This 2023 MotoGP season is crucial for the riders, especially for those whose future in their teams remains uncertain. In particular, the duel between Franco Morbidelli and Fabio Di Giannantonio within the VR46 team could well determine who will secure their place for the next season. While one struggles to regain their rhythm, the other is establishing themselves as a serious contender for leadership.
A chaotic start to the season for Morbidelli
Franco Morbidelli has had a difficult start to the season, failing to shine in the first three Grands Prix. The break caused by the war in Iran has only heightened the uncertainty surrounding his future at VR46. The races in Thailand, Brazil, and Texas highlighted lacklustre performances, failing to reassure his management.
At the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), Morbidelli recorded the second-to-last time in qualifying before finishing far from the points. With his 2025 Ducati, he was expected to do better, especially against a competition already tested from the previous year. The pressure on him seems to have had the opposite effect, pushing him further into doubt.
Di Giannantonio: the meteoric rise
In contrast, Fabio Di Giannantonio appears to be riding a positive wave. With two pole positions already to his name and convincing performances, he is asserting himself as the unexpected leader of the Ducati clan. This shift in dynamics between the two riders is striking, especially considering the hierarchy established during their first season together in 2025.
While Morbidelli had a strong season on the GP24, Di Giannantonio only found his footing at the end of the championship. This year, however, the trend has reversed. On the GP25, Di Giannantonio demonstrates an ability to make the most of his machine and compete with heavyweights like Marc Márquez.
Fabio Di Giannantonio is now the highest-ranked Ducati rider in the championship.
Pressure and stakes at VR46
The VR46 team has clearly indicated that they are considering integrating a young rider for 2027. With the recruitment of Fermín Aldeguer, the stakes are high for Morbidelli and Di Giannantonio, who must fight to keep their places. Currently, only one of them may remain alongside the newcomer.
The contrast is striking: Di Giannantonio exceeds expectations while Morbidelli disappoints even his most ardent supporters. Each race thus becomes a decisive test to determine who truly deserves to carry the VR46 colours in the future.
The start of the season: performances and promises
Di Giannantonio has managed to capitalise on his debut by achieving remarkable results. He has held his own against the best, including Márquez, and his meteoric rise has not gone unnoticed. In a year, he has gone from a promising rider to a feared competitor capable of exploiting the full potential of his bike.
Morbidelli, on the other hand, has had a laborious start to the season. His lack of grip with the GP24 has played tricks on him, particularly during qualifying where he fails to stand out. Fresh tyres seem to be a real headache for him; it is only once they are worn that he finds a semblance of rhythm.
Franco Morbidelli is now fighting for his future in MotoGP.
Austin: revealing a malaise
Austin was a true revelation for Morbidelli. Despite some improvements noted throughout the weekend, his final 14th place is far from satisfactory. In comparison to Di Giannantonio’s fourth position, the situation becomes concerning. Even more worrying: he was losing almost a second per lap to his teammate.
This situation raises questions about his future. A world champion in Moto2 and arriving in the premier category with an impressive record, Morbidelli must quickly regain his level or risk being sidelined.
An uncertain future: who for 2027?
On the eve of the Thai Grand Prix, discussions regarding riders for 2027 are expected to commence. Morbidelli knows he must deliver an exceptional performance upon the resumption in Jerez to hope to convince his management to give him another chance. The road ahead looks tough as Di Giannantonio proves day by day that he deserves his place in the team.
Uncertainty looms over the immediate future of both riders. If nothing changes quickly for Morbidelli, VR46’s decision could well become a mere formality in favour of Di Giannantonio.
In summary
- Morbidelli is experiencing a difficult start to the season despite a competitive Ducati.
- Di Giannantonio impresses with his pole positions and podium battles.
- Pressure is mounting at VR46 with the arrival of a young rider for 2027.
- Current performances could seal the future of both riders.
- Morbidelli must react in the upcoming races to avoid being sidelined.
