Stoner predicts Ducati will dominate with 2027 MotoGP rules  

Casey Stoner, MotoGP World Champion in 2007 and a former Ducati rider, has made concerning predictions about the impact of the new MotoGP regulations set to come into effect in 2027. In a recent interview on the Ducati Diaries podcast, Stoner expressed a pessimistic view of the changes, suggesting that Ducati will continue to dominate the category.

According to Stoner, the new rules are designed to benefit Ducati, which already has a significant competitive advantage. “I think it’s Ducati basically trying to get these rules implemented again,” Stoner said. “They know they’re going to have an advantage in this situation. If you already have a lot of power—and everyone has a lot of power now—but Ducati still has a notable difference, that gap will be even larger with a smaller engine.”

Stoner also raised concerns about how the new rules might reduce overtaking opportunities. He explained that the reduction in braking zones will limit overtaking chances. “Braking zones are going to shrink, and when that happens, there are fewer opportunities to overtake,” he said. Additionally, the potential increase in corner speed could make overtaking even harder, as bikes will need to maintain speed through corners but have fewer opportunities to pass rivals under acceleration.

One of Stoner’s main criticisms is the growing technological sophistication of the bikes, which he believes overshadows rider skill. “I still feel like they’re Formula 1 cars with two wheels,” Stoner commented, referring to the technological advancements. “I want to see the riders’ talent, not just the technology.” For Stoner, what is missing is the opportunity to see riders in action, controlling slides and finding grip where there is little.

Stoner argues that bikes should become more difficult to ride rather than easier, to ensure rider skills are more evident. “People complain that the bikes are too powerful or too big,” he noted. “But that’s the point—you have to learn to control that power. If the bikes become easier to ride, it diminishes the challenge and the need for exceptional skills.”

As the 2027 rules approach, the debate continues over whether these changes will truly address the issues Stoner highlights or merely solidify Ducati’s advantage in MotoGP. The future of the category may depend on how these new regulations are implemented and whether they can balance advanced technology with rider skill.