Michele Pirro Remains a Ducati Test Rider

Ducati extends its partnership with Michele Pirro as a test rider for three more years.

Ducati Corse announced the contract renewal of Michele Pirro as their esteemed test rider. This agreement extends Pirro’s tenure with Ducati for another three years, solidifying his crucial role in developing the Desmosedici GP and other Ducati projects. With his extensive experience and expertise, Pirro has played a significant part in the brand’s success over the past eleven years.

Michele Pirro, a native of San Giovanni Rotondo and a nine-time Italian Champion, has been instrumental in refining the performance of the Desmosedici GP. His contributions have greatly influenced the continuous evolution of Ducati’s MotoGP machine, helping the team stay competitive and maintain its dominating position on the grid.

Pirro’s involvement in developing the Ducati MotoE, which debuted at Le Mans in the FIM MotoE World Championship, further demonstrates his versatility and dedication. In addition, Michele has showcased his racing prowess in the Italian Superbike Championship, piloting the powerful Panigale V4 R. This combination of testing and racing experience enables Pirro to provide valuable insights and feedback for Ducati’s ongoing development endeavors.

“We are delighted to be able to count on Michele again for the next three years. Pirro started his work as a test rider eleven years ago, so no other rider knows our Desmosedici GP as well as he does. It is also thanks to his valuable contribution that we have been able to make our bike as competitive as it is today. The goal is to continue to grow; being able to count on Michele’s great experience is an asset in our development work.” – Luigi Dall’Igna, General Manager of Ducati Corse.

As a testament to his capabilities and the trust Ducati places in him, Michele Pirro will compete as a wild card entry in the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, June 9th to 11th, at the Mugello circuit. This race underscores Ducati’s commitment to nurturing talent and leveraging their test riders’ abilities on the track.

“Most of my sporting career has been with Ducati, and I can’t imagine myself in any other colour than the red of the Borgo Panigale manufacturer. I arrived here in 2013, probably during the most difficult years for Ducati Corse, but now I am also experiencing the best ones for the company. I am very proud of what we have done together. I have worked closely with the new generation of Italian riders and always learn something new from them. As always, I will work hard to continue contributing to developing the Desmosedici GP and the Panigale V4. I thank Claudio, Gigi, Paolo and Davide, and all the people who believe in me. Forza Ducati always!” – Michele Pirro, #51, Ducati MotoGP Test Team.

The contract extension between Ducati and Michele Pirro reinforces their successful partnership in motorcycle racing. Pirro’s dedication, technical expertise, and racing proficiency make him an invaluable asset in the development of Ducati’s race machines.

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