Gresini risk losing Ducati bikes amid costly MotoGP talks
Photo by Mirco Lazzari gp/Getty Images Ducati and Gresini are reportedly “far” apart in negotiations over extending their MotoGP partnership, with satellite deals up for renewal ahead of next year’s regulation changes. Gresini have been running Ducati bikes since 2022 after ending their partnership with Aprilia. Last year, they matched their best-ever finish by coming second in the championship, behind the factory team.
Alex Marquez and Fermin Aldeguer combined for seven wins and 32 podiums, including sprints. But KTM have signed Marquez for 2027 and it emerged on Friday that Aldeguer is moving to VR46, who are close to sealing an extension with Ducati. Gresini face financial hurdles in Ducati renewal talks Photo by Klaus Pressberger/SEPA.
Media /Getty Images According to Motorsport Espana, Gresini currently don’t have riders or bikes lined up for next year. They’d like to stay with Ducati but might need to look elsewhere. Ducati’s asking price is well beyond what Gresini can afford at the moment.
The cost has gone up because all customer teams will receive factory-spec machinery under the new regulations. Gresini are waiting for MotoGP’s new commercial agreement to be completed so they can finalise their budget for next season. If a deal is reached, Gresini could bring back Fabio Di Giannantonio, who is still linked to Ducati.
That decision also depends on whether VR46 choose to hold onto him. Ducati are interested in Moto2 standout David Alonso and see Gresini as a potential landing spot, similar to how Aldeguer started out. However, discussions with Alonso have hit a snag over salary expectations.