VR46 team boss’ update on Ducati talks: “Other manufacturers are looking for us”

VR46 are still prioritising a long-term stay at Ducati, Pablo Nieto says.

Valentino Rossi’s MotoGP team will see their current contract as a Ducati satellite team conclude after the 2024 season although they retain an option to automatically extend their stay until the end of 2026.

But Yamaha - due to their personal links with Rossi, who is currently their brand ambassador - and KTM have been linked with bringing VR46 into their stables.

“It’s true that our contract ends at the end of this season,” team manager Nieto explained.

“But we have the option to continue for two more years with them.

“We are happy, now, with Ducati. This is clear.

“But, also, it’s true that the other manufacturers are looking for us.

“This is good for us because it means we are doing a very good job.

“When some manufacturers come to us and ask if we’re able or interested to change, it means we are doing good work.

“But at the moment? Our idea is to continue with Ducati.”

VR46’s Uccio Salucci had previously said: “My direction is to continue with Ducati.

“My dream is to sign the contract before Qatar because I want to stay quiet, I want to prepare this year very good.”

The 2024 MotoGP season begins in Qatar on March 8.

VR46 hope to again fight at the front with Marco Bezzecchi - last year’s breakthrough star - and Fabio di Giannantonio, their new recruit who shone in the final rounds of 2023.

“Last year we had almost the perfect season. We were fighting for the championship,” Nieto said.

“We have to be very happy. But that’s done. We have to think about this year.

“It’s important to see the differences between the ‘22 and ‘23 bikes.

“It’s true that the difference, we thought, was not so much.

“But it’s quite big. But the potential is bigger than last year.

“It’s the bike of the world champion, from Pecco. It’s a good step for us.”

Di Giannantonio, after learning that he would lose his Gresini spot to Marc Marquez, strung together a podium in Australia and a stunning victory in Qatar.

It earned him a switch to VR46 to replace Luca Marini.

“We saw the potential that he has, at the end of last season,” Nieto said about Di Giannantonio.

“It’s the first time we are working together. We have to know each other.

“It’s really important to get a relationship with his chief mechanic, and all of the team.

“But, the bike, he knows already. So this is important.”