In a groundbreaking development that has sent ripples through the motorsports community, sources close to the situation have confirmed that German motocross star Ken Roczen has finalized a deal to join Ducati for the 2026 AMA Supercross season. This move marks Ducati’s ambitious entry into the competitive world of American Supercross, with Roczen poised to lead their charge.
Ken Roczen’s Career Evolution
Ken Roczen, renowned for his exceptional skills and resilience on the track, has been a prominent figure in motocross and Supercross for over a decade. In May 2023, Roczen announced his commitment to the World Supercross Championship (WSX) for three years, transitioning to a supercross specialist to extend his career and focus on disciplines that align with his strengths.
In November 2024, Roczen re-signed with Suzuki to compete in the 2025 SuperMotocross World Championship aboard the Suzuki RM-Z450, expressing enthusiasm about continuing his relationship with the team and striving for podium finishes.
Ducati’s Strategic Shift
Ducati’s decision to enter the AMA Supercross arena has been a topic of discussion since late 2024. Reports from November 2024 suggested that Roczen was in negotiations to sign with Ducati for the 2026 season, marking the brand’s debut in American Supercross. This move was anticipated to enhance Ducati’s competitiveness and broaden its audience, given Roczen’s substantial fan following.
However, as of December 2024, Ducati’s plans remained unconfirmed. Paolo Ciabatti, General Manager of Ducati Off-Road, stated that while Supercross participation was in the plans, specifics were undecided, including the timeline for entry and team collaborations.
The Confirmed Deal
Recent developments have now confirmed that Roczen’s transition to Ducati is finalized. Multiple sources indicate that Roczen has agreed to a significant contract with Ducati, reportedly valued at $97.5 million, to leave the AMA Supercross series and join a new international racing circuit. This contract includes both racing and endorsement opportunities, providing Roczen with a platform to compete in a global championship aimed at expanding fan engagement and offering lucrative prize money.
Roczen’s decision to join Ducati aligns with his career objectives and the brand’s strategic goals. The partnership is expected to bring fresh competition and international exposure, benefiting both Roczen’s career and Ducati’s marketing initiatives.
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 AMA Supercross season approaches, all eyes will be on Roczen and Ducati’s debut. Fans and industry insiders eagerly anticipate how this collaboration will influence the competitive landscape, with expectations that it will invigorate the sport and attract a broader audience. The synergy between Roczen’s expertise and Ducati’s engineering prowess sets the stage for a thrilling new chapter in Supercross history.
For now, the motorsports community watches closely, awaiting further announcements and developments as Roczen and Ducati prepare to make their mark in the upcoming season.
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