Fermin Aldeguer Acknowledges Disappointment After Ducati Opts to Delay Factory Team Promotion

Fermin Aldeguer has expressed his disappointment with Ducati’s decision to postpone his promotion to the factory team for the 2026 MotoGP season, while simultaneously accepting the rationale behind the decision. The young Spanish rider, currently competing with Gresini Racing, had anticipated receiving full factory equipment for his second year in the premier class, following a deal directly signed with Ducati. However, Ducati has opted to allocate the additional GP26 machine, currently under development, to his teammate Alex Marquez.

Aldeguer’s ascent to MotoGP followed a successful stint in Moto2, culminating in a direct contract with Ducati before the commencement of his 2024 Moto2 campaign. Expectations were high for the rookie, and Ducati management has reportedly been satisfied with his performance in his debut season, particularly his late-race pace and tyre management skills.

The decision to prioritize Alex Marquez for the factory bike in 2026 comes at a crucial juncture in the MotoGP rule cycle. The 2026 season will be the last under the current regulations, which limits development opportunities for manufacturers. Furthermore, an existing engine freeze prohibits Ducati from introducing a new power unit, placing added emphasis on chassis and aerodynamic development for competitive advantage.

Despite the setback, Aldeguer acknowledged the rationale behind Ducati’s decision to delay his factory team promotion. Speaking to Motorsport.com, Aldeguer admitted, "Difficult – it’s difficult [to accept] because at this moment we are very competitive, we are fast." He added, "For sure, I need some more things from the bike because the official bike is always a little bit better."

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However, Aldeguer conceded that his relative inexperience in the premier class played a role in Ducati’s decision. "But the reality is that it’s my second year [and] I think the GP25 will be a very good bike," he stated. "I have the support of Ducati. It’s not a problem for me not to have the official bike, but we are fighting for the future."

Aldeguer remains optimistic about his future prospects with Ducati, expressing his hope for a factory team opportunity in 2027. "Maybe it’s not my moment to use this bike, but we will see. If we have a good season next year, maybe in 2027 we are in the red team," he remarked.

The decision by Ducati to prioritize Marquez over Aldeguer highlights the strategic considerations of the Italian manufacturer as it navigates the final years of the current MotoGP regulations. With limited development opportunities available, Ducati is aiming to optimize its rider lineup and equipment allocation to maximize its chances of success.

Aldeguer’s current standing in the championship underscores his potential as a future contender. Having already secured the rookie of the year title, Aldeguer sits eighth in the overall standings with two rounds remaining in the 2024 season. His maiden victory at the Indonesian Grand Prix in early October, coupled with podium finishes in France and Austria, demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level.

Despite his impressive performances, Aldeguer recognizes the need for further improvement, particularly in qualifying. Across the first 20 race weekends, Aldeguer has only managed to start inside the front two rows on five occasions, highlighting an area where he aims to improve his consistency.

Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Aldeguer emphasized his focus on consistency and avoiding undue pressure. "I don’t want to put a lot of pressure on myself for next season," he stated. "I will just try to enjoy, try to be fast, to have the speed, and be competitive."

Aldeguer’s pragmatic approach reflects his understanding of the challenges involved in MotoGP and his commitment to long-term development. "After this first season, for sure, my goal is to stay in the top five and to do more podiums, fight for more victories. But we have to start with calm, with a good mentality, don’t put a lot of pressure, and [take things] step by step," he explained.

Ducati’s decision to allocate the factory bike to Alex Marquez reflects the team’s assessment of its current rider lineup and its strategic priorities for the 2026 season. While Aldeguer’s potential is undeniable, Marquez’s experience and established relationship with the team may have been factors in Ducati’s decision.

Alex Marquez, the younger brother of eight-time world champion Marc Marquez, joined Gresini Racing in 2023 after spending two seasons with LCR Honda. In his first season with Gresini, Marquez secured a victory in the sprint race at Silverstone and achieved two additional podium finishes, demonstrating his ability to adapt to the Ducati Desmosedici.

Marquez’s experience and familiarity with the Ducati machinery may have been a key consideration for Ducati in its decision-making process. With limited development opportunities available in the final years of the current regulations, Ducati may have prioritized stability and continuity within its rider lineup.

The decision to prioritize Marquez over Aldeguer underscores the competitive landscape of MotoGP and the strategic considerations that teams must take into account when allocating resources and equipment. While Aldeguer’s disappointment is understandable, his positive attitude and commitment to improvement suggest that he remains a strong contender for a factory team opportunity in the future.

As Aldeguer continues his development with Gresini Racing, his performances in the 2025 season will be closely watched by Ducati management. If Aldeguer can demonstrate consistent podium finishes and challenge for race wins, he may well position himself as a leading candidate for a factory team seat in 2027, when the new MotoGP regulations come into effect.