Another difficult day

Another difficult day on a weekend where our opponents proved stronger than ever: our congratulations go to them. The Ducati 1-2 in qualifying and the positive feedback from our riders certainly pointed towards a very different outcome. We were fast from the start with both riders, opening the weekend with a most encouraging outlook. Instead, Le Mans resulted in a situation completely overturned compared to our expectations. The first signs of this "cursed" weekend appeared during the Sprint Race with Marc’s frightening crash, and took definitive shape with Pecco’s slide in the main race - an episode that effectively ruled us out, ending a deeply disappointing Sunday with zero points. 

We must now calmly analyse the overall picture. Beyond the bad luck, the foundations remain solid, with the crash being the only true competitive drama. The keyword here is awareness: we undoubtedly need to improve, but we must also recognise the positive facets within the collective performance.

We couldn't have asked more of Pecco; he gave everything he had. He hadn’t started from pole since Malaysia but maintained a gruelling pace throughout the weekend. In the Sprint, he found his rhythm immediately, unlike Marc, who wasn't at 100%... and now we all know the reason! The disclosure of Marc’s upcoming shoulder surgery - which was not until now disclosed, and which was previously scheduled for after Barcelona - further highlights his overwhelming talent considering his performance so far, making his incredible new track record at Le Mans even more extraordinary. Simply outstanding.

Pecco had the pace of the eventual winner, even during the GP, raced as a key protagonist, showing great feeling with the bike and displaying the tenacity and class of his best days. He fought hard for second place but, at times, looked capable of even taking the lead. This only increases the regret of not seeing him concluding his run among the top finishers. 

A positive note, as always, for Diggia: once again, he was the best-placed Ducati rider. His fourth-place finish after a brilliant comeback is yet another proof of his maturity and consistent performance.

When everything seems to go against you, it’s easy to lose sight of the positive aspects. Instead, we must restart from them, trusting the work we are doing and following the convincing signals seen here in France. The real challenge begins now: rediscovering our usual enthusiasm even in adverse circumstances, putting everything we have into our recovery. 

On the one hand, we have a rediscovered Pecco and his smile; on the other, we have the regret of not having Marc with us at Montmelò, knowing we will be at a disadvantage. Be it as it may, we are already looking forward to seeing him back on track with us. We send our Champion the warmest wishes for a speedy and full recovery, with a big hug from the whole Team!

Forza Ducati!