MotoGP's 2027 season for Maverick Vinales to be Ducati's test rider claim was responded to by Team Manager Davide Tardozzi. The Italian manager stated that such rumors stem from a simple encounter at Motegi. He emphasized that the relationship between Vinales and himself is a personal friendship spanning many years.
Ducati's Test Rider Need
It is assessed that Ducati may need a new test rider in the future. Michele Pirro and Nicolo Bulega are currently in the roster; Bulega will start competing with the VR46 Ducati in the 2027 season. Pirro's age of 40 and his non-full-time participation indicate that Ducati will have to consider long-term options.
Maverick and I have a long-standing relationship. My son is also my grandson's childhood friend.
The Professional Dimension of Relationships
The Ducati Team Manager stated that the relationship between Vinales and himself goes beyond professional matters.
For me, my relationship with Maverick is beyond work.
Looking Ahead
He acknowledged that Ducati will evaluate its future test rider lineup but stated that there is no candidate yet determined.
The reality is that we are looking to the future. We know that Michele has reached a certain age and that we will likely need someone else in the future. This is a fact. However, it is not yet clear who that person will be. We do not have a confirmed, written, or even thought-out agreement.
Vinales's Motivation and Alternatives
Vinales expressed his desire to participate in a project that would motivate him in his discussion about his participation in the Indonesian Grand Prix, but he was unsure if the test rider role would provide the necessary motivation. The experience Vinales gained with Suzuki, Yamaha, and Aprilia, and KTM motorcycles could provide a significant advantage in technical development work. Furthermore, the new regulations coming into effect in 2027, which prohibit wildcard entries for test riders, could limit the opportunities for racing. Conversely, Vinales could be considered a suitable candidate as an experienced reserve rider in the event of an injury to one of the riders under the Ducati umbrella.
Origin of the Claims
Davide Tardozzi attributed the origin of the claims to an encounter at Motegi.
We have a friendship. They saw us walking together in the team weigh-in area at Motegi, and this rumor emerged.
Tardozzi took the news report with a humorous tone.
They saw us, and a journalist brought up this story. Perhaps it has given us an idea, I don't know.
In conclusion, the news that Vinales would join Ducati is regarded as a claim rejected by Davide Tardozzi.
Statements
Davide Tardozzi:
A journalist saw us together and brought up the story.
Figures
- Maverick Vinales finished in 22nd place with 12 points in the 2026 MotoGP season (Tech 3).
- Archive: Moto2 Denisim: Vinales's New Roadmap (October 1, 2026)
Read the full story at the original source.
Go to sourceCompiled by Şükrü Utku Poyraz
