The 2025 MotoGP season was a complete nightmare for Pecco Bagnaia. Despite the strong support of Ducati and the GP25, the Italian left many perplexed. His results were inconsistent, he never found the right balance, and above all, the bike simply didn't seem suited to him. This certainly eroded his credibility.
After his victory in Motegi, bagnaia did not finish the next three races of the season. Ducati had, however, made major changes to its package during the Japan : components of the GP24 were added, giving him the victory again.
But the effect didn't last: a fall in Mandalika, abandonment to Phillip Island, then a flat tire at Sepang which cost him a podium finish.
According to the analysis, the GP25 suffers from a poor chassis-engine compromise for its driving style. bagnaia He himself acknowledged it: he lacks the ability to adapt when something he doesn't like is imposed on him.
A weakened status, a risk of dropping in the rankings
The impact can also be measured in the sporting arena: Pecco bagnaia is now threatened with finishing fifth in the overall championship, after losing third place to Marco Bezzecchi at Sepang. As for Peter AcostaHe is 26 points behind. This situation means that bagnaia is no longer definitely considered a serious contender for the title in 2026.
Pecco Bagnaia: a weakened status, a risk of dropping in the standings
Next year could be the year of the restart for bagnaiaHowever, several factors complicate matters:
La GP26 will be designed more for Marc Marquezwhich could widen the gap between the factory drivers.
The strained relations between bagnaia and the management Ducati can act as a mental and strategic brake.
Several manufacturers are gaining ground: the drivers as Joan Peace, Marco Bezzecchi et Peter Acosta are cited as growing threats.
The director of Gresini, Carlo Merlinipublicly mentions the absence of bagnaia among the 2026 candidates:
« Why not ask Alex Marquez Aiming for the title next year? The competition is fierce. Marquez will be there, Aprilia will be back, other manufacturers have approached Ducati, you only have to look. Mir et Acosta... »
bagnaia He still has the talent. But this season MotoGP 2025 posed two major questions for him: can he adapt to a machine that doesn't naturally suit him? Can he become a challenger at the top again when his internal team no longer seems 100% behind him?
2026 will undoubtedly be the season of truth for him. A podium finish, a few victories, and his confidence will return. Otherwise, for now, his place as a benchmark at Ducati wavers.
