The story continues, and it remains one of the most successful in modern MotoGP. The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team has confirmed the renewal of its agreement with Ducati as a factory-supported team of the Borgo Panigale manufacturer, an extension of a partnership that has become a real benchmark in the premier class through at least the 2029 season.
Originally signed for the 2025 campaign, the deal that gave Valentino Rossi’s Tavulia-based squad factory-supported team status has now been extended for three years, tying together the all-Italian project in MotoGP’s next competitive era. It is a renewal that speaks to the mutual trust and shared ambition that underpins a collaboration that has been proving its strength since the partnership first began in 2022.
The figures behind the alliance tell the story of a project that has consistently performed above its weight. In just a few years, the VR46 Racing Team has established itself as a point of reference in MotoGP, and has earned its Factory Supported Team designation from 2025. Over years of collaboration, the all-Italian partnership has contributed to four wins, sixteen podium finishes and an impressive 1,792 points in the Constructors’ Championship – a body of work that fully justifies the decision to enhance the relationship rather than replace it.
For the coming season, the message is one of continuity. Nothing changes and everything is confirmed. The team will continue to have two Ducati Desmosedici GP machines in its garage – a factory-spec bike that will receive technical updates throughout the season, and a standard-spec non-factory bike. Both machines will remain supported by the Ducati technical staff who are already fully integrated into the team’s operations, preserving the structure that has delivered such consistent results.
Team director Alessio Salucci expressed genuine pride in achieving the extension. “We are really proud to announce the renewal of our agreement with Ducati as the factory-backed team in MotoGP for the next three years. Taking on this role was a huge honor from the start and an important milestone for our entire group. But confirming our position is even more meaningful, as it reflects the consistency and incredible work of each member of the team. I would like to thank everyone working within the team, our partners for their continued support and Ducati – Especially want to thank Luigi Dall’Igna, Claudio Domenicali and Mauro Grasilli – not only for believing in us and our project, but also for confirming through this renewal that we are going in the right direction.
Salucci also acknowledged the significant challenge that MotoGP faces with its sweeping regulation changes for 2027. “With the new regulations coming in 2027, the next few MotoGP seasons will present a huge challenge, but we are ready to face it with enthusiasm, determination and the solid foundation we have built to reach big goals. Certainly, this successful partnership between the team and Ducati will continue to benefit both parties.”
From a manufacturer’s perspective, Ducati Corse general manager Luigi Dall’Igna was equally impressive about a relationship that has worked on every front. “From the very beginning of our collaboration, the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team has demonstrated great continuity, expertise and passion. Over the past few years we have achieved important milestones together. We are delighted to continue this journey until at least 2029, further strengthening a partnership that has already given us great satisfaction. This renewal strengthens a relationship built on shared values, a common vision and ambitious goals. I am confident that we will continue to grow in the coming years.” We will continue to achieve excellent results together over the years.”
Dall’Igna concluded with a personal note of gratitude to the personalities who have built the team to the position it is. “Finally, I would like to thank Valentino Rossi, Alessio Salucci, Pablo Nieto and everyone on the team for their professionalism and dedication.”
As MotoGP prepares for the most significant regulatory overhaul in over a decade, the VR46 Racing Team enters that new frontier with certainty, stability and the full support of the most successful manufacturer on the grid. Founded by a nine-time World Champion and now firmly established among the elite operations of the paddock, Valentino Rossi’s team is not just surviving in MotoGP – it’s thriving, and has secured the foundation to continue doing so for years to come.
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