Ducati Corse stands as one of the most dominant forces in modern MotoGP racing, transforming from a struggling newcomer into the series’ most successful manufacturer. The Italian racing division has revolutionized premier-class motorcycle racing through innovative engineering and strategic excellence. Ducati Corse currently operates as the Ducati Lenovo Team and has won multiple riders’ championships, constructors’ titles, and team championships since entering MotoGP in 2003.
The Bologna-based manufacturer has built an impressive legacy through technical innovation and rider development. Their Desmosedici motorcycles have become the benchmark for MotoGP performance, particularly in the aerodynamics-focused era of the sport. With riders like Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez leading their current lineup, Ducati continues to push the boundaries of motorcycle racing technology.
From their early struggles to their current position as championship contenders, Ducati Corse has established itself as a powerhouse that consistently challenges for race wins and titles. The team’s evolution from a single-bike operation to a multi-team constructor supplying motorcycles across the MotoGP grid demonstrates their commitment to excellence and innovation in motorcycle racing.
Key Takeaways
- Ducati Corse entered MotoGP in 2003 and has since become the most successful manufacturer in the modern era
- The team has won multiple championships including riders’ titles with Casey Stoner and Francesco Bagnaia
- Ducati’s technical innovations, particularly in aerodynamics and the Desmosedici motorcycle platform, have revolutionized MotoGP racing
Ducati Corse in MotoGP: An Overview
Ducati Corse operates as the racing division of Ducati Motor Holding with a clear management structure led by General Manager Luigi Dall’Igna. The team has secured multiple championships since 2007 and serves as both a factory competitor and motorcycle constructor in the MotoGP World Championship.
Organizational Structure
Ducati Corse currently competes as the Ducati Lenovo Team after forming a title partnership with Lenovo in February 2021. The team operates from their base in Borgo Panigale, Bologna, Italy.
The leadership hierarchy includes four key Italian figures:
| Position | Name | Since |
|---|---|---|
| General Manager | Luigi Dall’Igna | 2013 |
| Sporting Director | Mauro Grassilli | 2023 |
| Technical Director | Davide Barana | 2018 |
| Team Manager | Davide Tardozzi | 2014 |
For the 2025 season, Ducati employs Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez as their factory riders. Bagnaia joined the factory team in 2021 after two years with satellite team Pramac. Marquez joined Ducati in 2025 after one season at Gresini.
Competitive Legacy
Ducati first entered MotoGP in 2003 after a 31-year absence from the premier class. Loris Capirossi delivered their first race victory at the 2003 Grand Prix of Catalunya.
Riders’ Championships:
- 2007: Casey Stoner (367 points)
- 2022: Francesco Bagnaia (265 points)
- 2023: Francesco Bagnaia (467 points)
The team waited 14 years between their first and second teams’ titles. Ducati’s success has been particularly strong in the modern aero-dominant era, mastering aerodynamic technology faster than competitors.
Casey Stoner and the Desmosedici GP7 achieved legendary status by winning the 2007 MotoGP world title. This victory came shortly after Ducati changed ownership from TPG Group to Investindustrial in 2006.
Ducati’s Role in the MotoGP World Championship
Ducati Corse functions as one of five constructors in the 2025 MotoGP championship. They supply motorcycles to their factory team plus satellite teams Gresini and VR46 Racing Team.
The factory riders and one VR46 rider receive the latest Desmosedici GP25 bikes. Gresini uses year-old GP24 motorcycles. The GP25 features a 90-degree V4 1,000cc engine with 22L fuel capacity.
Recent Constructors’ Championships:
- 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
Ducati has won over 300 victories across various racing categories. Their constructors’ titles count points from their best-placed rider regardless of team affiliation. This system allows Ducati to benefit from their strong satellite team performance in the championship standings.
History of Ducati Corse in MotoGP
Ducati Corse entered MotoGP in 2003 following rule changes that favored four-stroke engines, building from their Superbike success. The Italian manufacturer achieved their first world championship in 2007 with Casey Stoner and has evolved into MotoGP’s most represented brand with multiple satellite teams.
