Ducati: Tardozzi is disconsolate, admission on Marc Marquez

Ducati team manager Davide Tardozzi spoke after the Borgo Panigale team’s difficult start to the season. The Reds in Austin did not get on the podium and the Aprilia scored another one-two, confirming that it is the reference bike in this first part of the World Championship. Also worrying is the condition of Marc Marquez, who is still not 100% physically after the accident that forced him to stop at the end of 2025.

“In my opinion, Marc Marquez is still not 100% okay – said Tardozzi to Sky -. In the moment he passed Raul Fernandez and arrived on Pecco and Bastianini, in 5-6 laps he gained 8 tenths on Bezzecchi. When he is well, he is able to stay in front. But if you ask me for a percentage-it’s like rolling the dice. I can’t say but he’s definitely not well. Unfortunately, what happened in Indonesia still has consequences.”

Di Giannantonio and Bagnaia also had difficulties with their bikes, and were unable to compete for the podium: “They couldn’t manage the rear tire, the consumption was too high and at a certain point they couldn’t ride anymore,” Tardozzi explained.

The Ducati’s difficulties were counterbalanced by Aprilia’s impressive growth: “Aprilia has grown considerably, they had an impressive leap in quality of 7-8 tenths, while we improved 1-2 tenths from last year. They have strong riders, like ours, but we have to hurry. Right now we have to chase a bit to make up the gap that has been created.”

There may be updates coming soon from Borgo Panigale: “This is not the true value of Ducati, we are not these. There have been many unfortunate episodes, but no alibi. We need to better understand what the riders need and help them. However, there are still 19 races left and nothing is lost.”