Ducati has once again turned to the dramatic backdrop of the Dolomites to launch its MotoGP season, hosting its now-traditional Campioni in Pista event in Madonna di Campiglio as the official opening chapter of its 2026 campaign. Press: Ducati Australia & New Zealand.

Now in its fourth consecutive year, the alpine showcase has become a signature moment on Ducati’s racing calendar.

The centrepiece of the event was the unveiling of the 2026 Ducati Desmosedici GP, presented in a special Rosso Centenario colour scheme marking 100 years of Ducati history. The deep red finish, paired with bold white striping across the front intake, draws inspiration from the brand’s earliest racing machines while signalling the importance of the milestone season ahead.

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On track, Ducati will again field one of the strongest rider pairings in the MotoGP paddock, with Marc Márquez and Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia leading the factory Ducati Lenovo Team. Márquez enters the season as the reigning World Champion, while Bagnaia remains the most successful MotoGP rider in Ducati’s history. The duo will begin their title push when the 2026 championship gets underway at the Thai Grand Prix on March 1.

Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali described Campioni in Pista as far more than a conventional team presentation, emphasising its role in reinforcing the shared values behind Ducati’s racing success. He said the event has become a symbolic gathering for the brand, bringing together riders, engineers, partners and fans to celebrate not just the MotoGP project, but the wider Ducati community and the passion that underpins it.

Fresh from his return to full fitness following shoulder surgery, Márquez made it clear that his competitive edge remains undiminished heading into the new season. Speaking at the launch, the eight-time world champion said passion remains the driving force behind his pursuit of victory, stressing that daily commitment and hard work are central to his motivation as he targets further success at the sport’s highest level.

Bagnaia also struck a confident tone, expressing strong belief in Ducati’s 2026 package. Reflecting on his early impressions of the new Desmosedici, the Italian rider suggested it represents the best machine he has ridden in several seasons, and reaffirmed his determination to return to consistent title contention after a challenging 2025 campaign.

Beyond the race team itself, the Madonna di Campiglio event highlighted Ducati’s long-standing relationships with its commercial and regional partners. Local organisers described Campioni in Pista as a celebration that blends elite motorsport with fan engagement, reinforcing Ducati’s connection to the region while offering supporters a unique window into the world of MotoGP.

As Ducati celebrates a century of two-wheeled innovation and racing success, the 2026 MotoGP season shapes up as both a tribute to the past and a statement of intent for the future. With proven champions, a striking new Desmosedici and momentum firmly on its side, the Italian manufacturer enters the new year focused on adding yet more victories to its already formidable record.

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