CLAUDIO Domenicali, currently Ducati's general manager and a member of its board of directors, has been named as its new CEO, succeeding Gabriele Del Torchio, who is leaving to head Italy's national airline Alitalia.

Rupert Stadler, chairman of owner Audi, praised the outgoing CEO, under whose six-year reign Ducati has thrived: 'Del Torchio guided Ducati out of an economically difficult phase, back to a successful growth path and to the top of the worldwide segment of premium performance motorcycles. For that achievement, we express our gratitude on behalf of all Audi and Ducati employees and wish him all the best in his future tasks.'

Del Torchio was appointed after Ducati was bought by InvestIndustrial in 2007 and significantly boosted the company's fortunes before its sale to Audi last year. He said: “I look back on six intensive, exciting and successful years. It was an intense experience which will remain an unforgettable memory. I leave Ducati in the knowledge that I have helped to place the company on a path of growth and strength.'

Domenicali has been with Ducati for over two decades, having joined as a project leader in 1991, and has served in various positions, including MD of Ducati Corse, R&D Director and GM of Operations and Product Development.

Stadler said of the new CEO: 'Domenicali knows Ducati and the motorcycle business more than anyone. He embodies continuity and Ducati’s values in an exceptional manner.'