Ducati has secured Spanish talent Pedro Acosta for the 2027 and 2028 MotoGP seasons, following the announcement of Francesco Bagnaia’s departure at the end of 2026. Acosta, a rising star at 22, will join forces with seven-time World Champion Marc Marquez, creating a formidable rider lineup for Ducati. Marquez has recently extended his contract with Ducati until 2028.
Pedro Acosta’s rapid rise in the MotoGP ranks includes winning the Moto3 and Moto2 world titles within three years of his championship debut. Notably, he was named Rookie of the Year in 2024 and achieved 13 podium finishes, securing fourth place overall with KTM in 2025. Currently, Acosta holds the sixth position in the championship standings, trailing leader Marco Bezzecchi by 48 points.
The signing of Acosta marks the conclusion of an impressive eight-year partnership between Ducati and Francesco Bagnaia. Bagnaia, Ducati’s most successful rider, has amassed 31 wins, 62 podiums, and 28 pole positions during his tenure with the team. His crowning achievement was clinching Ducati’s first riders’ championship in 15 years by winning the MotoGP title in 2022.
Francesco Bagnaia’s final race for Ducati will take place at the Valencia Grand Prix from November 27 to 29. Reflecting on his departure, Bagnaia expressed gratitude on Instagram, acknowledging the shared growth and accomplishments with the team. Despite challenges since Marquez joined Ducati in 2025, Bagnaia has remained a competitive force, finishing fifth in the standings last season.
Ducati Motor Holding CEO Claudio Domenicali commended Bagnaia for his contributions, highlighting not only his sporting achievements but also his character on and off the track. Known affectionately as “Pecco,” Bagnaia’s departure comes amidst Marquez’s success, with the latter securing a seventh world title last season. Bagnaia, however, remains optimistic, having recently won his first race of the season at the Czech Grand Prix sprint.
