Ducati has confirmed that Francesco Bagnaia will leave at the end of 2026

News of Bagnaia’s departure broke ahead of the current campaign, but it is understood that each of the grid brands was withholding advertising pending a new commercial deal with the MotoGP Sports Entertainment team.

Who will regret this split more, Francesco Bagnaia or Ducati?

The announcement came on the weekend of the recent Czech Grand Prix, with Ducati’s confirmation of Bagnaia’s exit marking its first real move into the MotoGP rider market.

The 29-year-old’s departure from Borgo Panigale comes after a successful last 12 months with the struggling team.

Bagnaia ended Ducati’s title drought in the premier championship in 2022, adding another one the following year. He is the most successful rider in the history of the Bullets of Bologna, with 31 wins, 68 podiums and 38 poles in red.

In an announcement from the Borgo Pangale-based factory, team manager Luigi Daleigna wished the outgoing rider all the best, saying, “Peco is one of those riders whose spark has ignited immediately.

“We sought him out and wanted to build a project around him from a young age. He is fast and above all talented. The goal was to bring Desmosedichin GP to its full potential. We achieved it.”

“Thanks to the whole team and the technological work, but above all thanks to the talent of Peco, which after 15 years has brought the red of Ducati back to the top level.

“Throughout all these times we have spent together, we have developed a mature and strong relationship based on gratitude, trust and respect. It is the same relationship that has always stood us together through difficult times.”

“Peco will live on as a champion in Borgo Pangale history and in my personal history as well.”