The Italian team had however tried to dictate its timing by announcing Friday that the fate of Andrea Dovizioso would be recorded after the two Austrian Grand Prix (August 16 and 23). But this Saturday morning, the manager of the three-time vice-world champion Simone Battistella announced to the Sky Italia television channel that his pilot would no longer run under the red colors in 2021.
“We communicated to Ducati that Andrea does not intend to continue for the next few years, that he now wants to focus on the next races, but that there are no conditions to continue together, said Battistella. Even if there are no ongoing negotiations with the other teams. Andrea feels much more serene now that he has made this decision. “
At Ducati since 2013, Dovizioso is nevertheless one of the MotoGP bosses with fourteen victories on the clock. But the budgetary restrictions linked to the health crisis and the rise of younger drivers (Miller, Bagnaia, even Zarco) within the formation of Borgo Panigale had delayed discussions for a new contract.
In difficulty since the start of the season (4th overall), Dovizioso seemed to suffer from this lack of recognition. This time, on the eve of the start of an Austrian Grand Prix that he likes (two victories) he will be able to set off with a free spirit.
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