Founding and Early Involvement
Ducati Corse was founded in 1999 as the official racing division of Ducati Motor Holding. The company initially focused on Superbike racing before expanding into premier class motorcycle racing.
When MotoGP technical rules changed in 2002 to prioritize four-stroke 990cc engines, Ducati decided to enter MotoGP in 2003. This marked their return to the premier class after years of dominating Superbike competition.
The debut season featured riders Troy Bayliss and Loris Capirossi. Capirossi reached the podium in his debut race at Suzuka and secured Ducati’s first MotoGP victory at the Catalan Grand Prix in Barcelona.
The early years established Ducati as a competitive force. Their Desmosedici bike showed immediate promise with podium finishes and race wins in their inaugural season.
Key Milestones and Breakthroughs
Casey Stoner and the Desmosedici GP7 earned legendary status by winning the 2007 MotoGP world title. This championship represented Ducati’s first premier class world championship and validated their MotoGP program.
The 2007 season breakthrough came after Ducati’s ownership changed from TPG Group to Investindustrial in 2006. Stoner’s aggressive riding style perfectly matched the Desmosedici’s characteristics.
Major Championship Victories:
- 2007: Casey Stoner (Riders’ Championship)
- 2022: Francesco Bagnaia (Riders’ Championship)
- 2023: Francesco Bagnaia (Riders’ Championship)
Francesco Bagnaia joined Ducati Corse in 2019 and became world champion in 2022 and 2023. His back-to-back titles marked Ducati’s return to championship-winning form after a 15-year gap.
Evolution of the Team
Ducati Corse became a division of Ducati Motor Holding following the 2006 ownership change. The team maintained its base in Bologna while expanding its technical capabilities.
The team currently operates as the Ducati Lenovo Team after forming a title partnership in February 2021. This sponsorship deal reflected Ducati’s growing commercial success in MotoGP.
Today, Ducati employs about 100 people in their racing operations. The company joined the Audi-Volkswagen Group in 2012, providing additional resources and technical expertise.
Ducati has become the manufacturer with the most bikes racing in MotoGP. Their satellite teams include VR46 Racing Team and Gresini Racing, expanding their grid presence significantly.
Significant Riders and Personalities
Casey Stoner remains Ducati’s most successful early rider, delivering their breakthrough championship in 2007. His fearless riding style and technical feedback helped develop the Desmosedici into a race-winning machine.
Francesco Bagnaia emerged as Ducati’s modern champion after joining from Pramac Racing. His meticulous approach and consistency delivered consecutive world championships in 2022 and 2023.
Notable Ducati MotoGP Riders:
- Casey Stoner (2007-2010)
- Loris Capirossi (2003-2006)
- Andrea Dovizioso (2013-2020)
- Francesco Bagnaia (2019-present)
Marc Márquez joined Ducati for 2025, bringing eight world championships to the Italian manufacturer. His partnership with Bagnaia creates one of MotoGP’s strongest rider lineups.
Luigi Dall’Igna serves as General Manager, leading Ducati’s technical development since 2014. His engineering expertise transformed Ducati into MotoGP’s dominant manufacturer with multiple championship-winning bikes across different teams.
Ducati Lenovo Team: The Present Force
The Ducati Lenovo Team stands as one of MotoGP’s dominant forces, featuring world champion talent and cutting-edge technology partnerships. The team combines proven championship-winning riders with advanced data analytics and strategic leadership to maintain their competitive edge.
Current Rider Lineup and Profiles
The 2025 season brings a powerful rider combination to the factory Ducati squad. Francesco Bagnaia returns as the team’s established star, carrying number 63 after his back-to-back world championships.
Marc Marquez officially joined the Ducati Lenovo Team wearing Ducati Red at the 2025 team launch in Madonna di Campiglio. The eight-time World Champion signed a two-year agreement that runs through 2026.
Marquez replaced Enea Bastianini after adapting quickly to the Desmosedici GP during his time with Gresini Racing. His addition creates a formidable partnership with Bagnaia.
Current Lineup:
- Francesco Bagnaia – Two-time MotoGP World Champion (2022, 2023)
- Marc Marquez – Eight-time World Champion across all classes
The duo represents 11 combined world titles between them. This experience level provides the team with unmatched championship knowledge and race-winning capability.
