It is now an established fact – not only by Ducati, but also the entire paddock – that Pecco Bagnaia's problem is certainly not his speed, but above all his mentality. His excitement in the race, his 2022 course marked by three victories but also four falls, show that the Italian must work on himself. He is aware of this and says he is working on it, even if a recent news story of a material road accident with an alcohol level found to exceed the tolerated standard will undoubtedly not make his task easier. The 2021 world vice-champion explains what he has put in place to progress, while citing his example which is none other than the one he must overcome to bring back a crown that his employer has been hoping for since 2007...
Pecco Bagnaia had declared that he would use this summer break to strengthen himself mentally. An exercise that he must undoubtedly accomplish by assuming this appearance in the news section in Ibiza. He apologized, spoke about it with Ducati via Gigi Dall'Igna, and must now move forward in this summer torpor while thinking about the resumption, at the beginning of August, at Silverstone, where he will play his last cards to stay in the title race, mathematically still playable.
As a rider, his speed is recognized, but to aim for the top in MotoGP, you have to be complete, physically and mentally. This last point raises questions for the official Ducati who does not deny having a certain weakness in this area. On this situation, he says: “ the attitude always remains the same to become the best version of myself. And always learning more. Not only this year, but also for the future. Because after this season I still have a two-year contract with Ducati and we have the same goal ».
Pecco Bagnaia: “ I also think that Fabio Quartararo is a more complete driver than me«
This self-discovery goes through surprising stages, starting with knowingly recognizing the superiority of one's adversary in the circumstances: " I believe sincerity is important » says academician VR46 on speedweek. " And I also think that Fabio is a more complete driver than me. I work to improve myself. But it's clear that I'm still missing something to be a 100% title contender. Fabio is currently the only driver as consistent, as fast and as strong. If I want to win the title, I have to follow this path ».
We will recall that fabio quartararo reached a milestone when he validated the procedure of being followed by a sports psychologist. A support that Pecco Bagnaia refuses for the moment… “ I don't think I need this help » he assures. However, he immediately clarifies: “ but if there are any problems in the future that I can't solve myself, I won't rule it out. You must always be open to everything. Above all, you have to do it yourself. You have to look in the mirror and understand the lack ».
The Italian finishes: “ I think I still have to learn this, maybe I need to talk about it. My coach knows well how to deal with such things, as do my girlfriend and my family. I think 70% of this process should come from me, the rest from my girlfriend, my family and my team ". But for now, it remains a real subject to be addressed for Pecco Bagnaia.
