Mahindra gifts Bagnaia his 2016 Moto3-winning bike

Bagnaia scored a historic first win for Mahindra Racing at last year’s Dutch TT, before going on to bring more silverware in Malaysia.

Since the breakthrough season with Mahindra where he finished fourth in the riders standings, Bagnaia has stepped up to Moto2 this year with the Valentino Rossi-run VR46 squad.

However, the Italian continues to enjoy a strong relationship with Mahindra, who presented him with his 2016 bike at the team’s base in Besozzo, Italy.

“When Pecco got us our first podium of 2016 in the season opener in Qatar, I promised him his bike to keep if he also got us our first race win that year, a little extra motivation – not that he needed much more,” Mahindra Racing CEO Mufaddal Choonia said.

“After his incredible win in Assen, he came to me and asked me if I remembered the promise I made to him in Qatar.

“At Mahindra, when we make a promise, we keep it. It was wonderful to see Pecco today and reminisce about our two years together.

“He may be in Moto2 now, but he will always be a part of the Mahindra family, our history, and we certainly have someone to cheer for in the intermediate class now!

Bagnaia added: “It was fantastic to see my bike again. I have to say thank you to Mahindra Racing, Mufaddal and the team for allowing me to always keep it in my collection.

“We had some great races together during the two years but nothing will beat Assen in my memory.

“Crossing the line in first was unbelievable, knowing I had taken my first victory but then to see everyone from Mahindra and Aspar in Parc Ferme, the emotion, it was all so special.

Bagnai has carried on his success since graduating to Moto2, scoring his first podium in the category at Jerez.