Since stepping into a testing and development role with Ducati, Antonio Cairoli has raced two MXGP World Championship events. The nine-time world champion made his competitive debut on the Italian manufacturer’s machine at the Dutch Grand Prix in Arnhem last season, followed by a return to action earlier this year at the fifth round of the MXGP World Championship in Arco di Trento – his home Grand Prix.
Speaking to GateDrop.com after his Arco appearance, Cairoli hinted that he wasn’t done yet:
“I would love to do Matterley Basin, it’s one of my favourite tracks. At the moment, we have no real plan, but I will do more racing.”
That wish now looks set to come true. We understand that Cairoli will indeed make the trip to England to race the British Grand Prix at Matterley Basin – a fan-favourite circuit and one that clearly holds a special place in the Italian’s heart.
Cairoli’s presence will provide a significant boost to the event, adding another layer of excitement for British fans who will get the rare chance to watch the motocross legend behind the gate once again. His participation also means Ducati will field a three-rider line-up in MXGP for the first time, joining full-time factory riders Jeremy Seewer and Mattia Guadagnini under the awning.
It’s also believed that the race could serve as important preparation for a possible appearance in the AMA Pro Motocross Championship – a debut for Ducati on American soil that would mark another historic step in the brand’s off-road journey. However, those plans are still under discussion and remain unconfirmed at this stage.
An official announcement from Ducati confirming Cairoli’s entry at Matterley Basin is expected after this weekend’s MXGP round in Latvia.
