The Ducati story
Antonio Cavalieri Ducati and his sons founded Ducati in Bologna in 1926 to make radio components. After the Second World War the company began making motorcycles, starting with the Cucciolo engine. Engineer Fabio Taglioni introduced the desmodromic valve system in the 1950s, which became a Ducati hallmark.
What makes Ducati powerful
Ducati's racing success and Italian design make it a leading name in performance motorcycling. The Monster, Panigale and Multistrada are icons, and Ducati has won many World Superbike and MotoGP titles.
Ducati today
Ducati Motor Holding has been owned by Audi, part of the Volkswagen Group, since 2012. Claudio Domenicali is chief executive. Its factory in Borgo Panigale, Bologna, includes a museum.
What comes next for Ducati
Ducati's next phase is about expanding its range and preparing for electric motorcycles, building on its experience as sole supplier to the MotoE championship.
Why Ducati ranks #68
Product, Innovation & Delivery (72.0) and Brand Positioning & Recall (70.0) carry Ducati's Power Score of 68.00.
Sustainability, Governance & ESG at 60.0. What would move it: Published, measurable sustainability targets, stronger governance disclosure and third-party ESG ratings.
Pillar profile
Versus its nearest rivals
13 Automotive & Mobility brands are in the Europe 100. Ducati is #10 in its sector.
Questions people ask
What rank is Ducati in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026?
Ducati ranks #68 of 100 in Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026, with a WCRC Power Score of 68.00 out of 100.
When was Ducati founded and who founded it?
Ducati was founded in 1926. Founder(s): Antonio Cavalieri Ducati and his sons.
What is Ducati's weakest area?
In the 2026 assessment, Ducati's lowest pillar is Sustainability, Governance & ESG at 60.0 out of 100.
Who leads Ducati today?
Claudio Domenicali, CEO. The brand is owned by Volkswagen AG (through Audi).
Where is Ducati headquartered?
Ducati is based in Bologna, Italy. Its country of origin is Italy.
What is Ducati's revenue?
€925m revenue (FY2025), according to the company's published results.
What is a signature fact about Ducati?
Ducati began by making radio components before building motorcycles after the Second World War.
Key facts
| Brand | Ducati |
|---|---|
| Company / owner | Volkswagen AG (through Audi) |
| Headquarters | Bologna, Italy |
| Founded | 1926 |
| Founder(s) | Antonio Cavalieri Ducati and his sons |
| Leadership | Claudio Domenicali, CEO |
| Latest revenue | €925m revenue (FY2025) Source |
| Sector | Automotive & Mobility |
| Country of origin | Italy |
| Signature fact | Ducati began by making radio components before building motorcycles after the Second World War. |
| Official website | ducati.com |
Ducati is ranked #68 in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 (Power Score 68.00).