Ducati has confirmed it will enter the 2027 Arenacross British Championship with an official UK-backed team, marking its first appearance in the series. The move is part of the Italian manufacturer’s continued expansion into off-road competition.
Anthony Revell, founder of the action sports brand Stolen Brand, will establish and manage the new team, using Ducati’s new Desmo450 MX Factory bikes and contesting all six rounds of the championship, with events scheduled in Birmingham, Belfast and Aberdeen in February.
Ducati first showcased its Desmo450 MX models at the 2026 Arenacross event in Birmingham. In 2027, the team will compete against established Arenacross teams and riders.
Ryan Gregory, marketing, communications and PR director, Ducati North Europe, said: “Entering the Arenacross British Championship with a Ducati UK-backed team is an exciting next step in developing our motocross presence.
“Arenacross combines competitive racing with an atmosphere that brings fans close to the action. We’re looking forward to working with Anthony and Stolen Brand to introduce the Desmo450 MX Factory to this demanding racing environment.
“We know we’ll face experienced teams and riders, and we respect that challenge. This programme gives us an opportunity to build experience, connect with the British off-road community and bring more fans into Ducati’s motocross journey.”
Matt Bates, promoter of Arenacross, said: “To have Ducati putting an official UK-backed team into Arenacross is massive. This is a manufacturer with extraordinary racing heritage, recognised around the world, and one that’s already making its mark in motocross. Seeing those iconic red bikes join the Arenacross British Championship is a hugely exciting prospect for us and for the fans.
“And now, because of how we’ve positioned the all-new Dirt Bike Live Show alongside Arenacross, manufacturers and brands are increasingly recognising the opportunity we offer. It gives them a competitive platform ahead of the outdoor season, puts their machinery in front of more than 30,000 fans in major indoor arenas, and creates opportunities to build awareness through the content and coverage surrounding the championship.
“But ultimately, the most important thing is the racing. Ducati is coming in with official backing, a new team and the latest factory machinery, and they’ll be lining up against some very experienced Arenacross competitors. That’s brilliant for the championship and for the fans”.
Details of the team’s rider line-up and further plans are expected soon. The 2027 Arenacross British Championship will be contested over six rounds with a £150,000 prize fund.
For more information, see www.axworldtour.com.