Ducati unveiled its updated 2020 MotoGP colour scheme at its launch event in Bologna, displaying a mildly refreshed colour scheme that features greater levels of black.
Vice champion of the last three seasons Andrea Dovizioso and team-mate Danilo Petrucci-entering their eighth and sophomore campaigns with Ducati respectively- were on hand to pull the covers off the Desmosedici GP20.
The pair will debut the GP20’s refreshed paint scheme during the first test of ’20, held at Sepang in early Feburary.
Dovizioso out-lined a title tilt as his main goal heading into the new season, but is anticipating the likes of Yamaha and Suzuki to prove a sterner challenge early on.
“2019 was interesting and made us understand a few aspects that will help us to improve and grow in 2020,” said Dovizioso.
“Last year we finished as runner-up for the third consecutive time behind Marc Màrquez, a rider that for sure made the difference last year, but we also did our best managing well our potential.
“Every year has its own story, and it is not easy to predict what will happen in 2020. Our goal is clear; we want to challenge for the title again.
“Both Ducati and I are working hard to be back stronger than ever before. Compared to last year, I expect to find more competitive rivals, but we have also grown a lot, and I am confident that we will be able to continue with our positive trend”.
Petrucci meanwhile will be looking to put his latter ’19 struggles firmly behind him heading into the new decade, the one-time victor looking to make a return to the top step of the podium.
“2019 was positive for me, despite a few difficulties towards the end of the year,” said Petrucci.
It was my best season in MotoGP in terms of results. I took my first win in Mugello in a fantastic race in front of my home crowd and all the Ducati fans.
“This result boosts my confidence and motivates me to improve even more this year. I know our rivals will be back stronger this year, but that counts for me too.
“I have been improving and growing each season, and this year I want to confirm my results and make further steps forward compared to last year”.
All eyes will be on Petrucci during the upcoming campaign as he endeavours to earn a further extension to his factory stint at Ducati, with Pramac Ducati’s Jack Miller-who will also wade into battle with a GP20 this year- and new Avintia signing Johann Zarco looking to wrestle away the plum seat.
