Fabio Di Giannantonio stakes claim for Marquez-Level perks in Ducati renewal

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Fabio Di Giannantonio is pushing Ducati for full backing as he negotiates his MotoGP future. The Italian rider has become a hot commodity following a strong start to the season.

The VR46 rider has put together two straight pole positions and a pair of podiums, both in Brazil. Just three rounds into the season, he’s unexpectedly leading all Ducati riders in the championship standings.

Di Giannantonio currently sits fourth overall, five points clear of reigning champion Marc Marquez. It’s already shaping up to be his best season yet after never finishing higher than sixth in the top class before now.

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Fabio Di Giannantonio is pushing Ducati for full factory support

Sky Italia reports that Di Giannantonio would be open to remaining with VR46, provided he continues to receive full factory backing. With the 2027 rule changes, every rider will begin the season on equal machinery.

But only those with official factory ties will get upgrades immediately. At present, that group is limited to Marquez, his future teammate Pedro Acosta and Fermin Aldeguer.

Aldeguer is set to move from Gresini to VR46, and Diggia is looking for guarantees of equal status within the team. He’s under contract directly with Ducati and has ridden Desmosedici bikes throughout his time in the premier class.

Moto2 prospect Daniel Holgado will step up for Gresini, but as a rookie, he’s unlikely to be a priority early on. The other spot could go to Enea Bastianini, who was released by Ducati at the end of 2024.

KTM appear to have the inside track on Fabio Di Giannantonio