In a recent interaction during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony, MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi shared his views on Francesco Bagnaia’s prospects for the 2026 MotoGP season with Italian President Sergio Mattarella. Rossi expressed confidence in Bagnaia’s motivation and readiness to perform, highlighting the Italian rider as a key figure for the upcoming year.
Valentino Rossi appeared in a pre-recorded segment portraying a tram driver at the San Siro stadium in Milan, where President Mattarella arrived for the ceremony. Despite having retired from racing since 2021, Rossi maintains a close relationship with MotoGP through his VR46 Academy and VR46 Racing Team, continuing to influence the sport.
President Mattarella’s Interest in Bagnaia and Italian MotoGP Talent
During their conversation, President Mattarella inquired about the state of Italian riders in MotoGP, showing particular interest in Bagnaia’s form. Rossi informed the President that although the 2024 and 2025 seasons have been challenging for Bagnaia, the rider remains determined to excel. Bagnaia secured MotoGP World Championships in 2022 and 2023 but experienced a significant dip in 2025, finishing fifth overall.
Rossi recalled,
“He asked me how we’re doing in the MotoGP World Championship. How’s Bagnaia? I reassured him, telling him it’ll be tough, but Pecco seems motivated and ready to have a great season.”
And he said, ‘Well, so can we beat these Spaniards?’ Great.
?Valentino Rossi, MotoGP Hall of Famer
Future Uncertainties for Bagnaia’s Career Post-2026
The 2026 season may be crucial for Bagnaia, as it represents the final year of his contract with the factory Ducati team, which he joined after moving up from Pramac Ducati in 2021. Having raced with Ducati since 2019, Bagnaia is now facing the possibility of losing his seat for the 2027 season due to recent performances and incoming talent.
Reports indicate that Ducati plans to replace Bagnaia with Pedro Acosta alongside teammate Marc Marquez, who joined Ducati’s factory squad recently. This impending change has sparked speculation about Bagnaia’s next move in MotoGP.
Speculated Next Teams for Bagnaia Beyond Ducati
Among the possible options for Bagnaia in 2027, Yamaha is the leading candidate to sign the Italian champion. Additionally, Jorge Lorenzo has praised Aprilia as an attractive and competitive option for Bagnaia’s future. Both manufacturers could offer Bagnaia opportunities to continue competing at the highest level despite his transition from Ducati.
The 2026 season will therefore be pivotal for Francesco Bagnaia, as his performance may influence contract decisions and his career trajectory within MotoGP’s competitive environment. Valentino Rossi’s endorsement and optimism underscore the high expectations placed on Bagnaia by the Italian motorsport community and fans alike.
