Shell and Ducati will continue in a technical partnership until at least the end of 2022 the Dutch-British Olil and Gas company has announced.
The two parties have been involved in their long-standing partnership across Ducati’s World Superbike and MotoGP activities since 1999 and 2003 respectively, with the new deal ensuring they will continue to work together for at least the next three years.
The new-for-2019 Panigale V4-R superbike and all MotoGP prototype machinery for the foreseeable future will continue to utilise Shells Advance Engine Oil as well as its V-Power fuel, while all of the Bologna-based manufacturer’s road bikes will leave the factory containing lubricants designed by Shell.
“Shell is excited to renew this historical relationship for another three years,” said Shell General Manager Vicky Boiten-Lee.
“The renewal of this Technical Partnership with Ducati will be invaluable to the continued innovation and development of Shell Advance and Shell V-Power, using our learning’s from the racetrack and providing them to bikers all over the world through our high performing and efficient products.
“This deal represents a clear commitment from Shell to Ducati and the Moto GP and World Superbike Series moving forward. We are proud to contribute to Ducati’s continued success, and look forward to celebrating many more race wins by their side.”
Ducati have won ten World Superbike manufacturers titles as well as seven riders championships powered by Shell lubricants since 1999, with legendry pilots such as four-time World Superbike champion Carl Fogarty and triple champion Troy Bayliss having delivered them.
The Italian constructor also secured the 2007 riders and manufacturer’s MotoGP titles together with Shell courtesy of double premier class champion Casey Stoner, with 49 victories so far having been achieved since 2003.
“The historical partnership between Shell and Ducati has been important in propelling Ducati to new levels of success over the last 20 years,” added Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali.
“Shell’s race formulations of Shell Advance and Shell V-Power have been essential in maximising the continued performance and efficiency of our Ducati engine.
“We’re glad to see the partnership extended in order to continue one of the strongest relationships in motorcycle racing history as well as a strong collaboration on our road bike development.”
