MotoGP, Dall'Igna: “Bastianini or Martin to leave Ducati? They should think hard”

While Bagnaia celebrates his first win of the season, on the other side of the garage it is the 2023 riders’ market that continues to hold court. Considering Jack Miller’s likely departure, despite recent reassurances from Ducati, the battle between Enea Bastianini and Jorge Martin for the second factory bike appears fiercer than ever. Father of the current Desmosdici, Gigi Dall’Igna, has spoken about the current situation, calming the waters but also transmitting an important message.

“We need to wait a few more races before making a final decision – confirms Dall’Igna while talking to Sky – but both definitely deserve factory treatment. But we have time to think of course. Might one or the other leave Ducati? It’s a possibility, but I think that continuity pays in racing, so a rider who’s doing well with a bike should think four or five times before changing.”

Pernat – Ducati direct line. And Arbolino…

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And the managers could play an important role in this duel, Enea Bastianini’s manager Carlo Pernat in particularly fine form right now. The experienced agent has highlighted Bastianini’s achievements in recent weeks and has a very good relationship with Dall’Igna and Ducati in general.

Speaking of Carlo and Ducati, another player who could be in the running for a move to the reigning class is Tony Arbolino, supported by Pernat, who celebrated his second Moto2 podium of the season at Jerez (third), following on from from his win at Austin.

Quizzed about this, the young Italian gives nothing away of course, but does not exclude the possibility. “We’ll see what opportunities we have”, explains Tony, “but for now I need to think about Moto2 and the current season. Reject the idea of MotoGP? Never”. Essentially, the market is yet to open, but it looks like we’re gearing up for a good one.

Translated by Heather Watson

MotoGP, Ducati options: Martin with Bagnaia, Bastianini to Pramac