WSBK: Rinaldi Steps Up to Factory Ducati Team for 2021

Michael Ruben Rinaldi will step up to the Aruba.it Racing Ducati Team in 2021.

Rumours of the Italian replacing Chaz Davies at the factory effort have been circulating for months. Rinaldi has now been officially confirmed alongside Scott Redding.

The 24-year-old achieved his breakthrough this season with consistent performances and a maiden victory at Aragon.

Rinaldi commented on his promotion:

“After an exciting journey in Ducati, joining the official team is an honour for me, as well as confirmation of the quality of the work done over the years. My first target will be to repay, through the results, the trust that has been given to me. For an Italian rider, racing with Ducati is an extraordinary feeling, and I am sure that the passion of the Ducati people will give me an extra boost.”

Michael Ruben Rinaldi

Rinaldi entered WorldSBK in 2018 with the Aruba.it Racing Junior Team. Although he only competed in the European rounds, he collected seven top 10 finishes and earned his first full season with Barni Ducati.

After a challenging campaign that produced a best result of fourth at Jerez, Rinaldi left the outfit to join Team GoEleven for 2020.

The former Superstock 1000 champion thrived upon the bike closer to factory machinery. Rinaldi only once finished outside the top 10 so far this season and achieved a sensational maiden victory at Aragon, backed up by another two podium finishes.

Speaking about the done deal, Ducati Corse Manager Luigi Dall’Igna said:

“We’re pleased to welcome Michael Ruben Rinaldi to the official team. This year, Michael has shown great competitiveness, crowned by the Aragon victory, and has always been fighting for top positions. We believe that the time has come for him to join the official team and we are convinced that he has a bright future ahead of him.”

Luigi Dall’Igna