Casey Stoner Reacts to Francesco Bagnaia’s Reflection: “Difficult to See My Name Next to Stoner” as Ducati MotoGP Champion
In 2024, Francesco Bagnaia made waves in the world of MotoGP when he claimed his second world championship title aboard the iconic Ducati. For many fans and insiders, this achievement evoked memories of another rider who had once dominated the premier class of motorcycle racing with the Italian manufacturer – Casey Stoner. Stoner, who famously secured Ducati’s first-ever MotoGP championship in 2007, has long been regarded as one of the most naturally talented and fearless riders in the sport’s history. Bagnaia’s success prompted him to humbly acknowledge the weight of following in Stoner’s footsteps, calling it “difficult” to see his name next to the legendary Australian.
Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia, who has become one of Ducati’s modern heroes, expressed profound respect for the legacy Stoner left behind. After all, Stoner’s triumph on the Desmosedici in 2007 ended an era of domination by Japanese manufacturers and ushered in a new chapter for Ducati in MotoGP. Bagnaia’s recent comments revealed his reverence for Stoner’s accomplishments, stating that even as a two-time champion, it felt surreal to see his name mentioned in the same breath as the Australian icon.
“Difficult” was the word Bagnaia used to describe the emotion that comes with being compared to Stoner, who, despite racing in an era of more raw machines, handled the Desmosedici with unprecedented skill. Bagnaia’s admiration for Stoner speaks volumes about the legacy the latter forged on the track and the influence he continues to have on MotoGP champions today. For Bagnaia, living up to that legacy, even with his own remarkable achievements, is a constant challenge.
Casey Stoner, never one to shy away from praising talent when he sees it, has been vocal about his admiration for Bagnaia’s riding style and determination. Stoner, who has remained an integral part of Ducati’s racing community even after his retirement in 2012, acknowledged Bagnaia’s skill and the evolution of Ducati as a team. His reaction to Bagnaia’s words was one of humility and support, reflecting the camaraderie and mutual respect between champions.
While Stoner may have ridden in a different era, one without the sophisticated electronics and advancements seen in modern MotoGP, he has always appreciated riders who showcase raw talent. Bagnaia, in his view, represents a new breed of riders who balance the technical demands of today’s bikes with an innate ability to push the limits. Stoner commented, “Pecco has proven himself to be incredibly talented. The fact that he’s achieved so much with Ducati speaks to his dedication and ability to evolve as a rider. I’m proud to see what he’s done with the bike.”
Stoner’s dominance on the Ducati in 2007 was particularly impressive given the challenges of the machine at that time. The Desmosedici was notoriously difficult to tame, with its powerful yet unpredictable engine and less refined handling compared to rival bikes. While modern MotoGP machines have vastly improved electronics and rider aids, which assist with traction control, braking, and acceleration, Stoner’s ability to handle the Ducati without these sophisticated tools set him apart.
One of the key aspects of Stoner’s greatness was his ability to ride around the limitations of the bike and exploit its strengths in a way few others could. Despite the Desmosedici’s quirks, Stoner’s aggressive yet calculated style allowed him to wrestle the machine to success, earning Ducati’s only title until Bagnaia ended the 15-year drought in 2022.
When asked about the comparison between his era and Bagnaia’s, Stoner was quick to acknowledge the technological advancements in the sport but maintained that the essence of championship-winning talent remains unchanged. “The electronics help manage certain aspects, but in the end, it’s still the rider who makes the difference. You can have all the technology in the world, but if you don’t have the skill, the guts, and the intelligence to use it, it won’t matter.”
Bagnaia’s rise to the top was not without its own set of challenges. After joining the factory Ducati team in 2021, Bagnaia quickly established himself as a contender, but it wasn’t until 2022 that he truly found his rhythm. His championship win that year broke Ducati’s long-standing title drought and put him on the path to becoming one of the sport’s most formidable riders. His success continued in 2023, where he battled fiercely with rivals to secure a second consecutive championship, solidifying his place among the sport’s elite.
Despite riding a bike equipped with cutting-edge electronics, Bagnaia’s victories required the same raw determination, skill, and tactical nous that champions of earlier eras, like Stoner, displayed. In this sense, Bagnaia’s humility in comparing himself to Stoner is well-founded. Stoner’s success came from his unique ability to ride a challenging machine to the limit, while Bagnaia’s triumphs reflect his ability to maximize the capabilities of modern technology and his sheer talent.
Even years after his retirement, Casey Stoner’s legacy looms large in the MotoGP world. His natural talent, fearlessness, and ability to tame the untamable remain a benchmark for Ducati riders and MotoGP hopefuls alike. While Bagnaia’s two titles have earned him a place among the elite, his comments about the difficulty of being compared to Stoner reflect the high regard in which the Australian is held.
For Stoner, seeing Ducati return to the top and watching riders like Bagnaia succeed has been a point of pride. Stoner has always been vocal about his love for the sport and the team that gave him his most memorable career moments. His praise for Bagnaia comes from a place of deep respect, and though the two may have ridden in different eras, their shared passion for Ducati unites them as champions.
As Bagnaia continues to carve out his own legacy, it’s clear that the shadow of Casey Stoner will always be a part of Ducati’s rich history. However, Bagnaia’s continued success ensures that the future of Du
cati is just as bright as its past.
