CARL FOGARTY SAYS FABIO DI GIANNANTONIO DESERVED THE FACTORY DUCATI SEAT INSTEAD OF PEDRO ACOSTA

Ducati’s announcement that Pedro Acosta will join the factory team for 2027 has sparked debate across the paddock, with some questioning whether the seat should have gone to someone else. Among the most vocal critics was four-time World Superbike champion Carl Fogarty, who argued that Fabio Di Giannantonio—often overlooked despite strong performances—deserved a full factory opportunity more than Acosta.

Fogarty’s comments came after Ducati confirmed Acosta for next season, a move that drew criticism from those who felt the team was effectively building a “Spanish national team” for 2027. While some reports suggested nationality wasn’t a factor in the decision, Fogarty said his concern wasn’t about background—it was about recognition of talent. He specifically pointed to Di Giannantonio, writing on social media that the Italian should have been the one to step into Ducati’s top-level machinery.

In his explanation to outlets including MotoGP News, Fogarty said he “wouldn’t say they shouldn’t have signed” Acosta, but added that he felt Di Giannantonio “gets a bit ignored.” Fogarty’s reasoning was grounded in Di Giannantonio’s 2026 form: he noted that before the last round, Di Giannantonio was “right in with a chance of winning the world championship,” and he believed the Italian had been “probably the fastest Ducati rider for the most part of this year.”

Fogarty also acknowledged the logic behind Ducati’s choice, saying he could understand why Acosta was targeted because “obviously he’s very, very talented,” while stressing that Ducati’s bike is “a bit of a different bike than the KTM.” Still, he maintained that Di Giannantonio “deserved a chance in the full factory team,” and that his comment was meant to highlight that belief.

He further reflected on the reaction his post received, saying “a lot of people agreed” with his view, while “a lot of people didn’t,” pointing out that Acosta is also “a good rider” and “very talented.” Fogarty concluded by suggesting the real test would come once Acosta becomes Marquez’s teammate, adding: “We’ll see what happens next year when he’s Marquez’s teammate.”

The situation carries an ironic twist for Di Giannantonio. While Fogarty wanted him in Ducati’s factory lineup, Di Giannantonio is set to replace Acosta at KTM next season—giving him a factory role for the first time in his MotoGP career. He will partner Alex Marquez, who is also leaving Ducati as part of the reshuffle.