Ducati, a brand that is synonymous with circuit racing, has announced that it is now going to venture out into the dirt.

The Italian manufacturer said it has been working for two years on a prototype that will make its debut at the 2024 Italian Motocross Championship.

This is a multi-year project that will see the creation of a complete range of off-road engines and motorcycles. These models will gradually become part of the Ducati stable, starting in the motocross segment.

The Bologna-based company has signed an agreement with nine-time Motocross World Champion Antonio Cairoli as a high-performance test rider for the new project. Thanks to his talent, speed and experience, he will give important input for the development of the new motorcycle.

“I am extremely happy to become part of the universe of Ducati, which has always been a symbol of Italian spirit throughout the world, and to begin this exciting new adventure, in an all-Italian project," Cairoli said. 

"Being able to make my contribution to the development of the Borgo Panigale motocross bike is a dream come true and a source of great pride for me” he added.

Meanwhile, Ducati Motor Holding CEO Claudio Domenicali said this motocross bike was possible thanks to the company's "excellent results in recent years."

“A totally new world for Ducati in which we want to bring our talent in designing lightweight motorcycles, with excellent components and high performance and - above all - which can excite more and more motorcyclists," he added.

Ducati has also signed a multi-year agreement with Maddii Racing, one of the most experienced teams in the motocross paddock.

It will be the reference structure for the Italian marque's motocross racing activities and will take part in the 2024 Italian Motocross Championship with Alessandro Lupino, eight-time Italian Champion and 2021 MXoN winner, also contracted to Ducati as racing and test rider.

Ducati is yet to share images of its prototype motocross bike. How do you think it would look?

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