Paolo Ciabatti, the former MotoGP sporting director now leading Ducati Corse Off-Road, has endorsed Marc Marquez and Pedro Acosta in a recent interview at EICMA. He linked three names, Casey Stoner, Marquez and Acosta, to illustrate the evolving priorities of the Borgo Panigale factory.

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Ducati is rewriting its future with a ruthless focus on raw talent over loyalty. While celebrating exceptional riders, his remarks signal a clear message to current star Francesco Bagnaia: Ducati is preparing to move forward without him.

Stoner's legacy at Ducati

Reflecting on Stoner's legacy, Ciabatti recalled the Australian's extraordinary pace during test sessions at Sepang, where “after just three laps, he was already the fastest.” Though Stoner's fiery personality made collaboration challenging, Ciabatti acknowledged his profound impact, not only as a 2007 world champion but also as a test rider who laid the groundwork for Ducati's subsequent successes.

“He wasn’t easy to work with, but his genius helped shape the victorious Ducati machines that followed,” Ciabatti emphasized.

Marquez and Acosta: the plan for 2027

The comparison with Marc Marquez is stark. Ducati's decision to sign Marquez shattered its long-held strategy of nurturing young, often Italian, talents within the factory team. Despite this upheaval and a difficult start to the season, Ciabatti stands by the move: “The results confirm it was the right choice.”

He praised Marquez's ability to challenge for the championship even after injury setbacks and at an age when many riders decline. “Ducati didn’t just recruit a decorated champion; they acquired a rider capable of turning a season on its head.”

Looking ahead to 2027, Ciabatti pointed to Pedro Acosta as the next cornerstone of Ducati's ambitions. “Even the choice of Acosta, who is younger, will likely create the most competitive team on the 2027 world championship grid,” he predicted.

The duo of Marquez and Acosta pairs established mastery with prodigious potential, although Ciabatti acknowledged the uncertainties posed by new 850cc bikes, Pirelli's fresh tyres, and the challenge of managing two strong personalities. “On paper, the combination is impressive. On track, they will have to prove they can work together.”

A cautious line on Bagnaia

Ciabatti's comments on Bagnaia were notably subdued. He lamented the Italian's “very difficult season from every angle” but refrained from assigning blame or providing detailed explanations, citing his current responsibilities and lack of complete information. This cautious stance leaves room for interpretation but contrasts sharply with the enthusiasm surrounding Marquez and Acosta's roles. Read also: Tardozzi: Bagnaia will not leave Ducati on a stretcher.

Ducati's strategy is clear and uncompromising: exceptional talent transcends sentiment. Stoner demonstrated how an extraordinary rider can tame the challenging Ducati machine; Marquez embodies the champion who can reshape a championship narrative; and Acosta is poised to become the next star.

Meanwhile, Bagnaia appears to be on the verge of being sidelined as Ducati bets decisively on phenomena rather than loyalty.

Ciabatti's reflections crystallize a pivotal moment for Ducati, where the pursuit of world titles demands bold choices, even if it means leaving past alliances behind.