Ducati-Bagnaia: Michele Pirro Weighs In on Pecco

Ducati test rider Michele Pirro, in an interview with GPOne, spoke about Pecco Bagnaia and the issues that are holding him back again this season—his last with the Borgo Panigale-based manufacturer: “I find it hard to pass judgment on Bagnaia.”

“I think he’s going through a difficult time right now. Riders are human beings; they can make mistakes, they can face unusual situations, and I believe we should respect both the riders and their off days: we’re not machines, we’re people.”

“He’s in a unique situation right now, but you can’t erase what he’s done for Ducati and everything he’s given us. Everyone goes through tough times; the important thing is to try to finish on a high note. Then, at the end of the season, we’ll take stock.”

On Bulega’s arrival and his work on the 850, as well as the Pirelli tires—which, according to some, already place him among the favorites for next season: “I think these are all preemptive tactics by someone who wants to distract attention or put pressure on a young rider who needs to follow his own path and begin his MotoGP journey, since he’s never raced there before. I think there’s a bit too much talk right now. It’s still early, because neither the final tires nor the final bikes are ready yet. It’s September now; the World Championship starts in March, and a lot can change in seven months. We need to stay calm, and Nicolò will be evaluated halfway through next year, because everything will be new to him.”