Marco Bezzecchi claims he has now made a choice regarding his future, as he is tipped to remain at VR46 for 2024.
VR46 Ducati rider Marco Bezzecchi has claimed he has made his decision in the midst of intense rumors on whether he will accept a move to the sister Pramac Racing team for the 2024 MotoGP season or remain with the VR46 Racing squad.
The Italian, who is in his second MotoGP season with Valentino Rossi’s satellite squad with Ducati, has emerged as the premier class’ breakthrough star in 2023 after winning three races—two main events and one sprint—and currently holding third place in the standings.
As a result of his rising reputation within the Ducati squad, its team management has been attempting to convince Bezzecchi to join Pramac Racing so he can ride 2024-spec gear next season.
However, Bezzecchi has been publicly hesitant about leaving a VR46 Racing team that is quickly establishing itself around him, despite the lure of on-spec machinery for the upcoming season.
In fact, according to Austrian paddock rumors, Bezzecchi will forgo the opportunity to race in the Ducati GP24 in favor of sticking with VR46 Racing, as advised by Rossi, the mentor of the VR46 Racing Academy. In any case, Bezzecchi asserts that his choice has been determined and will be announced soon.
“Vale is pushing a lot to be honest and I really appreciate this,” Bezzecchi said. “To be pushed but the ‘GOAT’ is something no-one in the world can say this.
“I made already my decision, I cannot tell you what I will do. Soon I will communicate it but it was fantastic to have this celebration [post-race] with Pecco and the VR46 riders.”
Bezzecchi’s comments come as Pramac Racing, which has decided to part ways with Johann Zarco, has revealed that there would be a vacancy in its squad for the upcoming season.
While the Frenchman’s decision was partly influenced by Ducati’s desire to convince Bezzecchi to join Pramac, if the Italian decides to stay with VR46 Racing, it will surprisingly free up a valuable spot on the grid.
There is no clear favorite to take one of the most sought-after spots on the MotoGP grid because the majority of well-known riders have either confirmed or strongly implied plans in place for 2024.
As of right now, Moto2 leaders Tony Arbolino and Jake Dixon, as well as Franco Morbidelli, stand out as potential targets.
In the meantime, Marc Marquez might potentially view this as a great chance to get out of his Honda contract after a season marred by inconsistency in his performance, problems on the track, and injuries.
