Bagnaia upgraded his bike with a ‘new weapon’ that Marquez doesn’t have, but still doesn’t dare to promise victory – Why?

Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia has taken a significant step forward ahead of his home Grand Prix at Mugello, unveiling key technical improvements that have enhanced his control and confidence aboard the Ducati Desmosedici GP25. While the reigning MotoGP World Champion remains grounded in his expectations, his comments and recent performance show signs of promise as the iconic Italian circuit looms large.

The latest advancement? A new set of 355 mm brake discs, which have finally given Bagnaia the precise feeling he’s been searching for during the opening rounds of the 2025 season. But as always, Pecco’s approach remains pragmatic, even as fans hope to see him dominate on home soil.

New Brake Discs Bring New Confidence

Throughout the early part of the 2025 MotoGP season, Bagnaia has struggled to find the same edge and stability that defined his previous championship runs. Despite podium finishes and strong race pace, he repeatedly expressed discomfort under braking—particularly at tight, technical corners where milliseconds are gained or lost.

Now, with the introduction of larger 355 mm brake discs, Bagnaia feels a meaningful shift.

🗣️ “I feel better now under braking, I can finally stop the bike where I want. It gives me a new level of control I didn’t have before,” he shared after Friday’s free practice sessions at Mugello.

These new carbon discs offer greater heat resistance and stopping power—crucial on a track like Mugello, where late braking into San Donato or Arrabbiata 1 can be the difference between pole and P6.

Not Ready for War Just Yet

While his performance metrics are trending in the right direction, Bagnaia isn’t quite ready to declare himself the favorite for victory this weekend.

His primary hesitation? The man who has stolen headlines all season: Marc Marquez.

🗣️ “For now, I don’t want to fight, because Marc has much more confidence in the bike,” Bagnaia admitted candidly.
🗣️ “It would be nice to say that I’m going to Mugello to win, but you have to keep your feet on the ground.”

The respect between the two rivals is evident, but so is the competitive fire. Marquez, riding a rejuvenated Gresini Ducati, has been nothing short of spectacular this season. His aggressive style, combined with newfound consistency, makes him the benchmark—especially at a technical track like Mugello.

The Importance of Mugello

For any Italian rider, Mugello is more than just another stop on the calendar—it’s a proving ground, a spiritual home, and a coliseum of expectation. For Bagnaia, the stakes are even higher. As Ducati’s poster boy and reigning world champion, the pressure to deliver at home is immense.

🗣️ “Mugello is the race I dream about winning every year. The crowd, the energy—it’s all electric. But that can also make it harder to focus,” Bagnaia told Sky Italia.

Last year, he thrilled fans with a victory here, and many hope he can repeat the feat. But he knows better than anyone how unforgiving the sport can be. The competition is fiercer than ever, and a single mistake can destroy a weekend.

Technical Evolution in MotoGP

Bagnaia’s brake upgrade highlights a broader theme this season: the rapid pace of technical evolution in MotoGP. With lap times getting faster and bikes becoming more sophisticated, small components like brake discs, ride height devices, and aero wings are now game-changers.

The switch to 355 mm discs isn’t merely about stopping power—it’s about thermal efficiency, feel at the lever, and adapting to Mugello’s demanding layout.

🗣️ “Every rider is searching for that small edge,” Ducati team boss Davide Tardozzi noted. “This season, braking stability has become a key differentiator. Pecco’s feedback led us here, and it seems we’ve taken a step.”

The Battle with Marquez Intensifies

Although Bagnaia remains cautious, there’s no denying that his rivalry with Marc Marquez is rapidly becoming the defining battle of the season. Marquez, reborn on a competitive machine, is riding with the flair of old. His elbows-out approach and tactical brilliance make him dangerous on any track—and especially in head-to-head scraps.

The two riders respect each other deeply, but neither wants to give an inch. Their last encounter at Le Mans saw a dramatic final-lap duel, and fans are salivating at the possibility of another showdown at Mugello.

🗣️ “Marc is aggressive, yes, but he’s also incredibly smart,” Bagnaia acknowledged.
🗣️ “He knows how to control the race and push at the right moment. That’s what makes him so tough.”

Team Dynamics and Ducati’s Internal War

What adds even more intrigue is the internal battle within Ducati. With multiple factory-supported riders—including Bagnaia, Marquez, Martín, and Bastianini—all capable of winning, the paddock is buzzing with rumors of tension behind the scenes.

Though Bagnaia is seen as the “chosen one” in red, Gresini’s Marquez is undeniably stealing the spotlight. The factory team insists there’s no favoritism, but results will speak louder than PR statements.

🗣️ **”Let them all fight,” Ducati sporting director Paolo Ciabatti said. “The best rider will rise. Pecco knows what he needs to do.”

A Home Crowd Ready to Roar

With tens of thousands of Tifosi preparing to flood the rolling hills of Tuscany, the stage is set for one of the most emotional race weekends of the year.

Red flares, screaming fans, and chants of “Pecco! Pecco!” will fill the air. The Mugello circuit isn’t just a racetrack—it’s a cathedral of speed. And Pecco Bagnaia, despite his cautious tone, will feel the weight of every fan’s expectation on his shoulders.

🗣️ “When I ride here, it’s different. The energy lifts you, but it can also crush you. That’s why I’m keeping my head cool,” Bagnaia said.

The Road Ahead: Title Defense Still in Play

Even if he doesn’t win at Mugello, the bigger picture for Bagnaia remains focused on the championship. With 20+ rounds in the season, consistency, smart strategy, and avoiding injury are key to a successful title defense.

Right now, Jorge Martín leads the standings, with Marquez and Bagnaia close behind. But as we’ve seen before, a few good races can flip the championship table upside down.

🗣️ “It’s a long season. I just need to stay calm and keep improving. The title is won with your brain, not just your throttle hand,” Bagnaia reflected.

Final Thoughts: Mugello Is Just the Beginning

While Pecco Bagnaia’s tone is grounded, his ambition is unmistakable. The new 355 mm brake discs might be the key that unlocks a return to form. But whether it results in a win at Mugello or just another step toward full confidence, what matters most is that the champion is evolving—and thinking long-term.

His rivalry with Marc Marquez, his battle with Martín, and his leadership within Ducati will shape the 2025 MotoGP season. And Mugello might just be the spark that ignites it all.

🗣️ “This year is a war. One race won’t define it. But if I can give the fans a reason to cheer here—it would mean everything.”

Let the engines roar. Let the hearts pound. Mugello is here, and Pecco Bagnaia is ready to fight… cautiously.