Ducati parts ways with Justin Barcia – will he also end his career?

Ahead of this coming weekend’s SMX season finale, Red Bull Ducati factory rider Justin Barcia has injured his foot and will be unable to take part. Almost at the same time, the Ducati works team announced that his contract would not be renewed. The second Ducati works rider, Dylan Ferrandis, will end his career after the race at Ridgedale. Ducati will therefore have to look for new riders for the coming season.

Statement from Justin Barcia

“It’s a shame to have to say this, but last weekend in LA was my final race with the TLD Red Bull Ducati Factory Racing Team,” explained Justin Barcia. “Unfortunately, I twisted my foot. I tried to ride this week, but it just wasn’t possible. It’s a shame to end the season like this, but overall it’s been a bloody good time. I’d like to thank the whole team for backing me on this brand-new bike this year. The whole team has worked hard and I think, at the end of the day, we’ve done a pretty good job.”

Future uncertain

Whether and how Justin Barcia will continue is currently completely uncertain. At 34, he is the oldest rider in the field. However, Justin Brayton was still competing at a high level in Supercross at the age of 38 before he ended his career. Eli Tomac, aged 33, will contest his final race this weekend. Ferrandis is retiring at 32. Should Barcia hang up his helmet, Ken Roczen, aged 32, would be the oldest rider, but he too has yet to make a decision about his future.