For Carlo Pernat, an emblematic figure in the paddock, the Italian Grand Prix marked a historic turning point. In his analysis for GPOne, the former manager doesn't mince words: we witnessed a changing of the guard where Aprilia established itself as the new absolute benchmark, leaving Ducati in an unusual position as a pursuer..
Even though he no longer frequents the MotoGP paddock with the same regularity as before, Charles Pernat remains one of the most listened-to observers of the championship. And after the Italian Grand Prix disputed at MugelloThe experienced Italian manager did not mince his words.
Because this Tuscan weekend left a strong impression: that of a shift in the hierarchy that seemed unthinkable just a few months ago. On Ducati's hallowed turf, Aprilia struck a big blow.
First, thanks to the victory of Raul fernandez when Sprint, and then especially with the masterful success of Marco Bezzecchi Grand PrixA symbolic double victory that made a lasting impression, even in the offices of Borgo Panigale.
Asked by GP One, Feathered immediately emphasized the significance of this achievement. I want to say that the Mugello race was a real triumph for Apriliawho achieved an incredible feat by winning on Ducati's home turf. This is obviously excellent news for Aprilia.. »
For the Italian, this is no longer just a flash in the pan. Aprilia has now become the benchmark for MotoGP. I think Aprilia is a benchmark todayBecoming a benchmark after what Ducati has achieved in the past is incredibly difficult.They succeeded. Today, Only Aprilia can lose the championshipWe are certainly a third of the way there, but two drivers like Bezzecchi and Martín are currently superior to all the others. »
A strong statement that perfectly reflects the growing feeling in the paddock: for the first time in several seasons, Ducati no longer appears as the untouchable master of the championship. Feathered was also particularly enthusiastic about Marco Bezzecchi, whose explosion at the highest level continues to surprise.
« An incredible Bezzecchi. I'm delighted for him. He was not one of the "phenomena", because the "phenomena", as always, as you know, are the three Marquez, Acosta and Quartararo. Perhaps in 2025, Marc was also lucky to run without Martín on the track; he ran alone »
But it's when he talks about Marc Marquez that the tone is becoming truly worrying. Because for Pernat, the real loser at Mugello is not Ducati. This is Marquez himself. And the reason is not in his results. It is in his physical condition.
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Carlo Pernat: “ Marc Marquez is trying to get back in shape to return and dominate everyone next season »
« Ducati has suffered a major blow. The most affected is Marquez, but not because of himself: because of the current situation. With his shoulder injury, he can no longer be the Marquez he once was, and he said so himself.And that's what's most worrying. He said, "I don't know if I'll ever be the Márquez I was again." Those are his own words. Harsh words, difficult words. but sincere words, as always »
These remarks lead Feathered to a particularly radical conclusion regarding the 2026 season. It is clear that the world championship title is practically lost.He's taking risks. In my opinion, He is preparing for next seasonHe is trying to get back in shape to return and dominate everyone next season. »
This analysis is bound to spark debate. Because while there are still many Grand Prix races to go, the driver has already lost ground. DucatiCombined with the questions surrounding his physical condition, this is indeed starting to weigh heavily in the equation.
Finally Feathered insisted on defending Ducati fface to the criticisms that accompany today's rise to power ofApriliaAccording to him, the current successes of the Noale manufacturer are also a direct consequence of the sporting policy pursued in recent years.
« In any case, Ducati deserves congratulations.We mustn't forget the concessions made to others, to those who benefited from preferential treatment. Everyone's talking about Aprilia, and you almost get the impression that it's Ducati that got itself into this situation, but that's not the case, because Dorna is also involved. They bear both responsibility and blame for having rebalanced the championship with these concessions. »
This statement reignites a debate that is as old as it is sensitive: Aprilia Did they become the best MotoGP team solely through their own hard work… or did the concessions system accelerate a revolution that Ducati Didn't see it coming?
The diagnosis of Charles Pernat It's clear: MotoGP has changed its face. WhileAprilia reaps the rewards of an aggressive strategy and advantageous settlement, the former masters of the game (Ducati et Marquez) find themselves in a survival position. While the 2026 season is still long, the prevailing feeling among observers is that the tide is not going to turn anytime soon.
