Davide Tardozzi, Ducati’s Team Manager, has shared his thoughts on the performance of reigning MotoGP World Champion, Pecco Bagnaia, during the 2024 season. While acknowledging Bagnaia’s exceptional abilities and his status as a champion, Tardozzi was candid in his assessment, pointing out key areas where mistakes cost the Italian rider the championship title.

Reflecting on the season, Tardozzi noted the significant impact of Bagnaia’s mistakes throughout the year. “Unfortunately, he made some mistakes. Eight zeroes [DNFs], it’s the reason why he didn’t win the championship. Eight zeroes versus three for Martín,” he said, referencing the number of race retirements that plagued Bagnaia’s campaign compared to his closest rival, Jorge Martín, who only faced three DNFs (Did Not Finish). The eight races where Bagnaia failed to finish were a major factor in his inability to defend his title, despite showing immense potential and skill in the races he completed.

For a rider of Bagnaia’s caliber, consistency is often the key to securing the championship, and these race retirements proved costly in the highly competitive 2024 season. Tardozzi’s remark underscores the reality that even the smallest of mistakes in MotoGP can have a profound effect on the championship outcome, especially when the competition is as fierce as it was this year.

Despite these setbacks, Tardozzi was quick to emphasize his unwavering confidence in Bagnaia’s abilities and future prospects. “I think that he carried for two years the number one because he deserved it, because he’s a champion. And I’m sure that he will fight for the championship next year too,” Tardozzi added. His words reflect a deep belief in Bagnaia’s talent and resilience, qualities that earned him the prestigious number one plate in the first place.

Tardozzi’s confidence in Bagnaia is not unfounded. The Ducati rider has proven his potential over the last few years, securing his first MotoGP World Championship in 2022, and establishing himself as one of the sport’s top talents. His maturity and racecraft have been on display across multiple seasons, and while the 2024 championship slipped away due to mistakes and inconsistency, Tardozzi believes Bagnaia will return stronger than ever.

Looking ahead, Ducati will no doubt expect a fierce challenge from Bagnaia as he aims to reclaim the championship in 2025. The 2024 season, while a disappointment in terms of the championship result, has also served as a learning experience for both the rider and the team. With a better understanding of the areas that need improvement, Bagnaia is likely to come into the 2025 season with a renewed focus and determination.

Moreover, Ducati’s support for Bagnaia remains strong. The team has always been quick to back their riders, and Tardozzi’s words show that the team is fully behind Bagnaia’s efforts, understanding that the rider’s skill and potential are undeniable. For Bagnaia, the 2024 season may have been a missed opportunity, but it will certainly not be his last shot at a MotoGP title.

In conclusion, while the 2024 season may not have ended the way Pecco Bagnaia had hoped, his ability to bounce back from setbacks and his status as a champion remain intact. With Tardozzi’s confidence and support behind him, there is little doubt that Bagnaia will be a formidable contender for the MotoGP title in the seasons to come. The 2025 season will no doubt be a defining year for the Ducati rider as he looks to capitalize on the lessons learned from this year’s challenges.