Pecco Bagnaia has "many options" on the table for 2027

It seems a long time ago that Pecco Bagnaia's Ducati fairing bore the number 1, reserved for the reigning world champion. Yet, it was only a short while ago, until Jorge Martín snatched his crown at the finish of the Solidarity GP in Barcelona in November 2024. Fifteen months have passed, but it seems that this golden period for Bagnaia, who won the title in 2022 and 2023, was nothing more than a mirage that vanished as quickly as it appeared. Why? Because the Italian is coming off a 2025 season far below his usual standards. Never confident on the GP25, he was crushed by Marc Márquez and won only two Grands Prix: in Texas, because Márquez had crashed, and in Japan, when the Spaniard was content to manage his race to obtain a podium sufficient to guarantee him the title.

"Jorge Lorenzo said something true: you're remembered as you were during your last races. That's normal, that's logical."Bagnaia analyzes this with great clarity. However, for him, recent outings haven't left a lasting impression. His 2025 season was a long, arduous journey that he was eager to see end in Valencia. The two-time world champion isn't a great champion for nothing, though: he's re-energized as he approaches a crucial 2026 season. His new bike seems to suit him perfectly, his smile has returned, and he appears ready to reclaim his crown.

Being a true contender for the title this year will be necessary to allow him to secure his future, as his contract with Ducati expires at the end of the year. "It's obvious that a season like last year's can put you in a difficult situation," He notes. That's how it is. We live in a world where everything moves very fast, so we have to move fast. Just two years ago, imagining Ducati not renewing its golden goose would have seemed completely incongruous, given the unwavering confidence Borgo Panigale displayed in its rider. But with Márquez's return to the forefront and his recent struggles, Bagnaia finds himself almost on the hot seat.

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Bagnaia threatened by Acosta?

Rumors have been circulating in recent weeks about Pedro Acosta's likely move to the factory Ducati team in 2027, which would naturally push Bagnaia out the door. The number 63 isn't overly concerned, as his past achievements still allow him to enjoy a high standing in the paddock. "I'm continuing the discussions. I have many options and it's simply a matter of making a choice." he admits. "We're more or less in the same situation. I have some very good opportunities on the table and I'm going to decide quickly."

While Aprilia is looking for a teammate for Marco Bezzecchi, whose contract has been extended until 2028, Bagnaia could be a credible candidate to reunite with his compatriot and close friend from their VR46 Academy days. Otherwise, other manufacturers could offer alternative routes, even if fabio quartararo seems to be closing in on Honda and Jorge Martin on Yamaha. The problem is that they all currently have bikes that are less competitive than the Ducati, even though the arrival of the new regulations in 2027 will shake things up. Would the ideal solution be to find a satellite team to continue benefiting from the Ducati? Bagnaia is ruling out this option for now, which could have led him to VR46.

"I believe I am a top-level driver, so my ambitions should lead me there." the Italian cuts. "There are many opportunities, and what I've done well in recent years is clearly helping me today. Without pressure or haste, I will make the decision that seems right to me."

Pecco Bagnaia hopes to settle his future as soon as possible. "For the past three or four years, contracts have been signed much earlier, but that's the way it is and, honestly, I think it's great." he explains, echoing the comments of Alex Márquez, who would like to know his future before the start of the season. For Bagnaia, waiting a little longer might be the best option to allow him to show that he has regained his form and erase the bad image left by his 2025 season. As he so aptly puts it, paraphrasing Jorge Lorenzo, when it comes time to evaluate a rider, we always remember his last races.