Big transfer! Ducati confirms Bastianini as Bagna’s teammate in the MotoGP factory team

The Ducati factory team must have been smoking out of their heads in recent months. Jorge Martin or Enea Bastinini? Who should ride alongside the Italian manufacturer’s current biggest star, Francesco Bagnai, from next season’s MotoGP? In the end, the world championship’s leading constructor opted for Bastianini, winner of three races this season! Martin, on the other hand, is staying with Pramac.

The saga of the second seat at factory Ducati began back in June when Jack Miller announced his departure from the team and a move to KTM. Since then, discussions have abounded as to who will replace the Australian and become the teammate of Italo Bagna.

From the start, there was no doubt about the candidates for the Ducati job. Martin surprised everyone with his speed when he was able to compete with the experienced Johann Zarco last season. However, frequent injuries have not given him much time to show his true potential.

Bastianini, on the other hand, struggled that year. Two podium finishes at Misano, however, meant a rise in reputation in the MotoGP paddock, but it was still thought that Martin was the future choice for the factory Ducati team.

Both young riders put in impressive performances, but at the same time they both went through difficult periods. It’s no wonder then that Ducati gave them this headache and pondered their decision for almost three months.

But finally, before the San Marino Grand Prix, an official announcement came out of Bologna, Italy – Bastianini will race alongside the 25-year-old Bagna from next season.

“I’m thrilled to be given the opportunity to wear the factory Ducati colours from next year. It’s a dream come true. I would also like to thank the entire Gresini team for the great support I have received during this season,” Bastianini commented on his promotion on the MotoGP website.

Moments after Bastianini’s announcement in red, Ducati extended Martin’s contract at Pramac alongside Zarco, with whom he will share the garage for the third consecutive season.

Source: MotoGP