Ducati completely turned the tables on MotoGP by bringing aerodynamic elements and other trim correctors to the track that put its opponents on the ropes. They even became enemies on the green carpet for the reds, muzzled after a gang action organized within the manufacturers' association, the MSMA, about their device playing on the front. The very sole technical director Corrado Cecchinelli can only react more than anticipate in front of this bubbling of molten gray materials in the workshops of Borgo Panigale. But this time, he takes the lead, with this intention that will have to be taken into account. And who wants to mark the end of the “holeshot device” era…
This device, which appeared in 2018, first helped catapult MotoGP onto the starting grid, before evolving towards use for corner exits at Buriram in 2019. Each time, an identical impulse, that of Ducati which, last year, arrived with possible action also on the front. The development was too much for his adversaries who joined forces to ban this latest discovery. A common front which has borne fruit since we will no longer see this technique in 2023. The technical director Conrad Cecchinelli explains how we were able to get to this point, even though everything was regulatory: “ we still don't like, in general, changes that are not unanimously supported ».
« The sooner we can agree with the manufacturers on the 2027 MotoGP package, the better«
Like an admission of powerlessness in the face of pressure from the majority. But on crash.net, the same Cecchinelli assures that this file has not reached its conclusion: “ we intend to ask the manufacturers to also consider banning the rear, within an appropriate time frame » he said. But what do we mean by “appropriate time”? He explains : " we don't want to think about major changes or a big revolution before 2027 ».
He adds : " so we move in small steps until then, unless everyone agrees, as happened for example with “sustainable” fuels. But the sooner we can agree with manufacturers on the 2027 package, the better, because you can make bigger changes if manufacturers have enough time to prepare for them. For example, no one would agree to change the cylinder capacity from 2027 to 2026! ". This probably still leaves time to Ducati to take advantage of its finds, but it is also a clear message that it would be appreciated if the brand did not bring others, even if they are regulatory.
