Renowned Italian manager Carlo Pernat has minced no words in criticizing Ducati's decision to sign Marc Marquez. According to him, this acquisition, politically encouraged by Dorna, risks creating tensions within the team and harming the positive dynamic driven by the young drivers.
Carlo Pernathistoric MotoGP manager and influential figure in the paddock, shared his exclusive analysis on the recent changes at Ducati. Known for having accompanied renowned pilots such as Loris Capirossi or even Andrea Iannonehe today manages the careers of Tony Arbolino et
Enea Bastianini. According to him, the arrival of
Marc Marquez chez Ducatiafter his departure from Honda, is a risky bet for the Italian team.
Marc Marquezeight-time world champion, joined Ducati for the 2025 season, taking the place left vacant by Bastianini. However,
Pernat believes that this choice was costly to
Ducati in terms of emerging talent. “
By choosing Marquez, Dall'Igna lost all the young drivers he had trained : Martin, Bezzecchi and Bastianini. These riders grew up with Ducati and are now with competing teams like Aprilia or Yamaha », declares Pernat.
Although he recognizes the undeniable talent of
MarquezPernat emphasizes his age and his recurring injuries: “ he is 32 years old and is no longer the same as before. He will definitely cause problems in the team, I'm sure. It was a legitimate choice, but risky. »
Carlo Pernat: « Dorna wanted Marc Marquez in 'Red', there's no doubt about it »
Pernat also highlights the impact that the arrival of Marquez could have on the current leader of Ducati, Francesco Bagnaia. «
Bagnaia is very stronghe has already won two titles and played for a third until the last race. But having Marquez around won't be easy. Marquez works a lot on the psychological levelwhich could create a tense environment within the team. »
According to Carlo Pernat, Bagnaia will have to prove his superiority against an eight-time world champion, a task that could distract his attention from his main objective: defending his title.
One of the most critical points according to Pernat
is the departure of Pramac Racingformer strategic ally of Ducatinow under the aegis of Yamaha. « Pramac was the strong branch of Ducati for 20 years, a team that trained young people and excelled in terms of communication. Campinoti, their owner, is number 1 in communication in the paddock. The loss of Pramac is huge for Ducati, perhaps more than that of Martin. »
Pernat also notes that
Ducati will be reduced to six motorcycles instead of eight for next season, which could weaken their overall presence on the grid.
According to Pernatthe decision to bring
Marquez chez
Ducati could also have been influenced by Dornathe organizer of MotoGP. “ Dorna wanted Marquez in 'Red', there's no doubt about that. This attracts attention and boosts interest in the championship. »
In parallel, Pramac continues to evolve with new projects. They will focus in 2025 on Moto2 with
Tony Arbolino et Be Guevaraunder the direction of Alessandro Borsoi and Alex De Angelis.
Pernat sees this development as a solid strategy to cultivate new talents who may join MotoGP in the future.
Carlo Pernat concludes on motograndprix with a dose of caution: “
Dall'Igna has proven he can do what he wants, but recent choices could have long-term consequences. Ducati bet on a champion, but to the detriment of a structure and a generation of young riders. Only time will tell if this strategy will bear fruit. »
