When Ducati officially announced Pecco Bagnaia's departure for Aprilia at the end of the season, one question immediately arose: what remains for a rider who already knows he's moving on? Andrea Dovizioso thinks he has part of the answer. And it's not exactly flattering for his former employer… nor for Bagnaia himself.
Because while the two-time MotoGP world champion has regained some of his speed in recent weeks, the former driver Ducati openly questions his mental involvement in this latest campaign under the red colours of Borgo Panigale.
The exchange is particularly revealing. On his channel YouTube, Andrea Dovizioso discussed the situation of Pecco bagnaia with journalists Cosimo Curatola and Giovanni Zamagni when the former uttered a loaded phrase: Bagnaia is eager to leaveAn analysis that Dovizioso did not hesitate to approve immediately. Exactly, that's true. »
For the former MotoGP world runner-up, however, the problem is not what many imagine. Dovizioso does not call into question the professional commitment of his compatriot in any way.
He doesn't think that bagnaia He is either deliberately underperforming or refusing to fight. On the contrary, his analysis is much more subtle and probably more worrying. He is calm; he has a serene attitude.Then comes the heart of his argument: "It's not about holding back a little and not giving it your all. It's about explaining it." »
According to DoviziosoThe real problem is psychological. The Italian driver believes that exceptional performances are not achieved solely through talent or hard work. They also require absolute conviction. He is less motivated, so to achieve certain results, he needs to draw on his own resources to surpass himself.Before continuing: You really have to believe itThat's what these pilots are lacking. »
Pecco Bagnaia: The pilot syndrome already elsewhere?
A phrase uttered by a pilot who himself spent years battling against Marc Marquez sometimes giving the impression of transcending beyond the intrinsic capabilities of its machine.
For Dovizioso, bagnaia He hasn't lost his talent. He has simply lost some of the faith needed to find that extra spark that makes the difference between a very good result and a victory.
It must be said that the last few months have been anything but a smooth ride between bagnaia et Ducati.
His repeated criticisms of the GP26 were particularly poorly received in Borgo Panigale. Meanwhile, Marc Marquez has consistently demonstrated that the Italian machine remains capable of winning.
Divorce has gradually become the best solution for all parties. Ducati recovers Peter Acosta to build its future alongside Marc MarquezBagnaia, for his part, joined Aprilia with a long-term contract and the prospect of a new technical and human challenge.
The reflection of Dovizioso This ultimately raises a question in high-level sport: can one truly transcend oneself when one has already mentally turned the page? bagnaia He now gives the impression of a more serene pilot. Some see it as a sign of renewed maturity. Dovizioso Perhaps he sees it as a form of resignation.
The greatest champions often share an almost irrational characteristic: they are able to convince themselves that victory is possible even when all circumstances seem to indicate the contrary. They continue to draw on their physical and mental reserves because they still deeply believe in the project they are championing.
This is precisely what Dovizioso seems to have lost touch with his compatriot. The former pilot Ducati obviously does not condemn bagnaiaHis message is more like advice than criticism.
If he wants to end his story with Ducati In the most spectacular way, the two-time world champion will probably have to rediscover that little spark that allowed him to win his two world titles.
Because the talent is still there. The speed too. The only question that remains is ultimately the most important one: Francis Bagnaia Does he still believe enough in his adventure at Ducati To find that little extra something essential to the greatest champions? Andrea DoviziosoHe, however, seems to doubt it.
