Ducati may have had a miserable time in
MotoGP for the past two seasons, but company CEO Gabriele Del Torchio stressed that the off-track developments have been far more positive and that the factory will 'never give up' in its quest for sporting success.
“Last year was very important for Ducati. We became part of the Audi group, and we set new records in terms of profits, sales and production. We opened up new markets and achieved a significant share in those markets,” said Del Torchio, speaking during this week's Wrooom Press Ski Meeting.
“It wasn't as positive from a sporting point of view, but our company's motto is 'Never give up', and with the ability to react that has always been one of our characteristics, we face 2013 with a new organisation, ready to take to the track.”
Del Torchio then spoke about some of the changes made at Ducati, following its winless partnership with seven time
MotoGP champion Valentino Rossi.
“Today I have the pleasure of welcoming Bernhard Gobmeier, who was recently appointed to run Ducati Corse. With his coordination and cooperation, I'm confident that we'll do very well," he said.
“Bernhard takes the place of Filippo Preziosi, who has my sincere thanks for the work he has carried out over the last twelve years, and who now has an important new role in Ducati.
“Furthermore, Paolo Ciabatti, who returns to Ducati after some years away, has been assigned to run the
MotoGP project alongside team manager Vittoriano Guareschi.
“Welcome also to our riders, new addition
Andrea Dovizioso and the returning Nicky Hayden, who together represent a formidable line-up that gives us confidence as we look to the future.”