The Fall of a Star: How Ducati Took Down Bagnaia?

Pecco Bagnaia, the two-time MotoGP world champion, is experiencing the most difficult period since joining the factory Ducati team. Two consecutive crashes at Le Mans and Silverstone have not only left the Italian rider pointless but have also triggered public criticism from Ducati’s top management, particularly Luigi Dall’Igna.

While Marc Marquez continues to maintain his form with consistent podium finishes, Bagnaia is clearly struggling. For the second week in a row, Ducati failed to win a race, a worrying sign for the Borgo Panigale squad.

Ducati’s Performance Dips: Two Races Without a Win, Not a Coincidence

The 2025 season is not even halfway through, but Ducati has shown signs of serious decline. After a dominant start in which Bagnaia and Marquez looked untouchable, the last two races in France and Great Britain have seen rivals take over.

At Le Mans, Johann Zarco stunned everyone by winning on a Honda. Then at Silverstone, it was Marco Bezzecchi putting Aprilia on the top step of the podium. Most worrying is that Bagnaia crashed out in both races, collecting zero points.

“There are no excuses—everyone must do their part and take responsibility,” said Luigi Dall’Igna.

Dall’Igna Publicly Criticizes Bagnaia: ‘You Can’t Just Blame Bad Luck’

In the post-race debrief after Silverstone, Ducati Corse General Manager Luigi Dall’Igna did not shy away from addressing Bagnaia’s poor form.

“It was a complicated and below-average Sunday. We’ll need to deeply analyze the data and the situation—this is not a cliché—especially starting from Pecco’s difficult moment.”

Dall’Igna made it crystal clear: there’s no room for excuses anymore. This is a clear warning to Bagnaia, who now trails Marc Marquez by 72 points in the championship standings.

Pecco Bagnaia: From Champion to Crisis Centerpiece

Just months ago, Bagnaia was still the top favorite to win a third consecutive MotoGP title. But a dramatic loss of form, coupled with Marquez’s resurgence, has turned the tide completely.

Two crashes, 50 lost points, and consistent complaints about the GP25’s lack of feeling have put the Italian in a psychological and competitive bind.

“I can’t work miracles. I know I’m fast, but if the feeling with the bike doesn’t improve, I can’t win,” Bagnaia confessed after Silverstone.

Marquez Hides the Bike’s Flaws; Bagnaia Cannot

While Bagnaia continues to criticize the Ducati GP25, Marc Marquez, using the same machine, has managed podium after podium. This contrast has led many to wonder: Is the problem really with the bike—or the rider?

“Marc is just better at hiding the issues than I am. But that doesn’t mean the bike is fine,” Bagnaia explained.

It’s not a simple answer. Marquez, having battled unruly Hondas for years, is used to pushing a difficult machine. Bagnaia, however, thrives when the bike is stable and smooth—something the 2025 Ducati has struggled to offer.

Internal Tension at Ducati: Two Leaders, One Throne

The arrival of Marquez at Ducati has created an intense internal power struggle, something the team has not faced in years. With Marquez outperforming Bagnaia, internal support may start to shift.

If Bagnaia doesn’t find his rhythm soon, he could lose his status as Ducati’s No. 1 rider—a scenario unthinkable just a few races ago.

“We have to act like a Team, with humility and accountability,” Dall’Igna emphasized.

Italian Media React: ‘Ducati Is Losing Patience With Bagnaia’

Even the usually protective Italian media have begun questioning Bagnaia’s place within Ducati. Leading sports dailies like La Gazzetta dello Sport and Corriere dello Sport have highlighted:

• Ducati may no longer have the patience to wait for Bagnaia to rebound

• If Marquez continues to dominate, Ducati might shift development strategy toward his riding style

• A “cold war” between the two stars could break out if the situation escalates

What’s Next for Bagnaia If His Form Doesn’t Improve?

While Bagnaia has a contract through the end of 2026, he isn’t immune to consequences. If results don’t improve, Ducati could reduce his influence in development, or worse, start scouting new talent.

Rumors suggest Pedro Acosta and Fabio Quartararo are already on Ducati’s radar. If Bagnaia fails to respond in the coming races, the pressure on him will increase exponentially.

Next Race: Redemption or Another Nightmare?

MotoGP now heads to Austria, traditionally a strong track for Ducati. This could be a crucial turning point for Bagnaia. A third consecutive DNF or poor performance would put his season—and perhaps his role within the team—at even greater risk.

The key question is: Can Bagnaia bounce back mentally and competitively? Or will Ducati put their full faith in Marquez, who is already proving to be a title-worthy investment?

Conclusion: Ducati Will Support Bagnaia—But Won’t Shield Him

Luigi Dall’Igna has sent a clear message: Ducati will support Bagnaia, but they will not tolerate prolonged underperformance without explanation. In a paddock as competitive as today’s MotoGP, no one is safe without results.

Pecco Bagnaia was once the savior who brought Ducati back to MotoGP glory. But if he doesn’t fight back now, he might find himself sidelined in favor of a new king—and his name might be Marc Marquez.