldeguer believes consistent strong performances will create an opening in the near future.
Progress on the GP24 and Support from Teammate Drive Ambition
After Ducati signed Aldeguer directly from Moto2, he was placed in the Gresini team, replacing Marc Marquez as the rider of the year-old GP24 bike. Despite using a previous year’s machine, Aldeguer has shown great competitiveness, with the GP24 proving capable alongside the newer 2025 bike, especially in contrast to Bagnaia’s less consistent results.
His teammate, Alex Marquez, riding the 2024 Ducati, has been a strong mentor, providing guidance that helps Aldeguer adjust quickly to MotoGP.
One instance Aldeguer recalled illustrates this support: Alex reportedly came to his room shortly before a race, changing his mind about tyre choice and informing Aldeguer to avoid making a wrong decision.
Aldeguer’s early successes include a podium finish at the French Grand Prix at Le Mans, an impressive feat given his rookie status.
“If someone told me at the beginning of the year that in my sixth race in MotoGP I would be on the podium, I would have told them to lie down,”
he remarked.
“At Ducati they are very happy; I don’t know if they expected the podium to come so soon.”
—Fermin Aldeguer, Gresini Rider
Long-Term Vision Hinges on Performance and New Regulations
Aldeguer’s contract with Ducati spans four years, split into two phases, with hopes that excellent results will earn him promotion to the factory team in 2027. He said,
“The plan of all rookies who compete in a satellite team is to finish in the official one.”
He emphasized that his existing contract and young age give him a strategic advantage over other riders targeting similar goals. The upcoming changes to MotoGP regulations could impact the competitiveness of the bikes and team dynamics, but Aldeguer remains focused on proving himself within the current framework.
“Then we’ll see what happens, but that’s the plan.”
—Fermin Aldeguer, Gresini Rider
As Ducati looks ahead, Aldeguer represents a promising candidate to succeed the current Marquez and Bagnaia partnership. His early adaptation and strong performances suggest he could be well positioned to join the factory team and contribute to Ducati’s future successes on the grid.
