Francesco Bagnaia is MotoGP World Champion

A Ducati rider is finally number one once again

Four years after his Moto2 title win in 2018 Francesco Bagnaia wrapped up his first MotoGP title at the final round of the sason. Bagnaia is also the first Italian World Champion since his mentor, Valentino Rossi, claimed his last title in 2009. With his ninth place finish today in Valencia Bagnaia has wrapped up this years title. The race today for Bagnaia was tough after he lost a wing in a battle with Fabio Quartararo.

This season has been a year full of ups and downs for Bagnaia. The Italian has stood on the podium ten times, with seven race wins. With five DNF’s Bagnaia really made it hard on himself to win this years title. However, Bagnaia’s true talent shone through as he pulled back a 91 point deficit after the German Grand Prix.

Bagnaia’s title is also significant for Ducati. The last and only time a Ducati rider won the MotoGP World Championship was in 2007. Ducati have had great riders and great machines, but finally Bagnaia has secured the second Riders Championship for Ducati.

Ducati have placed their trust in Bagnaia for the future as he signed on for two more years early this season. With his second title and his first MotoGP title to his name confidence will be high for Bagnaia. All eyes will be on Ducati for 2023 now as they have a new teammate for Bagnaia next year.

Images from MotoGP.com