HOT OF THE PRESS : Francesco Bagnaia signs record contract extension with Ducati…
Francesco Bagnaia Signs Record Contract Extension with Ducati
In a monumental move that has sent shockwaves through the MotoGP paddock, Francesco Bagnaia has signed a record-breaking contract extension with Ducati, securing his place at the Italian manufacturer until the end of the 2027 season. The new deal is one of the most lucrative in MotoGP history, with sources confirming that the extension is worth a staggering €20 million per year, solidifying Bagnaia as the cornerstone of Ducati’s future in the premier class of motorcycle racing.
The announcement, made this morning in a joint press conference with Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali and team principal Davide Tardozzi, comes at a pivotal moment for the reigning two-time MotoGP World Champion. Bagnaia’s extension follows a stellar 2024 season, in which he clinched his second World Championship, further cementing his status as one of the sport’s top riders. The new deal ensures that Bagnaia will remain with Ducati through the peak of his career, continuing his partnership with the manufacturer that has propelled him to the top of the MotoGP world.
“I am extremely happy and proud to continue my journey with Ducati,” said Bagnaia, speaking from the Ducati headquarters in Bologna. “Signing this contract is a huge honor, and I’m incredibly grateful for the trust that Ducati has shown in me. We’ve built something special together, and I believe we can achieve even greater things in the future. The team, the bike, and the entire Ducati family feel like home to me.”
The contract extension is a clear indication of the confidence Ducati has in Bagnaia’s abilities, not just as a rider, but as a key figure in the company’s long-term vision for success in MotoGP. Bagnaia’s dominance on the Ducati Desmosedici GP has been a driving force behind the brand’s resurgence in the sport, and the new deal signals Ducati’s commitment to maintaining its competitive edge in the coming years.
Ducati’s Tardozzi expressed his excitement about securing Bagnaia for the foreseeable future. “Francesco is the leader of our project, and his incredible talent and work ethic have been a major factor in our success,” he said. “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with him, and we have full confidence that together we can continue to challenge for championships. This new contract is a reflection of the faith we have in Francesco and his potential to help us reach even greater heights.”
Bagnaia’s contract extension comes amid speculation about his future, with several top teams reportedly eyeing the Italian rider. However, Ducati has moved swiftly to secure its star, fending off rival interest from teams such as Yamaha and Honda. Bagnaia’s decision to stay with Ducati is seen as a strong statement of his belief in the team’s vision and their ability to provide him with the tools to continue competing for titles.
The record deal also highlights the growing commercial appeal of MotoGP, with manufacturers willing to invest heavily in top-tier talent to boost their global presence. Bagnaia’s success has not only brought him numerous race victories and world championships but has also made him one of the most marketable stars in the sport.
Looking ahead, the 2025 MotoGP season promises to be another thrilling chapter in Bagnaia’s career. With a strong bike, a supportive team, and a long-term commitment to Ducati, the Italian rider will undoubtedly be one of the key contenders for the World Championship in the seasons to come.
For now, though, Francesco Bagnaia can bask in the knowledge that his future with Ducati is secure, and he’s poised to continue his championship-winning ways for years to come.
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