In his first year returning to racing, Andrea Iannone immediately showed his level on the GoEleven satellite team’s Ducati Panigale V4R in the WSBK Championship. The MotoGP line-up in mid-June 2024 is very dynamic with many teams, both manufacturers and satellite teams, whose drivers have not yet been confirmed for the 2025 season and Iannone is widely said to be a credible candidate to return to racing in MotoGP. Ducati itself still has several empty places and the potential for more empty places if a racer moves to another manufacturer. What if Iannone returns to MotoGP with Ducati? This is clearly an interesting question answered by the Lenovo Ducati team manager – Davide Tardozzi.
“I had a brief relationship with Andrea and as we know Paolo Campinoti is a big admirer of him. However, I think this is quite difficult for several reasons. Andrea did very well (debut) in WSBK, but MotoGP is a step further and I don’t know if after all these years he can still digest it. In addition, the way of riding has changed and at the same time so have the characteristics of the bike.”
“Considering his age, Andrea must try to perform well at SBK. What is certain is that MotoGP is in his head, but I see it being difficult for him to achieve it. However, he has natural talent, and I want to remember something Marquez said to me a few years ago: Iannone is the only rider Marc fears in Moto2, and Andrea deserves the respect of the eight-time world champion.”
Davide was then asked to GPOne what he would do if he were in Iannone’s position and saw the potential of returning to MotoGP. As we know, there are many rumors circulating that Iannone is exploring Pramac Racing, which has one plan to use a Yamaha M1 next year.
“Obviously I will try and what is clear is that Iannone wants to try again, because he is a talented racer who has passion. I personally think it’s appropriate for him to try to return to MotoGP, as if he believes in his own ability. qualities he should try.
“But, at the same time, I use the excuse, aware of the dynamics of the paddock at the moment, I actually said it would be difficult. But one thing is certain: if a rider performs strongly in a race, he must believe and try. Therefore, if he thinks he is strong, he should give it a try.”
