– Ducati has dominated MotoGP in recent years and has won the manufacturers’ championship six times since 2020. But now there is strong headwind from Aprilia. One reason for the loss of dominance could also be the concession system.
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As the leading brand, Ducati is in Group A. Wildcards are prohibited, and fewer tires are available for private test rides than the competition. Aprilia, KTM, and Honda are in Group C.
Gigi Dall’Igna, General Manager of Ducati Corse, spoke last week at the former Teatro Smeraldo in Milan, which is now part of the Eataly concept.
The traditional stage, where artists like Bruce Springsteen and Charles Aznavour once performed, now also serves as a venue for discussions. There, Dall’Igna exchanged views on MotoGP with Eataly CEO Andrea Cipolloni.
The engineer also addressed the concession system, which Ducati believes disadvantages them. “That is the difference between show and sport,” Dall’Igna said according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“It is clear that concessions would be unimaginable if it were pure sport.” The Italian draws a comparison with Armand Duplantis, who has set several world records in pole vaulting.
“Duplantis also doesn’t compete with a shorter pole than the others just because he always wins. That is sport, but we live in a reality that is not only sport. It is a reality that is partly also show.”
“But it is also true that our sport is so expensive that certain compromises have to be accepted. The crucial thing is where you set the balance, the boundary between sport and show,” said Dall’Igna.
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“It is fine with me if you move somewhat towards show, but I want it to remain primarily a sport. The one who deserves it should win, simply because it is right.”
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“But I also agree that I naturally benefit if the world I live in shines a bit more. So yes, certain compromises have to be accepted.”
Dall’Igna: MotoGP does not have to copy Formula 1
This is the bridge to Liberty Media, the new owner of MotoGP. The American media company wants to better market and grow the motorcycle world championship in the coming years.
The question arises to what extent Liberty Media will change or further enhance the show character of MotoGP. However, Dall’Igna does not believe that this is necessarily required compared to Formula 1.
“From Liberty Media, I expect them to make the championship shine more than it has in recent years, building on the excellent work in Formula 1.”
“Also because our fundamental spectacle is superior to that of Formula 1,” Dall’Igna is convinced. “MotoGP needs significantly fewer artificial means to increase its entertainment value.”
“Of course, we have to be inspired by everyone, including Formula 1, but without losing ourselves: MotoGP must remain human. Something will have to be done to make the paddock nicer and more pleasant.”
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“But we have to remain MotoGP. Personally, I am constantly inspired by everything, including other sports and beyond. But I have never copied anyone.”
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