Did the Qatar GP hint at Ducati’s true MotoGP leader?

OPINION: Johann Zarco talked a big game pre-season, and is so far vindicating himself as a factory rider at Pramac after finishing the Qatar GP as top Ducati in second. And contrasting his and Jack Miller's weekends and their approaches, is Zarco emerging as Ducati's true MotoGP leader?

Lewis Duncan Mar 30, 2021, 2:30 PM

Upd: Mar 30, 2021, 2:53 PM

Despite his absence from the 2021 grid, Andrea Dovizioso’s spectre hung over the paddock during the Qatar Grand Prix. On the week before the race it was announced he will test the Aprilia in April, while his manager batted away suggestions it could lead to race outings this season.

But it was at Ducati where he really loomed. Dovizioso ensured during MotoGP’s previous two visits to Qatar the top step of the podium was stained in red. As Ducati moves forward with its refreshed roster, that run was expected to continue in 2021.

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Author Lewis Duncan

Lewis Duncan is Autosport's International Editor and primary motorcycle racing reporter. A motorsport fan from a young age, Lewis became interested in journalism when he won the star letter competition in the February 2012 issue of F1 Racing Magazine. A member of the Autosport Academy from 2017, Lewis became a freelance motorcycle racing correspondent for Autosport in 2019 before becoming a full-time staffer in 2020 as International Editor.

While MotoGP coverage is his priority, Lewis also covers World Superbikes and road racing across the Motorsport Network, and hosts the Tank Slappers Podcast. He has also occasionally commentated on 750 Motor Club meetings. Away from motorsport, Lewis is a keen record collector with a collection unashamedly largely featuring Iron Maiden and Rush and an avid guitar player.