Franco Morbidelli slipped to 14th place in the Czech Grand Prix, deepening his struggles in MotoGP.
During the Sunday session the Ducati rider admitted he had “maximised everything” yet “had no grip at all.” He highlighted that even after a strong start and a sharper pace early in the weekend, the race result reflected the persistent lack of traction that has plagued him since the season’s opening.
Morbidelli readably reflected on the mismatch between his qualifying prospects and race output. “I was on the front row in Barcelona and had excellent pace after Friday’s practice in Mugello, but the races… I forget how to ride a MotoGP bike,” he told reporters. The 2020 world runner‑up, who claimed three victories, now faces the possibility of losing his place on the grid for the following year as his results hit new lows.
Pressure and Performance
When asked whether the weight of future uncertainty was affecting his performance, the 2017 Moto2 champion replied that he has always lived with pressure. “I’ve dealt with the pressure of winning a world championship for almost twenty years. I’m not afraid of being unworthy anymore,” he emphasised. His focus remains on “doing everything possible” rather than hovering around his position on the leaderboard.
Morbidelli highlighted the collective effort behind his camp. “The team is full of people who never give up. We’re in a very positive atmosphere and we’ll push everything we have in every moment,” he said, hinting that a revival could come later in the season, especially if grip continues to improve.
Outlook for the Remainder of the Season
The Ducati‑sided rider closed by stressing that he and his crew are giving their “soul” to perform. He is hopeful that the enduring support structure of the team will bring a rebound, even with the looming threat to his MotoGP seat.
As the 2024 calendar moves forward, Morbidelli’s current form remains a stark indicator that the road to a successful season will demand consistent handling and continued confidence on the track.
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