Bassani ‘focused’ on 2021, but factory Ducati ride would be ‘a very good thing’

WIth the WorldSBK silly season in full flow, Aruba.it Ducati’ line-up for 2022 remains one of the bigger storylines to follow. 

Current riders Scott Redding and Michael Rinaldi have both claimed victories already this season, however, the pair have also been inconsistent at times. 

Rinaldi is on a one-year deal after replacing Chaz Davies, while Redding is in the final year of his two-year deal, meaning changes are possible for 2022.

One of the names that has been touted to step into the factory team should Redding and/or Rinaldi not be retained, is WorldSBK rookie Axel Bassani. 

The youngest rider currently in the series has impressed on many occasions including Misano where he claimed three top ten finishes. 

Before round five of the season in Assen last weekend, Bassani shared his thoughts on the current campaign by saying: "For the moment I’m very, very happy about the season. It’s difficult the first year, but in the first four rounds we did a very good job and we try to continue in this way. 

"I feel very good with the paddock, the circuits, the riders, but nothing. I’m really focused on my goals." 

Bassani was reluctant to say much when asked about the rumours linking him to Aruba.it Ducati. However, the 22 year-old did claim ‘it is a good thing’ should the possibility arise. 

"For the moment I repeat, I’m really focused on my goals and I try to stay with the mind on 2021. Next year, if there is the possibility to step-up, then yes it is a very good thing. But I am focused on this year for the moment." he said.