Ducati has dismissed rumors that their long-standing MotoGP team manager Davide Tardozzi might leave at the end of next season. Reports from Gazzetta It suggested a potential split between Ducati and Tardozzi due to an alleged disagreement with Ducati Corse’s general manager, Gigi Dall’Igna. The rumored conflict reportedly arose from Tardozzi’s remarks during the 2025 season about the team’s slow response to understanding Francesco Bagnaia’s technical needs. Potential successors mentioned include factory test rider Michele Pirro, Pramac team manager Gino Borsoy, and former Pramac and KTM manager Giacomo Guidotti.
Ahead of Ducati’s year-end Campioni in Festa event, the team downplayed these rumors by sharing a playful social media post showing a mock confrontation between Tardozzi and Dall’Igna, followed by a picture of them laughing, captioned: “Divorce? 💍Check back at 12pm for details ⏰.”
At the event, Tardozzi, 66, told GPone.com that the rumors were “ridiculous and baseless.” He emphasized the strong relationship he has with Ducati’s management, including Dall’Igna, Mauro Grassilli, and Claudio Domenicali, stating there are no “internal rumors” and their bond with Ducati remains solid.
Tardozzi has played a crucial role in Ducati’s management since retiring from riding in 1992, initially working in WorldSBK before moving to MotoGP. Aside from a brief stint in 2010 with BMW’s WorldSBK project, he has been a consistent figure at Ducati. Under his leadership, Ducati’s MotoGP team has achieved significant success, winning titles with Francesco Bagnaia in 2022 and 2023, and Marc Marquez in 2025. Additionally, Jorge Martin secured the 2024 championship racing on a Pramac Ducati.
Fan Take: This clarification from Ducati is reassuring for racing enthusiasts who value stability within top teams. Tardozzi’s continuing presence likely means Ducati will maintain its competitive edge, which is crucial for keeping the MotoGP championship thrilling and intensely contested.
