MotoGP, Ducati VR46 has finally made a decision: "There is a 99% chance he will ride with us in 2026"

The Ducati VR46 team has long been the center of rumors during this transfer window, particularly due to Pedro Acosta's desire to move elsewhere. In just a few years, the team has become one of the main attractions on the grid, with the legendary Valentino Rossi at its helm, aided in decision-making by his longtime partner Uccio Salucci. Salucci recently spoke about the future of his riders, and we now know who will fill the ranks of Ducati VR46 in 2026.

While Fabio Di Giannantonio had a contract that ran until the end of 2026, the Franco Morbidelli case was one of the main questions in the paddock. The child of the VR46 Academy, the first world champion to come from this performance school, was at one time in danger, due to his results and his behavior on the trackBut today, nothing can stop its extension. « We still have to talk with Franky, but I think we will finalize the contract in Hungary or Barcelona.We're not 100% sure yet, but there's a 99% chance we'll sign together." declared Salucci for speedweek.

 

 

Since the split between Pramac Racing and Ducati, the VR46 has inherited the current year's Desmosedici. Fabio Di Giannantonio is currently the only unofficial rider to benefit from a GP25. Will the same be true for Franco Morbidelli in 2026? « Ducati asked us if we wanted a second 2026 factory bike next year. I said no, we decided to continue like this year, that is, with a current factory bike and a 2025 machine. They could then decide to pass this factory bike on to someone else" he continued.

We can imagine that, given its results, Gresini Racing should make available at least one GP26 – which will, in any case, be very close to the GP25 – for Alex Marquez, one of the heroes of this season. As for “Diggia”, he will evolve with a GP26.

What do you think of the decision to extend Franco Morbidelli's contract? Tell us in the comments!