The Borgo Panigale manufacturer has made a major strategic move in the international motorcycle racing transfer market by securing an experienced rider for the production-based world championship. Gigi Dall’Igna as Ducati general manager stated that the arrival of Franco Morbidelli will bring an extremely valuable wealth of experience to the factory squad in WorldSBK starting next season in 2027.
This official announcement was released on Monday morning following the Japanese Grand Prix weekend, where Ducati finally confirmed that the three-time premier class race winner will join the squad's factory WorldSBK team next year. Morbidelli has been part of the Ducati stable since 2024 when he moved from Yamaha to the Pramac squad, before stepping over to VR46 last season.
In the battle for the coveted seat, the Italian rider won out over Moto2 frontrunner Manu Gonzalez. The factory Ducati WorldSBK seat was left vacant by Nicolo Bulega who is heading to the MotoGP paddock, creating a brand new dynamic within the factory garage.
The timing of Morbidelli's step is opportune, with the championship switching to Michelin rubber for 2027. Commenting on the move, Dall’Igna believes the rider's understanding of how Ducati works will be hugely beneficial to the brand upon the series’ technical shake-up.
“We are very happy to welcome Franco to the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati family,” Dall’Igna said. He added that Franco is a very talented rider who has shown speed, technical sensitivity, and the ability to adapt at the highest levels. After many years spent in MotoGP, he brings an extremely valuable wealth of experience.
Dall’Igna is convinced the move will be supported by deep knowledge of the Ducati environment and working methods, especially given new technical challenges awaiting in 2027. Together with Aruba.it Racing, they have built a winning project and believe Franco has all qualities to keep it at the top. Meanwhile, Ducati has dominated WorldSBK in 2026, while rival brands like Miguel Oliveira and Brad Binder prepare for BMW.
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Franco Morbidelli resmi bergabung dengan tim Aruba.it Ducati untuk menghadapi kompetisi WorldSBK musim 2027 setelah sembilan tahun berkarier di MotoGP.
Franco Morbidelli resmi pindah ke WorldSBK bersama Aruba.it Ducati untuk musim 2027, bertukar kursi dengan juara dunia Nicolo Bulega.
WorldSBK 2027 hadirkan kejutan: Valencia kembali setelah 17 tahun dan debut di Shanghai, China. Simak kalender sementara lengkapnya di sini.
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