Recent Performance and Achievements
Ducati Corse has established itself as the premier force in modern MotoGP. The team secured consecutive riders’ championships through Francesco Bagnaia’s dominant 2022 and 2023 campaigns.
The partnership with Lenovo has transformed the team’s technical approach. Lenovo’s advanced workstation technology enables the creation of digital twins of racecourses, using 200GB of data per circuit for detailed virtual track mapping.
This data-driven approach gives riders precise insights into track conditions and optimal racing lines. The predictive AI technology helps optimize performance while remaining within MotoGP regulations.
Key Recent Achievements:
- Back-to-back riders’ championships (2022-2023)
- Multiple constructors’ titles
- Consistent podium performances across multiple seasons
- Leading motorcycle manufacturer in premier class victories
The team’s technical innovations have set new standards for data utilization in motorcycle racing. Their success demonstrates how technology partnerships can enhance traditional racing expertise.
Team Management and Leadership
Luigi Dall’Igna serves as General Manager of Ducati Corse, overseeing the team’s technical direction and strategic decisions. His leadership has guided the team through their most successful period in MotoGP.
Dall’Igna made the strategic decision to bring Marquez into the factory team. He praised both departing riders Bastianini and Jorge Martin while expressing confidence in the new rider combination.
The organizational structure combines Italian racing heritage with modern corporate partnerships. Lenovo’s involvement extends beyond simple sponsorship to active technical collaboration.
Leadership Structure:
- Luigi Dall’Igna – General Manager, Ducati Corse
- Technical team – Focused on Desmosedici GP development
- Lenovo partnership – Advanced data analytics and computing support
The management philosophy emphasizes continuous development and technological advancement. This approach has maintained Ducati’s competitive position against manufacturers like Yamaha, Honda, and KTM.
Team leadership balances rider talent development with cutting-edge engineering solutions. Their success stems from integrating traditional racing knowledge with modern data science capabilities.
Desmosedici GP: Technical Innovation
The Desmosedici GP25 represents the latest evolution in Ducati’s MotoGP technology, featuring a 90-degree V4 engine and advanced aerodynamics. The platform combines cutting-edge electronics with refined chassis design to deliver championship-level performance.
Desmosedici GP25 Development
The Desmosedici GP25 emerged as neither a pure leap forward nor a simple copy of its predecessor. Development focused on balancing innovation with proven technology from previous models.
Ducati Corse director Gigi Dall’Igna positioned the GP25 as a championship contender for the 2025 season. Testing at Sepang revealed the bike’s unique characteristics compared to the GP24.
The motorcycle oscillates between innovation and returning to established engineering principles. Marc Marquez adapted well to the GP25 during testing. Pecco Bagnaia requested the pure GP24 setup for certain circuits, highlighting the bike’s evolving nature.
Key Development Features:
- Bold design with cutting-edge engineering
- Testing refinements between Sepang and Buriram
- Rider-specific adjustment capabilities
Engine and Aerodynamics
The Desmosedici GP features a 90-degree V4 engine with liquid cooling and four-stroke configuration. This 1,000cc powerplant delivers the performance needed for MotoGP competition.
Aerodynamic innovations include winglets and optimized fairings that improve speed and cornering stability. These elements set new performance standards in the championship.
The aerodynamic package reduces drag while increasing downforce at high speeds. Winglets provide stability during braking and cornering phases. The fairing design channels airflow efficiently around the rider and motorcycle.
Engine Specifications:
- Configuration: 90-degree V4
- Cooling: Liquid-cooled system
- Displacement: 1,000cc
- Type: Four-stroke
Chassis and Electronics
The Desmosedici GP chassis integrates advanced materials with proven geometry for optimal handling. Carbon fiber components reduce weight while maintaining structural integrity.
Advanced electronics include traction control and sophisticated data processing systems. These technologies help riders extract maximum performance from the motorcycle.
AI and data processing capabilities help Ducati Corse reduce lap times by approximately 3 seconds per race. The electronic systems continuously adapt to track conditions and rider inputs.
