MotoGP returns to the charge and Ducati finally presents itself with all its artillery. And just in time because the World Cup lands in Italy for its first home grand prix of the season. Along with that of Misano, the appointment in Mugello is undoubtedly the date marked in red for all the workers of Borgo Panigale. Especially for the brand’s drivers who, since the start of the course five races ago, have managed to set the bar high in the premier class. After three weeks of hiatus, Pecco Bagnaia returns to work as World Cup leader, just one point ahead of another Italian and teammate, Marco Bezzecchi, who is following closely behind him.
And fortunately, Ducati recovers its two official riders at full capacity. It’s not that he had to do without Bagnaia’s presence, but a fall at Le Mans revealed, days after the World Cup event, a “partial fracture of the talus bone” of his right ankle which, luckily, turned out to be a minor injury that did not prevent him from participating in this weekend’s event at any time. Even so, the Italian had to focus on his recovery and, after two days with the Panigale, his good feelings were confirmed to face the first triplet of the year. Three appointments that will give way to another five-week break for the usual summer holidays. “Racing in Mugello in front of our fans is always a great emotion and I can’t wait to get out on track! The ankle is fine and shouldn’t be a problem. We did a test with Enea a few weeks ago precisely in Mugello with the Panigale V4 S and I was also shooting in Misano without problems. It will be an important weekend for us and I am sure that the drive from our public will give us extra motivation to do well in our home Grand Prix”, points out the Italian, winner of the event in 2022.
With good feelings comes too Enea Bastianini, that points to his definitive return to MotoGP. The Italian suffered a fractured right scapula during the Portimao sprint race that has kept him away from the circuits so far. It was tested in the first practice sessions of the Spanish GP, in Jerez, but severe pain in the area led him to withdraw and continue with his recovery. Three months later, The beast she is ready to return to her top level: “I really like the Mugello circuit a lot. In the past I have achieved great results, so the goal is to be able to do it this year as well. Surely after so many weeks unemployed it will not be easy. I rode here a few weeks ago with the Panigale V4 S and I felt good, but obviously with the Desmosedici GP it will be something else. In any case, I am motivated. It is our home race and I aspire to do it well”.
Oliveira and Fernández also return
Ducati is not the only one that recovers all its pilots. The RNF Aprilia will also have its duo and confirms that both Miguel Oliveira and Raúl Fernández will travel to Mugello. The Portuguese, who already suffered an injury in Portimao, once again suffered a fall in the Spanish GP that prevented him from being present at Le Mans. His shoulder injury forced him to miss the French event and, although he is not 100% recovered, he will get back on his Aprilia this weekend at the Italian GP. On the other side, the Spaniard tried to compete in France after undergoing surgery on his arm after Jerez. It turned out to be a hasty decision and, with a lot of pain in the area, he had to retire. Both will have to receive the fit this Thursday at the circuit after passing the medical tests.
