Francesco Bagnaia on why hewants to race at the Suzuka 8 Hours… and Ducati speaks on bringing MotoGP riders in the future

 

Endurance racing, with its grueling demands and strategic depth, has always been a realm where manufacturers test their mettle beyond the frenetic pace of MotoGP.

This past weekend, Ducati made a notable appearance at the prestigious 8 Hours of Suzuka through a non-official team, Team Kagayama, signaling their potential aspirations in the World Endurance Championship (EWC).

Represented by Paolo Ciabatti, Ducati’s presence at Suzuka was more than

just a casual outing. It underscored their strategic interest in the event and hinted at broader ambitions for future participation.

Speaking to Motomatters.com, Ciabatti highlighted Ducati’s intentions: “Obviously, we are also here with Team Kagayama to gain experience for the future because it’s no secret that Ducati riders, also from MotoGP, they would like one day to do the Suzuka 8 Hours.”

The allure of Suzuka, known for its unique challenges and passionate fan base, has attracted attention from Ducati’s top riders. Francesco Bagnaia, the current leader in MotoGP standings, expressed his interest in participating in the iconic endurance race.

Ciabatti shared Bagnaia’s enthusiasm: “I was posting on my Instagram a picture of the riders with me, and Pecco was commenting ‘Prepare everything well because then I’ll come’.”

However, Ciabatti emphasized that Ducati’s immediate focus remains on optimizing their current MotoGP lineup before venturing into endurance racing with their star riders: “I think it’s best to do it with a current rider lineup, which is very good, and then see what we need to improve for the future.”

The Suzuka 8 Hours presents a unique challenge compared to the sprint format of MotoGP, requiring not only speed and skill but also stamina and flawless teamwork.

Ducati’s tentative steps with Team Kagayama reflect their commitment to understanding the nuances of endurance racing, potentially paving the way for a more official entry in the future.

For Ducati fans and motorsport enthusiasts alike, this venture into endurance racing adds an intriguing layer to the brand’s racing legacy.

As they continue to evaluate their options, Ducati’s potential participation in the Suzuka 8 Hours promises thrilling possibilities and a chance to witness MotoGP talents shine in a distinctly different arena.

As the dust settles from Suzuka, Ducati’s presence with Team Kagayama serves as a tantalizing glimpse into what the future may hold for one of motorcycling’s most iconic brands on the endurance racing circuit.

Whether they will eventually see their MotoGP stars tackling Suzuka’s challenges remains to be seen, but one thing is certain — Ducati’s passion for competition and innovation knows no bounds.