Maverick Viñales has admitted that turning down an offer to join Ducati in 2019 and 2020 remains the most significant regret of his racing career. The seasoned MotoGP competitor spoke candidly about this missed opportunity, revealing how the decision has continued to weigh on him despite his ongoing success.
During his career, Viñales has ridden for several teams including Suzuki, Yamaha, Aprilia, and now KTM. He revealed he had a chance to ride alongside Andrea Dovizioso at Ducati, but was swayed to remain with Yamaha. This choice eventually resulted in his unexpected mid-season exit from Yamaha, before moving on to Aprilia and subsequently KTM.
Reflection on Past Choices and Career Impact
Looking back, Viñales openly acknowledged his mistake, saying,
It was a total mistake. The biggest regret of my career.
Although he has found a new sense of satisfaction with KTM and improved his performance, he continues to wrestle with thoughts about what might have been if he had accepted Ducati’s offer.
Viñales also expressed a broader perspective on his journey, noting the unpredictability of fate in motorsport. He explained,
I think everything happens for a reason. Maybe if I had gone to Ducati, I could have gotten injured and never raced again. You never know,
highlighting how his current happiness and stability with KTM help counterbalance past regrets.
Considering What Could Have Been: Titles and Triumphs Lost
The rider speculated on how joining Ducati might have brought him championship titles, contrasting those possibilities with his present state of mind. Despite imagining the success he might have achieved, Viñales stressed the importance of finding personal peace and focusing on future victories.
Viñales’ candor provides insight into the challenges faced by top-level racers, caught between choices that shape their legacy and the pursuit of ongoing achievement. His ongoing commitment to KTM signals his determination to chase new successes, even as the shadow of past decisions lingers.
