Ducati Boss Praises Bagnaia, Says He’s Outclassing Stoner

Ducati team manager Davide Tardozzi has praised reigning champion Francesco Bagnaia, saying he’s making history and outclassing Casey Stoner in this year’s MotoGP title fight.

Despite trailing Jorge Martin by 17 points with two rounds to go, Bagnaia has won half the races and is second in the championship.

Tardozzi noted that while mistakes have been made, having a rider who has won half the races is important.

Bagnaia is vying for a third championship in a row, which would eclipse Stoner’s two titles.

Stoner’s 2007 championship with Ducati was a singular achievement, as the team failed to win again for 15 years until Bagnaia came along in 2021.

Bagnaia has currently won nine out of 18 races, with two rounds remaining.

Tardozzi acknowledged that Martin could take the #1 plate to Aprilia next year, but insisted that Ducati will treat him fairly in the title race.

Ducati has always maintained that they will give Martin all the support he needs.

Martin’s crew chief said he has the same level of support as Bagnaia and the total support of Gigi Dall’Igna and his engineers.

Tardozzi praised Martin’s progress mentally, saying he’s made great strides in the offseason.

Martin is the leader of the world championship, and Tardozzi said it’s no coincidence that he’s settling for it.

Tardozzi praised Martin’s ability to understand what he needed to work on and put it into practice.

Overall, Tardozzi is impressed with both Bagnaia and Martin’s performances this season.