Gigi Dall’Igna, Ducati’s general manager, has explained why Ducati may be “weaker” in 2025, shedding light on some potential challenges that could affect the team’s dominance in MotoGP. While Ducati has enjoyed significant success in recent seasons, there are a few key factors that Dall’Igna has highlighted as possible reasons for concern moving forward.
One of the primary reasons Dall’Igna foresees Ducati becoming weaker in 2025 is the impending changes in MotoGP’s technical regulations. MotoGP regularly updates its rules to ensure a level playing field, and certain modifications can disproportionately affect certain manufacturers. Ducati, known for its technical innovations, such as aerodynamic advancements and cutting-edge engine development, could face restrictions that limit their current competitive advantages. If the new regulations restrict Ducati’s areas of strength, it could reduce their dominance on the grid.
Another issue Dall’Igna raised is the inevitable intensification of competition from other manufacturers, particularly Yamaha, Honda, and KTM. While Ducati currently leads the grid in terms of performance, rival manufacturers are constantly developing and evolving their bikes to close the gap. Teams like Yamaha and Honda have been investing heavily in technology and rider development to regain their position at the front. By 2025, these efforts could bear fruit, and Ducati may face a more level playing field, making it harder to maintain their dominance.
Dall’Igna also pointed out the difficulty of retaining top riders. Ducati’s current success has been, in large part, due to the exceptional performance of their riders like Pecco Bagnaia. However, rider contracts in MotoGP are always fluid, and as the competition intensifies, other manufacturers may attempt to lure Ducati’s top talent with lucrative offers. A loss of key riders or even the inability to continue to develop young talent could weaken the team’s overall competitiveness.
In addition to potential rider changes, the technological arms race in MotoGP is another factor that could challenge Ducati’s stronghold. The nature of MotoGP demands constant innovation, and other manufacturers may develop breakthroughs that neutralize Ducati’s current advantages, such as their aerodynamic innovations and seamless shift gearbox. If other teams catch up or surpass Ducati’s technical edge by 2025, the Italian manufacturer might struggle to stay ahead.
Furthermore, Dall’Igna acknowledged that maintaining the level of dominance Ducati has achieved can be mentally and physically taxing for the entire team. Sustaining such high performance over multiple seasons requires enormous effort, and maintaining motivation, avoiding burnout, and keeping the team fresh is a challenge that could become more difficult as time goes on.
Lastly, Dall’Igna referenced the unpredictability of MotoGP as a sport. With the rapid development of technology and evolving competition strategies, there are always unforeseen factors that could affect Ducati’s trajectory. Weather conditions, rider injuries, and other unpredictable variables can all play a role in shaking up the championship picture.
In conclusion, Gigi Dall’Igna has identified several factors that could lead to Ducati being “weaker” in 2025. These include potential technical regulation changes, increased competition from rival manufacturers, the challenge of retaining top riders, and the need to continuously innovate in a highly competitive and unpredictable environment. While Ducati is currently leading the pack, these challenges could make it difficult for them to maintain their dominance in the coming years.
