Why Ducati must change to achieve MotoGP greatness

Jorge Lorenzo will leave Ducati this year with his tenure at the Italian manufacturer marked by acrimony, echoing Casey Stoner's exit in 2010. Here's why Ducati needs to alter its approach to get the best from its stars.

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Last week, double MotoGP world champion and Ducati test rider Casey Stoner revealed that the marque doesn't "use his feedback or data", adding to speculation that the Australian will not be renewing his deal at Bologna past 2018.

This is the second time Stoner has felt undervalued by Ducati in his career, and, coming just months after it announced Jorge Lorenzo's departure right when he came into stunning form, it once again highlights a serious issue Ducati has displayed time and time again.

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Author Lewis Duncan

Lewis Duncan is Autosport's International Editor and primary motorcycle racing reporter. A motorsport fan from a young age, Lewis became interested in journalism when he won the star letter competition in the February 2012 issue of F1 Racing Magazine. A member of the Autosport Academy from 2017, Lewis became a freelance motorcycle racing correspondent for Autosport in 2019 before becoming a full-time staffer in 2020 as International Editor.

While MotoGP coverage is his priority, Lewis also covers World Superbikes and road racing across the Motorsport Network, and hosts the Tank Slappers Podcast. He has also occasionally commentated on 750 Motor Club meetings. Away from motorsport, Lewis is a keen record collector with a collection unashamedly largely featuring Iron Maiden and Rush and an avid guitar player.