Francesco Bagnaia’s Resurgence: The Impact of Ducati’s Changes at the Japanese Grand Prix

Francesco Bagnaia’s impressive performance during the sprint of the Japanese Grand Prix can be attributed, at least in part, to the modifications made by Ducati to his MotoGP bike during the Misano test. This season, Bagnaia had struggled with the GP25 from the outset, and his performance dipped even further following the summer break, leading to speculation about his future with the Ducati team.

As the season progressed, both Bagnaia and the Ducati engineers experimented with various adjustments to the bike, yet the elusive solution to his performance issues seemed out of reach. Nevertheless, the timing of the Misano test in early October proved to be pivotal for Bagnaia, who finally found harmony with a motorcycle he believed was holding back his full potential.

During the Misano test, Ducati introduced a hybrid version of the bike for Bagnaia, integrating elements from the previous year’s model, such as the swingarm, fork, and various aerodynamic features, into the GP25. Although Ducati’s team manager, Davide Tardozzi, refrained from disclosing whether these changes were solely responsible for the breakthrough or if other factors, such as the mandatory implementation of 355mm brakes at Motegi, played a role, he acknowledged the significance of the test for Bagnaia.

"I think Monday at Misano was important for Pecco. Gigi [Dall’Igna] and the engineers found the ideal mix to give him the feeling he needed. We’ve made a mix," Tardozzi stated.

Adjustments and Performance Improvements

In adherence to MotoGP regulations, a complete reversion to the GP24 was not feasible, but Ducati retained the freedom to customize their components as required. Bagnaia elaborated on the modifications made to his bike between the race weekends at Misano and Motegi, stating, "We haven’t returned to the GP24, but we have changed parts that in other situations haven’t worked, and here and at Misano they have. Perhaps [the changes were made] out of desperation, but they have started to work better again, and in the end, I felt better. I was able to ride more like last year."

While Bagnaia did not specify that the parts were directly from the 2024 model, he did mention, “They are parts that Marc [Marquez] also has.” Even though he remained uncertain about the reasons behind the newfound effectiveness of the bike modifications, he reflected on how his season might have changed had he discovered this breakthrough earlier in the year.

The Misano test was the third and final pre-season test of 2025, which meant that at least two valuable opportunities had been missed during the season. "That’s something I can’t explain," he remarked when asked why the parts were working now. "But after the result, I’m not asking myself so many questions; I’m just happy."

Bagnaia recognized that everyone was grappling with similar challenges and working collaboratively. "The result has come here, but it could surely have come sooner. Perhaps in the Jerez test, if this solution had been found earlier, I could have had a totally different season, but in the end, what happened happened, and we fixed it with six races to go."

Divergent Perspectives on the Performance Slump

Despite the positive changes, a significant disconnect remained between Bagnaia and Ducati regarding the root causes of his struggles throughout the season. Ducati insisted that the bike itself was not at fault, suggesting that Bagnaia needed to regain confidence to return to his winning form. Conversely, Bagnaia believed he was pushing his limits and that tangible changes needed to be made to the bike for him to rediscover his competitive edge.

While the technical adjustments have been significant, it is unclear whether the psychological effect of reintroducing components that contributed to his success last season has also played a role in his resurgence. The 28-year-old rider was fortunate to draw on the insights of former MotoGP superstar Casey Stoner during the Misano test, benefiting from his experience and perspective.

Regardless of the causes, Bagnaia feels he is genuinely back to his best, a reflection of his confidence and skill. "I’m back. Doing my best races: starting well and pushing hard," he expressed. "Thanks to the team, they’ve done an impeccable job, finally giving me a flawless set-up on the bike. This feeling is super sweet."

When asked if he felt a sense of liberation on the bike, he replied, "Yes, I really do. Throughout the weekend, I felt good with the bike from the Misano test. The other one was still like the ones from the other grand prix races."

Race Weekend Dynamics

Thanks to his team’s hard work, Bagnaia was able to ride two identical bikes that were set up according to the specifications established during testing. "Tonight, my team fixed everything and set up two identical bikes [with the test specifications]. This morning, knowing I had both bikes, it was easier to push. The pole position was perfect, and so was the race. Starting well, pushing, keeping my pace, I couldn’t ask for more. I’ve always believed I could achieve these results; I’ve always said so when I had the chance to be there. And today, we proved it."

Bagnaia’s ability to regain his footing in the championship race has rejuvenated his confidence and showcased the importance of collaboration between rider and team. The adjustments made to his bike, alongside his mental resilience, have set the stage for a remarkable comeback as the 2025 MotoGP season progresses.

Conclusion

Bagnaia’s journey illustrates the intricate relationship between a rider and their machine in MotoGP. The dynamic between technical adjustments and the psychological aspects of racing is pivotal in determining success on the track. As Bagnaia continues to leverage the changes made to his Ducati, the upcoming races will reveal whether this resurgence is just the beginning of a strong finish to the season or if further challenges lie ahead. The interplay of engineering, strategy, and rider confidence will undoubtedly shape the narrative of the remaining races, as Bagnaia aims to reclaim his position among the sport’s elite.