Franco Morbidelli’s MotoGP form has dipped recently after an electric start to the 2025 season with the VR46 Racing Team.
Over the last two races, Morbidelli has had one retirement and a 15th place, following on from four consecutive top-four finishes.
The pressure will always be on the Italian at VR46, because he’s riding a very good Ducati bike and representing the legendary Valentino Rossi.
His contract is set to expire at the end of the season and his seat is going to be in high demand from some of his MotoGP rivals.
Morbidelli suffered a ‘heavy crash’ just weeks ago, but has done well to recover quickly and get back on his bike.
Eye-witnesses made worrying comments about Morbidelli’s crash after he appeared unconscious after demounting in Spain. It wouldn’t have been the first time he had to deal with a concussion.
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Franco Morbidelli under pressure at VR46 after Pedro Acosta revelation by Paolo Nieto
After joining from Pramac over the winter, Morbidelli took to his new bike like a duck to water at VR46. He didn’t require much of an adjustment.
It’s why he currently sits fourth in the riders’ standings, 11 points ahead of teammate Fabio Di Giannantonio.
However, one of his bosses – Uccio Salucci, has refused to rule out a move for young hotshot Pedro Acosta for 2026.
The 20-year-old is under contract with KTM until the end of the 2026 season, but may be able to be bought out of his current deal.
He would then receive the opportunity to be a title contender and go head-to-head with the likes of the Marquez brothers and Francesco Bagnaia at the front.
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Where would Franco Morbidelli go in 2026 if VR46 decides not to keep him?
Morbidelli will be a 31-year-old with nearly a decade of experience at the start of the 2026 season, which could be very useful to someone.
There aren’t too many ride openings at other teams, and having been on three of the five current manufacturers’ offerings at some stage, he knows what awaits him outside of Ducati.
The two teams he hasn’t been with before are KTM and Aprilia, the former of which may not be around for the new regulations in 2027.
It means that with Jorge Martin’s departure on the horizon, a move to Aprilia might be a wise move for Morbidelli.
A solid bike and the potential to develop it with his knowledge and experience could be a fruitful situation for all involved.
