Pablo Nieto, team manager of Pertamina VR46, has dismissed sabotage claims while confirming a power deficit on Fabio Di Giannantonio’s Ducati at the Qatar Grand Prix. The Italian rider broke the all-time lap record at the Losail circuit in Practice with a 1’50.406, yet questions remain over a lack of top speed.

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Fierce speculation about a possible technical handicap has followed the rider’s pace.

Nieto confirms 30 horsepower shortfall

Nieto acknowledged a shortfall of around 30 horsepower and a 10 km/h loss in straight-line speed, describing it as “much too much” for MotoGP standards. Speaking from the Losail paddock, he revealed, “We’re working closely with Ducati because this situation is very unusual. Ten kilometres per hour is huge in MotoGP terms. We’re investigating everything from aerodynamics to rider positioning, but the reality is, two plus two doesn’t always equal four in this sport.”

He pinpointed that the most significant struggle occurs in the higher gears: “The biggest problem is in fifth and sixth gear on the final straight. We can manage the rest, but that last stretch is really difficult.”

Restrictor insinuations and VR46 denial

These revelations follow Fabio Di Giannantonio’s pointed insinuations of a possible “restrictor” or technical device limiting his bike’s speed, fueling rumors of sabotage or unfair treatment compared to rival Marc Marquez. The team leadership, including VR46’s Uccio Salucci, swiftly denied any conspiracy, asserting their commitment to fighting for victories when the opportunity arises.

Di Giannantonio’s record-breaking lap challenges the narrative of a crippled machine, proving exceptional overall performance despite the top-speed woes. Nieto remained measured, emphasizing ongoing efforts: “It’s only Friday. We’re still working hard with Ducati, and the manufacturer is deeply concerned. But at this stage, we have no clear answers.”

A divided paddock

This technical enigma has polarized the paddock and fans alike. Is the VR46 camp’s vocal frustration a justified complaint over a crippling mechanical disadvantage, or part of a late-season psychological battle to unsettle rivals?

The stark contrast between blistering lap times and straight-line speed deficits adds fuel to the debate.

As the MotoGP world watches closely, the Pertamina VR46 team and Ducati face mounting pressure to decode this power mystery before it costs them crucial championship points. Meanwhile, Di Giannantonio’s pace remains a glimpse of what might be achieved once this technical puzzle is solved.