Gloves are off when it comes to team-mates - Bastianini

Factory Ducati MotoGP new-boy Enea Bastianini won’t be pulling any punches during the 2023 season and will be fighting tooth and nail with team-mate and world champion Pecco Bagnaia.

Bastianini admits he will have to work together with Bagnaia in the garage to get the best from the the Desmosedici but on-track, it will be every man for himself. “I’m here to try. I was put in the official team, so I’ll definitely have a chance at winning the title,” said Bastianini

“There are many of us - Pecco will want to retain, but there are many other riders who are competitive. Today’s MotoGP is really difficult.

“I think we’ve already had some good battles but we have to continue. It’s now essential to work together and develop the bike at its best. Then, on the track, when it’s time for the race everyone will fend for themselves, as it should be.

“We’ve already had fun this year and we’ve had some good battles like in Misano, Aragon and Malaysia. So we’ll try to repeat this in the future.”

Bastianini has only had one day on the factory bike he will champion in 2023 and says there will be some learning to do.

“I think I’ve adapted quite quickly but in a one-day test it’s difficult to say what the feelings can be,” added Bastianini.

“It’s a team that works really well. My electronics remained the same. My crew chief was replaced so we’ll have to establish a good relationship.”