Franco Morbidelli has spoken out about the unusual circumstances surrounding his contract talks with the VR46 team for the 2026 season, describing the process as unlike any other he has experienced. This revelation came just before the Catalan Grand Prix, shortly after the VR46 Ducati team officially confirmed Morbidelli’s re-signing, ending widespread rumors about Pedro Acosta potentially joining Valentino Rossi’s squad. The focus on Franco Morbidelli VR46 contract talks has intensified due to the transparency and uniqueness of the negotiations.
Transparency and Unconventional Discussions Within the Team
Morbidelli, a longtime member of the VR46 Academy, highlighted how open and honest the conversations with Valentino Rossi and team manager Uccio Salucci have been. He described the negotiations as a rare mix of formal and informal talks, stating that most of the serious negotiation is handled by his manager Gianluca Falcione. Meanwhile, the exchanges between him, Uccio, and Rossi remain candid and straightforward, fostering a positive dynamic within the team.
“When we sit down and talk, both ways are very open to each other,” —Franco Morbidelli
“It’s a very unique kind of negotiation. For sure, the more serious part is taken care of by Gianluca [Falcione]. He’s the serious one, while between myself and Uccio, myself and Vale, we are just talking openly to each other. It’s quite nice.” —Franco Morbidelli
Confidence in Ducati’s Performance Amid Ongoing Developments
Despite ongoing rumors and the high-stakes nature of MotoGP, Morbidelli remains optimistic about Ducati’s prospects heading into the next season. The team is currently deciding on the bike specifications for 2026, and excitement surrounds what developments may emerge. Ducati currently has three GP25 motorcycles on the grid, piloted by renowned riders including Marc Marquez, Pecco Bagnaia, and Fabio Di Giannantonio. Morbidelli, along with Alex Marquez and Fermin Aldeguer, continues to ride the GP24 model.
Morbidelli’s Perspective on the Transition to the GP25
Marc Marquez has dominated much of the 2023 season with the GP25, raising questions about the bike’s evolution compared to its predecessor. Nevertheless, Morbidelli expressed no worries about moving from the GP24 to the GP25. He emphasized Ducati’s outstanding reputation and engineering quality, underscoring the confidence riders have in the brand’s machines both on and off the track.
“There should never be a concern on riding a Ducati. We all know the potential of Ducati. We all know the quality of their way of working. We know the quality of their machines. And how good they all work on-track and off-track. So, there shouldn’t be any concern on that matter.” —Franco Morbidelli
Implications for the MotoGP Season Ahead
With Morbidelli confirmed to continue with VR46, the MotoGP storyline gains fresh momentum, sparking new discussions among fans and experts. His distinctive approach to contract talks and close relationships within the team might influence VR46’s strategy as Ducati prepares for a competitive 2026 season. As the sport moves forward, attention will remain on how Morbidelli and the wider VR46 team capitalize on their unique dynamics and machinery advancements.
