Ducati’s General Manager, Gigi Dall’Igna, has hailed Marc Marquez’s remarkable triumph at the Australian MotoGP, describing the victory as “awesome” and a testament to Marquez’s exceptional talent and fighting spirit.
The Gresini rider faced early adversity after falling from second to 13th on the first lap, caused by an unusual incident—an insect hit his visor, and when he removed the tear-off, it got stuck under his bike, resulting in wheel-spin. However, Marquez’s resilience was on full display as he battled his way back through the pack, eventually overtaking pole-sitter Jorge Martin to claim his third grand prix victory of the 2024 season on a Ducati.
Dall’Igna, who had made the strategic decision to sign Marquez for Ducati’s factory team in 2025, was effusive in his praise. “Sixteenth win of the season! Six of our bikes in the top 6 positions: another historic first to celebrate together. Another wonderful opportunity to thank all those who make up the great Ducati Corse family,” Dall’Igna said.
He went on to highlight the significance of Marquez’s performance: “An awesome Marc Marquez bags his third 2024 success to reaffirm, as if needed, that he is very much there, back at the top of MotoGP. And he does it in his inimitable way following an unbelievable comeback, imposing himself over everything and everyone as the ‘winner-takes-all.’”
The thrilling duel between Marquez and Jorge Martin was one of the race’s defining moments, with Martin pushing hard but ultimately unable to hold off the charging Spaniard. Dall’Igna acknowledged Martin’s effort, noting that while he had more to lose in the championship fight, he showed great maturity by securing valuable points and moving 20 points ahead of Francesco Bagnaia in the standings.
“Jorge tried to prevail, with great merit but not at all costs. He got off to a good start and stayed at the front until the last laps, engaging in a gripping fight with Marc. But after giving everything, he focused on the bigger picture—gaining the points that were most important,” Dall’Igna explained.
Dall’Igna also reflected on Bagnaia’s challenging weekend, as the reigning world champion struggled to find his rhythm on the newly re-surfaced Phillip Island track. Despite the difficulties, Bagnaia secured an important third-place finish, a testament to his determination to limit the damage in the championship race.
“Pecco experienced a rather lacklustre weekend… but in these situations, the traits of a fighter come to the fore. He did very well, seizing an important podium,” Dall’Igna said.
Fabio Di Giannantonio also received praise for his impressive 4th-place finish, coming from 12th on the grid. Dall’Igna expressed hope that this strong performance would bode well for the young rider’s future.
With the Australian race now in the rearview mirror, Dall’Igna and the Ducati team are already focusing on the Thai Grand Prix, anticipating more thrilling battles in the final stretch of the season. As the MotoGP world watches eagerly, Ducati remains in a commanding position, with their riders leading the way in a historic season for the team.
“Come on, Ducati!” Dall’Igna concluded, eager for what’s to come.
