Francesco Bagnaia’s Challenges with the Ducati GP25 in the 2025 MotoGP Season

Francesco Bagnaia, the two-time MotoGP world champion, has expressed his struggles during the 2025 season, particularly with the Ducati GP25. He has taken a deep dive into his performance, stating he has explored every possible avenue to understand the root of his difficulties. Bagnaia has come to the realization that the challenges he faces stem from his struggle to align his riding style with the inherent characteristics of Ducati’s latest MotoGP machine.

The Current State of Bagnaia’s Performance

This season has been particularly tough for Bagnaia, with his results showing a noticeable decline since the season’s onset. Various theories have surfaced regarding the reasons behind his poor performance. Some observers speculate that the arrival of Marc Marquez, a former star with Honda, has disrupted Bagnaia’s confidence. Others, including Ducati team boss Davide Tardozzi, suggest that Bagnaia lacks the self-assurance needed to fully exploit the bike’s potential.

After participating in 15 races aboard the GP25, Bagnaia has emphasized that there is a significant disparity between his riding approach and the fundamental essence of the new Ducati bike. He candidly remarked, “Honestly, I looked at every single direction possible and the only reason for my difficulty is that this bike has a different DNA that I’m still not able to adapt to.” His reflection indicates a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in mastering a new motorcycle.

The Impact of Recent Races

Bagnaia recently arrived at the Misano circuit following a challenging outing at the Catalan Grand Prix. That weekend proved to be one of the most difficult of his career, culminating in a disappointing 21st place starting position, marking one of the lowest qualifying results he has ever experienced in MotoGP. The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is known for its low-grip surface, which poses distinct challenges for riders. However, as he heads into the San Marino Grand Prix, Bagnaia is looking forward to competing on a track characterized by its high-grip asphalt, which may offer him a better chance to showcase his skills.

Reflecting on his recent performances, Bagnaia stated, "It will be important for me to have more grip, because last weekend was quite tricky for me." He acknowledged the difficulties he faced in finding rear tire support, which significantly impacted his performance. “The last GP was a disaster and a nightmare for me,” he added, emphasizing his desire to have a more straightforward race weekend at his home circuit.

Aiming for Improvement

Despite the challenges he faces, Bagnaia remains committed to turning his season around. Although he has not delivered the results typically expected from a factory rider, he is determined to regain his competitive edge. "Right now, I don’t want to say that I’m happy, I don’t want to say that I’m angry," he explained, emphasizing the complexity of his emotions during this turbulent period. “I know that I’m here to win races. I’m here in the factory team because I can fight for wins.”

While Bagnaia acknowledges that he has yet to achieve the desired outcomes, he is resolute in his preparation for upcoming races. He has invested considerable effort in adapting his riding style to fit the Ducati GP25, yet he continues to grapple with the bike’s nuances. “The potential is not there,” he admitted, highlighting the ongoing struggle to achieve the level of performance he aspires to.

Setting Realistic Goals

As he gears up for the San Marino GP, Bagnaia’s mindset appears focused yet realistic. While he acknowledges that winning would be an incredible achievement, he is tempering his expectations, aiming instead for a top-five finish. “A win would be fantastic, but I am more realistic,” he stated, underscoring the importance of a solid performance amidst the ongoing challenges.

This approach reflects a strategic mindset, as Bagnaia understands that even small improvements can lead to significant changes in momentum. He is keen to build a foundation for better results moving forward, knowing that consistency is key in the highly competitive MotoGP landscape.

Conclusion

Francesco Bagnaia’s journey through the 2025 MotoGP season has been marked by trials and tribulations as he seeks to adapt to the Ducati GP25. His candid reflections on his struggles reveal the complexities faced by professional riders when encountering new machines. With his determination to improve and a realistic perspective on his goals, Bagnaia continues to navigate the challenges of the MotoGP world, hoping to find the winning formula that once brought him success.

As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Bagnaia’s journey unfolds and whether he can reclaim his position as a frontrunner in the championship.