Further proof, if proof were needed, that Ducati's financial affairs are in a less than perfect state comes with the news that the manufacturer has decided to opt out of the AMA Superbike Championship from next year.
Ducati has been struggling to stay in contention in the American series over the past few seasons, winning only five races in three years. Arguably due to the technical rules of AMA, which compel twin-cylinder bikes to retain more standard parts than in World Superbikes, the Ducati 999s have found it hard to keep pace with the dominant GSX-R1000s. This is despite gaining permission, since round seven, to use the traction control that has been so beneficial in BSB and WSB. Ducati's highest-placed rider in AMA this season is Britain's own Neil Hodgson, who currently lies in fifth. Whether it was man or machine not making the grade, the decision is final.
Michael Lock, CEO of Ducati North America, commented: “We remain a very strong and committed supporter of the AMA and, when our bikes will be allowed to participate with a fair chance of challenging for the final championship win, we expect to be racing competitively again very soon in the AMA Superbike series.”