Ken Roczen’s highly anticipated switch to Ducati for the 2026 Supercross season is already a done deal, according to multiple sources close to the situation. The German motocross star, currently competing for Suzuki, has reportedly signed a groundbreaking contract with Ducati, marking a significant shift in his career and the landscape of American Supercross.
A Monumental Move in Supercross
Ducati’s entry into the AMA Supercross scene has been anticipated for some time. The Italian manufacturer officially signaled its intention to enter the series in December 2023 by appointing MotoGP figure Paulo Ciabatti to head its Ducati Corse off-road project. This move was part of a broader strategy to expand Ducati’s presence beyond MotoGP and into off-road racing disciplines .
In 2025, Ducati took a significant step forward by announcing plans to enter SuperMotocross in 2026 in partnership with Troy Lee Designs. This collaboration includes an eight-city tour featuring Ducati’s prototype Supercross bike, with stops at major events such as Anaheim 1, San Diego, Tampa, Arlington, East Rutherford, Pittsburgh, and Salt Lake City .
Roczen’s Role in Ducati’s Supercross Ambitions
Insiders report that Ken Roczen played a pivotal role in Ducati’s decision to enter the Supercross arena. He reportedly tested Ducati’s prototype Supercross bike under various conditions and provided valuable feedback that helped refine the bike’s performance to suit the demands of Supercross tracks. Team managers were impressed with Roczen’s adaptability and insights, which solidified his position as a key figure in Ducati’s Supercross plans .
The contract between Roczen and Ducati is said to be a multi-year deal, reflecting both parties’ commitment to long-term success in the Supercross series. While the exact financial terms have not been disclosed, the partnership is expected to be one of the most lucrative in Supercross history, underscoring Roczen’s status as one of the sport’s premier talents.
Implications for the Supercross Landscape
Roczen’s move to Ducati is expected to have a significant impact on the Supercross landscape. His presence in a new team, coupled with Ducati’s reputation for pushing technological boundaries, is anticipated to shake up the Supercross hierarchy. Rivals and fans alike are already speculating about the potential matchups and Ducati’s ability to compete with established teams like Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Honda .
This development also signals a broader shift in the sport, as more manufacturers explore opportunities in Supercross. Ducati’s entry could pave the way for other brands to invest in the series, potentially leading to increased competition and visibility for the sport.
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 Supercross season approaches, all eyes will be on Ken Roczen and Ducati. The combination of Roczen’s skill and Ducati’s engineering prowess has the potential to redefine the competitive landscape of Supercross. Fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see how this new partnership unfolds and what it means for the future of the sport.
In conclusion, Ken Roczen’s switch to Ducati for the 2026 Supercross season is a significant milestone in both his career and the evolution of American Supercross. With Ducati’s entry into the series and Roczen’s leadership, the 2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.
