Ducati Lenovo Team Arrives in Australia with Bagnaia-Pirro Lineup

With Marc Márquez sidelined after shoulder surgery, Michele Pirro joins Francesco Bagnaia for the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island as Ducati Lenovo Team targets a strong finish to the season.

Subscribe to our Instagram Channel for instant news & updates!

The Ducati Lenovo Team arrives at Phillip Island for the 19th round of the MotoGP season, featuring a new lineup: Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia and Michele Pirro. The team faces the Australian Grand Prix with renewed focus and determination while Marc Márquez continues his recovery from shoulder surgery in Madrid.

Marquez Recovering, Pirro Steps In

Following his crash at the Indonesian Grand Prix, Marc Márquez sustained a fracture at the base of the coracoid process and ligament damage in his right shoulder. After a week of immobilisation and further medical evaluations, doctors recommended a minor surgical procedure.

To ensure continuity, Ducati test rider Michele Pirro will step in as a replacement for this round. This marks his 70th start in the premier MotoGP class.

A Track Rich in Ducati History

Phillip Island is revered among riders and fans alike, known for its sweeping corners and coastal winds. Ducati has a strong record on this circuit, claiming six victories in its history.

Casey Stoner dominated with four consecutive home wins between 2007 and 2010. This was before Johann Zarco broke a 13-year drought in 2023, followed by Marc Márquez’s victory in 2024.

The circuit holds emotional and historical weight for the Borgo Panigale manufacturer, and expectations are high for another strong performance.

Bagnaia Seeks Consistency

Francesco Bagnaia arrives in Australia third in the championship standings with 274 points, aiming to bounce back after a difficult race at Mandalika. The reigning world champion has consistently performed at Phillip Island. He finished third in 2024, second in 2023, and third again in 2022.

Eyes on Friday’s Start

The team will begin its Australian campaign with Free Practice 1 on Friday, 17 October, at 10:45 a.m. local time. With Bagnaia looking to return to form and Pirro stepping into Márquez’s seat, the Ducati Lenovo Team enters the Australian Grand Prix with both resolve and resilience. The team is ready to defend its red legacy on one of MotoGP’s most iconic stages.