The chassis allows for rider-specific adjustments to suit different riding styles. Suspension components work with the electronics to provide optimal grip and stability. Data collection systems provide real-time feedback to engineers and riders.
Performance and Championship Results
Ducati Corse has achieved remarkable success in MotoGP with multiple championship titles and over 100 race victories. The team has dominated recent seasons while also maintaining a strong presence in Superbike racing across different championship series.
MotoGP Race Wins and Podiums
Ducati reached 100 MotoGP victories at the 2024 Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix. This milestone represents decades of racing excellence in the premier motorcycle racing class.
Casey Stoner delivered Ducati’s breakthrough championship in 2007. The Australian won 10 races to secure Ducati’s first MotoGP title and remained the only Ducati rider to win races from 2008 to 2016.
Recent seasons have shown Ducati’s dominance returning. In 2024, Ducati riders won 13 out of 14 Grand Prix races. Francesco Bagnaia led with 7 victories, while Jorge Martin, Enea Bastianini, and Marc Marquez each contributed 2 wins.
The 2024 season featured an all-Ducati top five finish at Misano. This achievement highlighted the manufacturer’s current technical superiority across multiple teams.
World Championship Titles Overview
Ducati has secured the Constructors’ World Championship for five consecutive years through 2024. The Italian manufacturer earned 500 points with a 261-point advantage over second-place KTM.
2024 Constructor Standings:
- Ducati: 500 points
- KTM: 239 points
- Aprilia: 234 points
- Yamaha: 84 points
- Honda: 42 points
Three Ducati teams locked out the top three positions in the Team Championship. Ducati Lenovo Team led the standings ahead of Prima Pramac Racing and Gresini Racing MotoGP.
The riders’ championship remained competitive despite Ducati’s dominance. Martin, Bagnaia, Bastianini, and Marquez all stayed in mathematical contention for the title throughout the 2024 season.
Impact on Superbike World Championship
Ducati Corse manages factory teams across multiple racing series including Superbike and Supersport world championships. The racing division coordinates efforts between MotoGP and production-based racing categories.
Ducati’s success in Superbike racing has contributed to over 300 total racing victories across all championships. The experience gained in Superbike competition helps develop technology that transfers to MotoGP efforts.
The Panigale V4 serves as Ducati’s primary Superbike platform. Technology developed for this model often influences MotoGP development and vice versa.
Ducati’s multi-series approach allows the company to test different technical solutions. Success in both prototype and production-based racing strengthens the overall racing program.
Ducati Corse’s Legacy and Impact
Ducati Corse has shaped modern motorcycle racing through technical innovation and competition excellence. The factory’s Bologna location has become central to racing culture, while strategic partnerships have expanded the brand’s influence across motorsport.
Influence on Motorcycle Racing
Ducati Corse transformed MotoGP through aerodynamic innovation and V4 engine technology. The team mastered winglet design faster than competitors, leading to dominance in the current aero-heavy era.
Casey Stoner’s 2007 championship victory with the Desmosedici GP7 marked Ducati’s first premier class title. This breakthrough came after a 31-year absence from the top racing category.
Francesco Bagnaia’s back-to-back championships in 2022 and 2023 proved Ducati’s sustained excellence. The Italian rider demonstrated the Desmosedici’s superior performance across different track conditions.
Recent Championship Success:
- 2020-2024: Six consecutive constructors’ titles
- 2021, 2022, 2024: Teams’ championships
- Over 300 total racing victories across all categories
Ducati’s technical leadership influences bike development industry-wide. Competitors study Ducati’s aerodynamic solutions and electronics systems for their own programs.
Borgo Panigale and the Spirit of Bologna
The Borgo Panigale factory serves as Ducati Corse’s headquarters in Bologna, Italy. This facility houses both racing operations and road bike production under one roof.
Ducati Motor Holding operates from the same Bologna location since 1926. The factory originally produced radios before shifting to motorcycles after World War II.
Factory Operations:
- Racing bike development and assembly
- Road motorcycle production
- Ducati museum and visitor center
- Engineering and design departments
The “Bologna Bullets” nickname reflects the factory’s local identity. This connection to Bologna creates strong ties between the racing team and Italian motorcycle culture.
