As Francesco Bagnaia prepares to make his 100th start in MotoGP’s premier class, the Ducati star has carved a remarkable legacy filled with unforgettable victories. From breakthrough wins to championship-defining moments, Bagnaia’s career has been a masterclass in determination, skill, and passion for the sport. Here, we take a look at 10 of his best triumphs that have defined his journey to becoming one of MotoGP’s elite.
1. First MotoGP Win – 2021 Aragon Grand Prix
Bagnaia’s maiden MotoGP victory came at the Aragon Grand Prix in 2021, and it was a masterpiece of racecraft. In a tense battle with six-time world champion Marc Márquez, Bagnaia displayed nerves of steel, holding off Márquez for 23 laps to claim his first victory in the premier class. This win not only solidified his potential but also marked him as a future title contender.
2. 2022 Italian Grand Prix – Winning on Home Soil
Every rider dreams of winning their home Grand Prix, and Bagnaia made that dream a reality at Mugello in 2022. Racing in front of the passionate Italian crowd, Bagnaia produced a flawless performance, securing a dominant win at one of MotoGP’s most iconic circuits. This victory carried special significance, as it was a moment of national pride for the Italian star and further showcased his growth as a rider.
3. 2022 Dutch Grand Prix – Comeback from a Crash
Bagnaia’s resilience was on full display at the 2022 Dutch Grand Prix, where he bounced back after crashing out in the previous two races. With pressure mounting, Bagnaia answered his critics by taking a commanding victory at Assen, one of MotoGP’s most historic circuits. This win helped reignite his title campaign and demonstrated his mental toughness in overcoming adversity.
4. 2021 San Marino Grand Prix – Double Win at Misano
The 2021 season saw Bagnaia claim back-to-back victories at Misano, one of Ducati’s home circuits. His win at the San Marino GP was especially significant, as it came on the heels of his Aragon victory, solidifying his status as Ducati’s leading rider. With Fabio Quartararo hot on his heels, Bagnaia delivered a flawless ride, securing a second consecutive win and thrilling the home crowd.
5. 2022 Valencia Grand Prix – Title-Deciding Triumph
Perhaps the most important victory of Bagnaia’s career came at the 2022 Valencia Grand Prix, where he sealed his first MotoGP World Championship. Heading into the final race with a slim points advantage over Quartararo, Bagnaia needed a calm and measured ride to secure the title. While he didn’t win the race, his solid performance was enough to clinch the championship, becoming the first Ducati rider to win the title since Casey Stoner in 2007.
6. 2023 Austrian Grand Prix – Tactical Masterclass
At the Red Bull Ring, Bagnaia showcased his tactical brilliance in the 2023 Austrian Grand Prix. Starting from pole, he led the race from start to finish, never putting a foot wrong. His ability to manage the gap to the chasing pack and control the pace throughout the race was a testament to his race management skills, and the victory added to his growing reputation as one of the most intelligent riders on the grid.
7. 2022 Malaysian Grand Prix – Championship Pressure
In the penultimate round of the 2022 season, Bagnaia faced immense pressure to maintain his championship lead. At Sepang, he delivered a brilliant ride, fighting off intense competition to win the Malaysian Grand Prix. This victory gave him a significant advantage heading into the final race of the season and was pivotal in his title-winning campaign.
8. 2023 French Grand Prix – Wet Weather Mastery
Bagnaia’s win at the 2023 French Grand Prix was a showcase of his adaptability in challenging conditions. With the unpredictable weather at Le Mans throwing the grid into chaos, Bagnaia remained composed, expertly managing his tires and pace to take victory in the wet. This triumph further demonstrated his versatility and ability to handle any situation thrown his way.
9. 2021 Algarve Grand Prix – Pure Dominance
The Algarve GP in 2021 saw Bagnaia deliver one of the most dominant performances of his career. Leading from start to finish, Bagnaia never looked threatened, controlling the race with precision and finesse. This victory at Portimão was a statement of intent, as he continued to build momentum toward the end of the 2021 season.
10. 2022 British Grand Prix – A Statement Win
Silverstone has always been a favorite track for riders, and Bagnaia made his mark at the 2022 British Grand Prix with a sensational win. Starting from fifth on the grid, he clawed his way through the field and held off stiff competition to take the top step of the podium. This win was crucial in keeping his title hopes alive and showcased his determination to fight until the end.
As Bagnaia prepares for his 100th start in the MotoGP premier class, his career is already filled with breathtaking moments that have left fans in awe. From his first victory to championship glory, each triumph has shaped him into one of the most exciting talents in the sport. With plenty more to achieve, Bagnaia’s journey is far from over, and MotoGP fans will no doubt be eagerly awaiting his next great performance.
