Ducati Corse have confirmed the departure of Francesco Bagnaia at the end of 2026, after eight seasons that have seen the combination rule the world - twice.
The partnership brought the riders' title back to Borgo Panigale after 15 years, in 2022 following Casey Stoner's title in 2007. Bagnaia has 31 victories - the most of any rider with Ducati - 62 podiums, and 28 pole positions with the factory.
Claudio Domenicali, CEO Ducati Motor Holding: "Pecco has written a fundamental part of Ducati's sporting history. He grew up with us, believed in the project and, together with the Team, made a decisive contribution to bringing the Desmosedici GP back to the top of MotoGP, winning back for Borgo Panigale the Riders' Title that had been missing for 15 years. Pecco is a Champion both on and off the track: in addition to his extraordinary talent, his respect for the Team's work, his availability towards the people who collaborate with him, and the professionalism with which he has always represented Ducati place him among the most important protagonists in our history. We are certain that he will continue to give his all until his last day in red. He is showing that he is experiencing this season with the same determination and spirit that made him a Champion loved by us and by Ducati fans all over the world."
Luigi Dall’Igna, General Manager of Ducati Corse: "Pecco is one of those riders with whom the spark ignited immediately. We sought him out and wanted him from a very young age to build a project around him. He's fast and, above all, clever. The goal was to bring the Desmosedici GP to its full potential. We achieved it. Thanks to the work of the entire Team and the technology, but above all thanks to Pecco's talent, which, 15 years later, has brought Ducati's red back to the top of the rankings. During all these seasons spent together, we've built a mature and solid relationship, founded on gratitude, trust, and respect. It's the same relationship that has allowed us to overcome difficult times, always united. Pecco will forever remain a Champion in the history of Borgo Panigale and in my personal history as well. With Ducati, he fulfilled his childhood dreams, and we achieved ours alongside him. In relationships, it's not always easy to recognize and understand when a cycle has ended and change is needed. The deep bond of mutual affection that unites us will not change and will be the key for managing all the races till the end of the season and for closing this journey on a high note."