100 Years of Ducati: Celebrating a Century of Passion

World Ducati Week 2026: the perfect setting for Ducati’s 100th birthday

There could be no better place to celebrate Ducati’s centenary than World Ducati Week 2026 at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli.

From the moment the gates opened, thousands of motorcycles filled the circuit, bringing together riders from around the world for a weekend dedicated to Ducati passion. The atmosphere reflected everything that has made Ducati so unique over the last century - community, racing spirit, innovation, style and the unmistakable bond between the brand and its riders.

One of the most memorable moments was the anniversary parade, with thousands of motorcycles leaving the circuit and crossing the Riviera Romagnola towards Riccione. It created a powerful visual tribute to Ducati’s history and the people who continue to live the brand every day.

Ducati legends past and present

World Ducati Week 2026 also brought together some of the greatest names in Ducati racing history.

The Lap of Honour saw Ducati legends and current champions sharing the track, including names such as Casey Stoner, Loris Capirossi, Troy Bayliss, Carl Fogarty, Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Márquez. For Ducati fans, it was a rare and emotional moment - the riders who helped build the legend of Ducati alongside those still writing the next chapter.

That racing DNA is one of the reasons Ducati remains so special. From MotoGP and WorldSBK to national championships and road-going performance bikes, the connection between racing and production is part of what gives every Ducati its character.

The Lenovo Race of Champions

Another major highlight of World Ducati Week 2026 was the build-up to the Lenovo Race of Champions, where Ducati riders from MotoGP, WorldSBK, WorldSSP and national championships prepared to compete on one-of-a-kind Panigale V4 Tricolore models.

Qualifying brought proper sporting energy to the weekend, with Nicolò Bulega securing pole position ahead of Lorenzo Baldassarri and Francesco Bagnaia.

For Ducati fans, the Race of Champions is always more than a race. It is a celebration of Ducati competition, performance and the riders who push the brand forward.

New Ducati models and centenary highlights

Ducati’s 100th anniversary was not just about looking back. It was also about the future.

Visitors at World Ducati Week 2026 had the chance to discover the full Ducati range, the Collezione 100, the new Superleggera V4 Centenario, and a preview of the new Desmo450 SM, Ducati’s first Supermotard.

The Heritage Village also gave visitors a journey through Ducati history, with historic bikes, passionate owners and the “100 Years, 100 Stories, 1 Legend” exhibition. It was a reminder that Ducati’s story has never been built by machines alone, but by the people who ride, race, collect, restore and celebrate them.

Ducati Nottingham support near you

For riders searching for 100 years of Ducati, Ducati 100th anniversary, Ducati centenary 2026, World Ducati Week 2026, Ducati Nottingham, new Ducati motorcycles Nottingham, used Ducati bikes Nottingham, Ducati servicing Nottingham or an official Ducati dealer in the East Midlands, Ducati Nottingham is here to help. Based in Beeston, Nottingham, we support riders across Nottinghamshire, Derby, Leicester, Lincoln, Mansfield, Loughborough and the wider East Midlands with new Ducati motorcycles, Ducati Approved used bikes, servicing, MOTs, genuine Ducati parts, accessories, apparel and expert Ducati advice.