Fabio Di Giannantonio has defended Francesco Bagnaia after DAZN broadcast footage of a conversation between the two riders at Misano. The VR46 Racing Team rider considered the decision unfair because, in his view, the exchange concerned a personal matter and reflected a normal conversation between riders who have known each other for a long time.

The pair were filmed speaking after the race in the broadcasters’ set. Their discussion centred on Bagnaia’s difficulties with the 2026 Ducati. Misano had been a particularly difficult weekend for him: he failed to reach Q2 and later crashed out of the race. Di Giannantonio suggested trying a different setup, but Bagnaia replied that he could not do so because of a Ducati decision.

Bagnaia criticised DAZN, the Spanish broadcaster that released the footage, describing the publication as disrespectful. Third parties subsequently shared the clip on social media. Speaking on Thursday at the Red Bull Ring before the Austrian MotoGP, Di Giannantonio argued that the conversation should not have been used simply to attract more clicks.

Why Di Giannantonio backed Bagnaia

Di Giannantonio said Bagnaia had supported him in the past, when he was dealing with his own difficulties on a Ducati. On those occasions, Bagnaia shared information and advice that could help him improve. Di Giannantonio therefore regarded it as natural to offer similar support when he was in a position to help another rider.

His objection went beyond this particular broadcast. Di Giannantonio said that the constant presence of cameras is making it harder for riders to speak openly with one another. He linked the issue to criticism directed at major tennis tournaments over cameras placed in areas away from the courts, where moments are recorded and then quickly circulated on social media.

In his view, MotoGP needs a clearer distinction between reporting on the sport and recording a private exchange. He compared the conversation with a friendly discussion in a pub: riders should be able to talk about their motorcycles without worrying that an open microphone is always nearby. For Di Giannantonio, the Misano incident illustrates a broader issue that MotoGP should address.