Before arriving at Misano, and after an Austrian Grand Prix which demonstrated Fabio Quartararo's ability to resist his armada with his frail Yamaha, the Ducati staff distilled clear messages on how they saw the future of events. A point of view that can be summed up with this wish expressed by the boss on the ground Gigi Dall'Igna: not to bother Pecco Bagnaia in any way. Even adding that it would be a real shame if its pilot found himself embarrassed by one of his distinguished companions. This sounds a lot like a team order. But Luca Marini assures that his friend from the VR46 Academy will not need it…
There are seven Grands Prix remaining and Pecco Bagnaia a 44 points behind on Fabio Quartararo. If the latter, like in Austria, only drops five points until the final whistle, he will keep his crown. It is therefore necessary, for the Italian, not only to position himself as a potential winner in all races, but, in addition, for the Frenchman to be as far away as possible from his position under the checkered flag. This is where the other seven Ducatis come into play…
It seems logical and fair game when a brand invests so much in such high competition. But it is not so simple to apply in an environment that is not experienced in this type of strategy. You only have to remember the last Moto2 race at the Red Bull Ring to be convinced: Chantra Although he was told at the start of the last lap that he had to keep his second place, that did not prevent him from attacking his teammate, the leader of the race and in battle for the lead, in the penultimate corner. title Ai Ogura. The latter certainly returned the favor. But in the Asia box, we broke out in a cold sweat…
Luca Marini: “Pecco Bagnaia est le pilote le plus rapide de la planète à Misano"
And then being helped in this way takes away a little from individual merit... But on this point, Pecco Bagnaia can count on a lawyer of choice, Luca marini. The driver of a VR46 team which will present in MotoGP new colors in Misano on its Ducati commented before the start of hostilities: “ I think Pecco is the fastest driver on the planet on this track and he doesn't need team instructions to win the world championship » assures the half-brother of Valentino Rossi.
« He has always been very fast on this circuit and I am convinced that the other Ducatis will be too. Obviously Quartararo is a solid driver, leader of the World Championship, who will want to do everything to obtain a good result » he finishes. But in fact, the pilots Ducati drove to Misano in a competition organized as part of the WWD extension. Would they therefore have an advantage over their competitors this weekend? Marini respond : " having already raced like this at Misano does not mean having an advantage. This thing never existed, since riding a MotoGP is completely different than riding with a road bike like the Panigale V4 in terms of tires and brakes. Those who might have the most advantage are those who know this circuit well, having raced more than anyone else. This could then be an advantage for someone ».
