WorldSBK, Ducati Aruba presentation: a two-pronged title attempt

Although the season may have already began a few weeks ago for the Ducati Aruba team, we all know the year only really gets going after the traditional presentation, which, for the Borgo Panigale squad, took place today. The unveiling took place virtually due to the ongoing pandemic.

First to take to the stage was Stefano Cecconi, Team Principal. “Since 2015, we have officially represented Ducati in the Superbike World Championship, and our results have grown steadily to the second and third place obtained last season. Our goal is to take that final step forward to reach the target we have set ourselves”.

Cecconi also welcomes back Michael Rinaldi, the main new addition to this year’s Ducati team. “Rinaldi has had a long journey, including winning the Superstock 1000 title. It is a great satisfaction for us to see him in the factory team, and in light of his extremely convincing season with a private team in 2020, we hope he can do even better this year”.  

In the words of the riders

Italian rider Michael Rinaldi is aware that he now has the greatest opportunity of his career so far: “2020 will always be a beautiful memory. However, the goals are higher now, and I will work hard to achieve great results. Returning to the team is like coming home to my family, it’s a honour and means that the path we have taken has been positive. I'll do everything I can to make sure the fans have fun during the 2021 season”. 

Then how can we forget Scott Redding who, having impressed us all during his debut season, now has clear goals ahead of the new season: “The great support I received from Ducati was very important last year, and means I’ll give my best to make that step that we missed in 2020. Last season I had the opportunity to gain a lot of experience with the bike and the championship. This will allow me to start on an equal footing with my competitors in 2021. I think my strength lies in my mentality, and I’ll be chasing the title all the way.”

High-level encouragement

Ducati Corse management was also on hand to offer their encouragement, starting with CEO Claudio Domenicali. “The Panigale V4 R is absolutely one of the closest road bikes to a real racing bike. There is a strong union with Aruba.it, our long-standing partner, and a very important technological collaboration. As for our riders, they are true ambassadors of our brand and we look forward to the start of the 2021 season with optimism."

A sentiment echoed by Gigi Dall’Igna, the man behind all the Ducatis that take to the world’s racetracks. “The 2020 season has been exciting, and to see both of our riders fighting for top positions is a source of great satisfaction and pride for all of Ducati Corse. This year, with Scott and Michael, I'm sure we'll be very competitive and that we'll be able to take another step forward and further improve our bikes' performance”.

Translated by Heather Watson

SBK, Go Eleven throws down the gauntlet: “This blue bike needs to beat the red Ducatis”