P1racenews AI automatic summary:
One of the three key figures behind Ducati’s return to the top of MotoGP is moving to a new motocross-based role
The launch of Ducati’s new motocross project for 2024 will have a major impact on its MotoGP team, as veteran Ducati Corse sporting director Paolo Ciabatti will be leaving to become the general manager of the new off-road division. Ducati will compete in the Italian motocross championship next year before entering the premier MXGP series in 2025. Ciabatti has been a key figure at Ducati since 2014 and has worked closely with chief engineer Gigi Dall’Igna and team manager Davide Tardozzi. He will be replaced by current marketing and sponsorship director Mauro Grassilli, who will also take on the role of sporting director. Ciabatti will continue to coordinate Ducati’s sporting activities in national production racing championships in various countries, including the US and Italy. Although Ciabatti’s departure may impact negotiations for future contracts, his continued involvement with Ducati’s racing efforts will provide guidance to Grassilli.