About 100 people work directly on Ducati’s racing programs. These engineers and technicians develop technology that flows from MotoGP bikes to consumer models.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The Ducati Lenovo Team partnership began in February 2021 when Lenovo increased sponsorship investment. This collaboration brings advanced computing technology to race bike development.
Ducati supplies motorcycles to multiple MotoGP teams beyond the factory squad. Gresini and VR46 Racing Team compete with Ducati machinery in satellite operations.
Current MotoGP Partnerships (2025):
- Factory Team: Ducati Lenovo Team (GP25 bikes)
- Satellite Teams: Gresini (GP24 bikes), VR46 (GP25 bikes)
- Title Sponsor: Lenovo computers and technology
Data analysis partnerships include artificial intelligence systems for performance optimization. Sixty percent of data collection focuses on tire performance and wear patterns.
Ducati Corse collaborates with component suppliers for specialized racing parts. These relationships ensure access to cutting-edge materials and manufacturing techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ducati Corse’s MotoGP operations involve specific leadership roles, rider lineups, and technical innovations. The team has evolved significantly since joining MotoGP in 2003, with notable changes in management structure and bike technology.
Who is the current team manager for Ducati in MotoGP?
Davide Tardozzi serves as the team manager for Ducati Corse in MotoGP. He has held this position since 2014.
The team operates under a structured leadership hierarchy. Luigi Dall’Igna works as the general manager since 2013, while Mauro Grassilli serves as sporting director since 2023.
Davide Barana holds the technical director role since 2018. All four key leadership positions are filled by Italian personnel.
Which riders are representing Ducati Corse in the MotoGP 2025 season?
Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez represent Ducati Corse as their full-time race riders in the 2025 MotoGP season. This marks a significant change in the team’s rider lineup.
Bagnaia joined the factory Ducati team in 2021. He previously spent two seasons with the satellite Pramac team before moving to the factory squad.
Marquez joined Ducati in 2025 after one season at Gresini. His move to Ducati represents a major shift in the MotoGP rider market.
Can you provide a history of key riders who have raced for Ducati in MotoGP?
Casey Stoner delivered Ducati’s first MotoGP championship success in 2007. He won the riders’ title with 367 points that season.
Loris Capirossi gave Ducati their first MotoGP race win at the 2003 Grand Prix of Catalunya in round six. This victory came during Ducati’s debut MotoGP season.
Francesco Bagnaia brought Ducati back to championship glory. He won consecutive riders’ titles in 2022 and 2023 with 265 and 467 points respectively.
Jack Miller partnered with Bagnaia from 2021-2022. He contributed significantly to Ducati’s teams’ championship victories during those seasons.
What is the Ducati Lenovo Team’s strategy for competitive racing in MotoGP?
Ducati excels in the current aero-dominated era of MotoGP racing. The team mastered the increased importance of aerodynamic wings faster than competitors.
The manufacturer supplies bikes to multiple teams including Gresini and VR46 Racing Team. This strategy allows Ducati to gather more data and increase their presence on the grid.
Only factory Ducati riders and one VR46 rider receive full factory-spec Desmosedici GP25 bikes. Gresini teams use year-old GP24 motorcycles.
How much does a Ducati Desmosedici GP bike cost?
The exact cost of a Ducati Desmosedici GP bike is not publicly disclosed by Ducati Corse. MotoGP manufacturers typically keep pricing information confidential for their factory racing machines.
These bikes are not available for public purchase. They are exclusively built for MotoGP competition and leased to satellite teams when provided.
The cost involves significant research and development expenses. Each bike contains over 2,000 specialized racing components designed specifically for MotoGP competition.
What technical advancements has Ducati introduced in their MotoGP bikes for the current season?
The Ducati Desmosedici GP25 runs a 90-degree V4 1,000cc engine with a 22-liter fuel capacity. This four-stroke motorcycle was specifically created for the 2025 MotoGP season.
Ducati uses Seamless technology in their MotoGP bikes. This system enables gear changing in just 9 milliseconds during racing conditions.
The chassis design focuses specifically on racing performance. Each bike contains 2,060 parts mounted on a racing-specific chassis engineered for MotoGP competition.
