Imagine Ducati, the powerhouse of MotoGP, losing their grip on the championship due to a salary dispute with a rising star. That’s the shocking reality unfolding as negotiations with David Alonso hit a major roadblock. Ducati, already on the verge of securing Marc Marquez’s contract extension—a pivotal move for their 2027 lineup—now faces the possibility of Honda swooping in to claim one of the sport’s most promising talents.
Ducati currently holds sway over four coveted seats in MotoGP, and their plans for dominance are clear. They’re eyeing Pedro Acosta to replace Francesco Bagnaia as Marquez’s teammate, while also aiming to secure Fermin Aldeguer and David Alonso—arguably the three most electrifying talents in motorcycle racing today. But here’s where it gets controversial: Alonso, the 2024 Moto3 champion and a favorite in Moto2 this year, is demanding a ‘top rider’s salary,’ while Ducati is only willing to offer a fraction of that.
According to reports, Alonso is asking for ten times what Ducati is prepared to pay. Is he overreaching, or is Ducati undervaluing his potential? This standoff could push Alonso into the arms of Honda or even Yamaha, both of whom have shown interest. And this is the part most people miss: While Ducati’s wage structure is strict, Honda, as the grid’s most successful team, could offer Alonso not just money, but a platform to redefine MotoGP’s new era.
Meanwhile, VR46, despite being linked to Yamaha and Aprilia, has expressed a desire to continue their partnership with Ducati. Their rider, Fabio Di Giannantonio, is already contracted to the Bologna brand, as is Gresini’s Aldeguer. But with Valentino Rossi eyeing Alonso or Aldeguer for 2027 as a backup plan, the stakes are higher than ever.
Could Ducati’s refusal to meet Alonso’s demands cost them their future dominance? Or is Alonso making a smart move by testing the market? Let’s not forget, Aldeguer reportedly earned just £250k as a rookie—a figure Alonso could easily surpass if he lives up to the hype. But is that enough to keep him from jumping ship?
As Alex Marquez edges closer to KTM, the Ducati satellite spots are up for grabs. Will Alonso settle for a modest paycheck and a chance to shine, or will he chase the big money and prestige of a team like Honda? The answer could reshape the MotoGP landscape for years to come.
What do you think? Is Alonso’s salary demand justified, or is Ducati right to hold firm? Share your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over!
