VR46 team manager Pablo Nieto has admitted that expectations and pressure are high heading into the 2026 MotoGP season, as the team looks to convert its factory-supported Ducati status into stronger results.
Last season, Fabio di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli were the only Ducati riders who failed to secure a race win, finishing sixth and seventh overall despite VR46’s step up in technical support. According to Nieto, that pressure reflects the potential within the team rather than a weakness.
Speaking at VR46’s season launch in Rome, where the team revealed its updated black-and-yellow livery, Nieto also highlighted that Ducati’s rivals have closed the gap significantly. He believes MotoGP is now more competitive than ever, with all manufacturers operating at a very high level.
Nieto stressed that being Ducati’s factory-supported satellite team brings added responsibility, but also motivation. He noted that pressure is a necessary part of progress and sees 2026 as a crucial year for VR46’s development.
He also warned that early-season performance will be key, as the opening races often shape the direction of the entire championship. With competitors improving across the board, focus and consistency from the first round will be essential.
For 2026, di Giannantonio will once again ride factory-spec Ducati machinery, while Morbidelli continues on a year-old bike. Both riders will first showcase the new colours during the official Sepang pre-season test from February 3 to 5.
