Bagnaia down and out again but leaves mark at Mugello

Francesco ‘Pecco’ Bagnaia’s first Italian MotoGP as a Ducati rider ended with his third consecutive crash-induced DNF, spoiling an otherwise eye-catching weekend for the young rookie.

Riding the 2018-spec Pramac Ducati, resplendent in special yellow livery for the team’s home event, Bagnaia stole the spotlight on Friday after emerging as the surprise pace setter in FP2.

Enough to secure him a route through to Q2, Bagnaia started eighth – ahead of Andrea Dovizioso – and enjoyed a feisty race as he battled for top satellite honours well inside the top ten.

However, Bagnaia – who crashed in Jerez and Le Mans prior to Mugello – suffered yet another race day mishap crashing at the final corner as he contested sixth position with Cal Crutchlow.

A fourth DNF of the year, each because of physical race incidents, the youngster was disappointed not to reach the chequered flag at the end of an otherwise eye-catching weekend.

“It’s a shame we couldn’t finish the race. Our goal was to stay in the Top 10 and the race pace was very good. I am still satisfied because in the last three races we have made great steps forward. We’ll try again in Barcelona.”