Ducati’s Michele Pirro is set to make a return to the grid as he steps in for Fabio Di Giannantonio at VR46 Racing for the 2024 MotoGP season finale, the Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona.
This announcement comes after Di Giannantonio underwent successful shoulder surgery, which has sidelined him for the remainder of the season. He was replaced by Andrea Iannone who unfortunately will not get a second outing on the team’s Ducati GP23.
As a trusted test rider for Ducati, Michele Pirro’s involvement not only marks his first race of the year but also extends his remarkable streak of participating in at least one MotoGP event each season since 2012.
VR46 Racing’s decision to replace Fabio Di Giannantonio with Pirro aligns with Ducati’s strategic focus on utilizing their test rider to gain valuable insights ahead of the upcoming 2025 season.
The Italian’s experience and familiarity with the Desmosedici GP23 will be instrumental as he prepares to assist Ducati’s factory riders, Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, during the crucial post-race test scheduled for November 19 at the same circuit.
Michele Pirro’s journey in MotoGP has been characterized by resilience and adaptability. Known for his pivotal role in developing Ducati’s racing technology, he has consistently contributed to the evolution of the Desmosedici.
His return to racing comes at a time when Ducati is enjoying a competitive edge, having dominated almost all races throughout the 2024 season. The new concession rules implemented this year prevented Ducati from fielding wildcards, which limited Pirro’s opportunities to race until now.
The Barcelona race weekend promises to be an exciting MotoGP season finale. The event, renamed the Solidarity Grand Prix due to recent flooding in Valencia, aims to raise awareness and support for those affected by natural disasters.
Michele Pirro expressed gratitude for being given this opportunity and emphasized his commitment to honor both VR46 Racing and the victims of recent calamities.
“First of all, thanks to the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team and Ducati for this great opportunity to close the season on a MotoGP,” Pirro said. “It is always nice to race in this category and then also with Valentino’s colours, whom I thank together with Uccio (Salucci) and Pablo (Nieto).
“I send a big hug to Fabio, he was doing really well but not being 100% physically fit on this engine size is complicated and next year he really has a great opportunity with the GP25.
“It will be interesting for me to race on the GP23, I will be able to see where we have made some steps forward. I have no expectations for the race, but I am happy to race, also for all the people affected by the floods in Valencia, and I hope to honour the team and the working group. See you on the track.”
While fans may have hoped for Andrea Iannone’s continued presence after his recent return at the Malaysian GP, VR46 Racing opted for Pirro due to his extensive experience and familiarity with the bike.
Valentino Rossi gave Iannone the chance to race in Malaysia which let the Italian get his first taste of MotoGP since the 2019 season. Iannone proceeded to finish the race 17th.
The Solidarity Grand Prix will not only serve as a platform for Michele Pirro but also as a crucial testing ground for Ducati’s future endeavors. The insights gained during this race will be invaluable as they transition into next season’s preparations.
In addition to Pirro’s participation, this weekend will be emotionally charged for Marco Bezzecchi, who is set to race with VR46 Racing for the last time before transitioning to Aprilia next season. Bezzecchi has faced challenges throughout 2024 but remains determined to finish on a high note with his current team.
