The world of MotoGP is abuzz with the upcoming 2027 technical changes, and Ducati Corse general manager Gigi Dall'Igna is at the forefront of this exciting development. With a passion for innovation, Dall'Igna views these changes as a 'blank sheet' opportunity, offering a fresh canvas for Ducati to create a revolutionary bike.
The 2027 regulations bring a host of exciting changes, including smaller 850cc engines, banned ride-height devices, tighter aerodynamics limits, and a switch from Michelin to Pirelli tyres. According to Dall'Igna, these combined modifications will result in a 'completely new bike'.
"The most important thing is the know-how that you have," Dall'Igna stated. "That, for sure, you carry to the future. But there are not a lot of things you can carry over, because with the ban of the ride-height device, different engine capacity, and different tyres, in the end, you have to build a completely new bike."
His enthusiasm for this challenge is evident, as he sees it as an opportunity to push the boundaries of engineering. "Absolutely, it excites me. When you can start from a completely new piece of paper, for an engineer, this is the best toy you can have."
Dall'Igna's vision extends beyond the technical specifications. He has proposed introducing F1-style hybrid engines for the new era, aiming to integrate a small electric motor into the 2027 bike. While acknowledging the cost challenges, he believes that this approach fosters creativity and innovation.
"Honestly, I would like to have a small electric motor on the '27 bike," he shared. "I pushed at the beginning to have this sort of hybridisation of the bike. But from the cost point of view, for sure, this is quite difficult. But I think we can learn something. Creativity becomes important again if you introduce this kind of solution."
As Ducati plays catch-up in the world championship standings, these 2027 changes present a unique challenge and opportunity. With a focus on innovation and a willingness to embrace new ideas, Dall'Igna is determined to make the most of this 'blank sheet' opportunity, pushing Ducati to new heights in the world of MotoGP.
