Why one Ducati MotoGP star was swayed to leave the brand for 2027

Fabio Di Giannantonio has explained the driving factor behind his decision to leave a factory Ducati MotoGP contract with VR46 for KTM’s works team in 2027.

The Italian’s deal to join the factory KTM squad next year was announced earlier this week ahead of the German Grand Prix.

The Italian, who currently has a factory Ducati contract with VR46, was torn between both options during negotiations.

Ultimately signing for KTM alongside Alex Marquez, Fabio Di Giannantonio explained that being able to develop a bike around his riding style was what convinced him to make the jump.

“For sure, I’ve always been quite considerate of Ducati,” he told the official MotoGP website.

“But I will be the main rider with my team-mate.

“So, for developing the bike, I will be the leader of the development.

“So, the goal together will be to build a bike around my characteristics.

“So, I thought that would be the best option for me for my riding style, for my future.

“For sure, it will be a step ahead in my professional career. So, for sure it was the best option for me.”

VR46 released a video following Di Giannantonio’s announcement showing the emotional moment he told the team of his choice.

Valentino Rossi’s outfit offered Di Giannantonio a lifeline at the end of the 2023 MotoGP season when his future looked most uncertain, despite winning the grand prix in Qatar.

With VR46, Di Giannantonio earned a factory Ducati deal to receive works machinery and support from the brand.

“I’m really proud of this choice,” he added of joining KTM.

“I will be the face of a company, of a factory, leading a big group of people trying to achieve the main goal, which is winning championships.

“It will be a big goal, but also a big moment of pride.

“So, I’m really happy, really proud of my choice. It was not easy, especially personally, with this beautiful group of people I have right in my corner with the VR46 team.

“So, it has not been easy, but sometimes you need to decide your future, and I think it was the best option for my professional career.”