Franco Morbidelli Extends Contract with VR46 Ducati for 2026 MotoGP Season
Franco Morbidelli will continue his journey with the VR46 Ducati team for another season, having recently signed a contract extension that secures his place in the 2026 MotoGP lineup. This announcement marks an important milestone in Morbidelli’s career, as he has seen a significant revival in his performance since joining the squad owned by his mentor, the legendary Valentino Rossi.
A New Beginning at VR46
Morbidelli’s association with VR46 Ducati kicked off at the start of the current season, following Pramac’s transition away from Ducati’s direct involvement to become an independent satellite team. This move has proved to be a turning point for Morbidelli, who had been struggling with form prior to joining VR46. His results have notably improved, highlighted by his podium finishes in both Argentina and Qatar.
As the MotoGP season progresses, Morbidelli finds himself in a competitive position, currently sitting in sixth place in the championship standings. With eight races remaining, he holds a seven-point advantage over his teammate Fabio di Giannantonio, indicating a strong performance trajectory that bodes well for the remainder of the season.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite facing challenges, such as missing the German and Czech Grands Prix due to a broken left collarbone sustained in a crash during the sprint race at Sachsenring, Morbidelli made a commendable comeback. He returned to the track at the Austrian Grand Prix and further showcased his resilience by securing a third-place finish at the newly inaugurated Balaton Park Circuit just a fortnight ago.
In his own words, Morbidelli expressed deep gratitude and affection for the VR46 team. “My love for this team runs very deep," the 30-year-old rider stated. "I feel fantastic here and have built an incredible rapport with every member of the team. I am looking forward to racing with the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team next year. It’s wonderful to announce something so significant.”
Looking Ahead
Morbidelli’s enthusiasm for the future with VR46 is palpable as he reflects on the memorable experiences of the current season. “I hope to enjoy many more amazing days like the ones we’ve had this year because we truly deserve it. We have nearly a year and a half ahead of us to continue showcasing the great potential we possess together," he added.
He also took a moment to express his appreciation for the entire team, including Rossi, Uccio, and Pablo, as well as the partners and the VR46 Riders Academy, who have all played pivotal roles in his journey.
Earlier in the season, there were speculative reports linking Pedro Acosta with a potential move to VR46, amid financial uncertainties surrounding KTM. However, these rumors subsided after KTM secured its future following a takeover by Bajaj Auto, making Morbidelli’s contract extension a straightforward conclusion.
Team Dynamics and Future Goals
The announcement regarding Morbidelli’s contract extension means that VR46’s lineup for the 2026 season is now fully established. Di Giannantonio is already under contract through to the end of next season, having signed a two-year agreement that covers both the 2025 and 2026 seasons back in August of the previous year.
Currently, VR46 is positioned third in the team standings, trailing only the factory Ducati team and the Gresini Ducati squad. The team director, Alessio Salucci, expressed his satisfaction with Morbidelli’s renewal, stating, “We are pleased to confirm Franco for the next season as well. He integrated seamlessly with the team from the outset, forging an excellent personal and professional relationship that has yielded significant results.”
Salucci noted that Morbidelli has been a part of the VR46 Riders Academy since its inception, making his continued presence with the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team particularly meaningful. “Seeing him don the colors of our team feels like completing a circle,” he remarked.
With two podium finishes in main races and two additional podiums in sprint events this season, the team has demonstrated its competitive capabilities. Looking forward, the objective is to achieve even greater heights. “His experience has added immense value, and with the team’s expertise and the support from Ducati, we are excited to continue this journey together in 2026,” Salucci emphasized.
Morbidelli’s Journey as a Rider
Franco Morbidelli’s journey in the MotoGP circuit has been one of resilience and determination. After making his debut in the premier class, he quickly established himself as a formidable competitor. His tenure with various teams has shaped his skills and understanding of the sport, leading him to this crucial point in his career with VR46.
His time with the VR46 team has not only rejuvenated his racing career but has also highlighted the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in the high-stakes environment of MotoGP racing. The synergy between Morbidelli and his team, coupled with their shared commitment to achieving excellence, is a testament to the principles that guide the VR46 Racing Team.
Future Aspirations
As Morbidelli looks ahead to the upcoming season, his aspirations are clear. He aims to build on the momentum gained this year and continue pushing boundaries both individually and as part of the VR46 team. The prospect of competing at an even higher level excites him, and he is eager to capitalize on the experiences gained thus far.
With the backing of a strong team and the wealth of knowledge acquired from past challenges, Morbidelli is poised to tackle the next season with renewed vigor. The combination of his personal drive and the support from his team creates a promising outlook as they prepare for the 2026 MotoGP season.
In conclusion, Franco Morbidelli’s contract extension with VR46 Ducati not only signifies his commitment to the team but also reflects the collective ambition to achieve greater success in the MotoGP arena. As they move forward together, both Morbidelli and the VR46 team are set to make a significant impact in the seasons to come, showcasing their potential and passion for the sport.
