Fabio di Giannantonio Reflects on VR46 Academy’s Impact and His Future with Ducati
Eliška Ryšánková
News.GP journalist who’s all about the thrilling worlds of MotoGP and Formula 1.
Fabio di Giannantonio credits Valentino Rossi's VR46 Academy for his rapid progression in MotoGP, as he navigates his first season with VR46 Racing Ducati. The Italian rider, who has already secured his seat for 2025, shares his admiration for teammate Marc Marquez’s daring riding style and looks forward to competing with the cutting-edge Ducati GP25 next year.
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Fabio di Giannantonio has recently opened up about the significant influence of Valentino Rossi’s VR46 Academy. The Italian rider is currently navigating his first year with the VR46 team after two seasons with Gresini Racing, where he achieved a victory in Qatar. Despite a last-minute call to secure his seat for 2024, di Giannantonio’s future is looking bright, as he has already signed an extension with VR46 Racing for 2025.
Reflecting on his current season, di Giannantonio couldn’t help but express his admiration for Marc Marquez, particularly for his riding style. While only Marquez has reached the podium this season, di Giannantonio is relishing the opportunity to learn from him.
“We have the chance to share data, and that helps a lot,” he explained. “Marc has been incredible this year. In many rounds, we’re not far apart. He’s faster in practice and qualifying, but I’m closing the gap. He’s so good in left-hand corners—he just maximizes the bike.”
As the rider praised the Ducati GP23, he also acknowledged that to truly compete, you have to ride the bike on the edge. “Marc can do that all the time; he’s always taking risks. When I’m confident with the bike, I can do it too, but Marc is on the limit in nearly every situation.”
Next season, di Giannantonio will get his hands on the Ducati GP25, joining factory riders Pecco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, in what is a clear sign of confidence from Ducati. The 25-year-old views this upgrade as a career milestone, crediting the VR46 Academy for his rapid progression.
“I’ve always had huge respect for the Academy,” di Giannantonio told TNT Sports. “What they’ve done for young riders is incredible, giving us the support to compete at the highest level. They saw my potential and talent, and their backing has been life-changing. Now, I’m set to be a factory Ducati rider next year, and the energy in the team is just fantastic.”
As Ducati looks to claim a third consecutive MotoGP Championship, both Marquez and di Giannantonio have been putting up strong performances on the GP23, proving their worth.
