Ducati riders make pit stop at Shell servo ahead of Australian MotoGP

Ducati and Shell teamed up earlier this week to offer a unique experience to MotoGP fans ahead of the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix at Phillip Island this weekend.

Ducati Corse riders Francesco ‘Pecco’ Bagnaia and Enea Bastianini made a surprise appearance at the Shell Coles Express Westgate service station in West Melbourne and spent the time meeting excited fans and posing for photo opportunities.

Pecco is the defending MotoGP World Champion currently leads the 2023 championship standings, following a thrilling win in last weekend’s Indonesia GP. Bastianini has been plagued by injury, but is set to lineup at the Island.

“We’re delighted to provide the opportunity for our Shell customers to meet the world-class Ducati Corse riders in the lead-up to the Australian MotoGP,” said Shell marketing boss, Andrew Egan. “Shell’s partnership with this high-performing race team showcases the excellence and innovation that both brands represent.”

Shell has been in a partnership with Ducati Corse for 25 years, with the technical relationship growing into a hugely successful motorsport collaboration. The companies have used learnings from MotoGP to help develop premium products for Shell customers globally, including Shell V-Power road fuel and Shell Advance oil.

The Desmosedici MotoGP race bikes ridden by the Ducati Corse team use a bespoke Shel V-Power race fuel as well as a bespoke blend of Shell Advance engine oil.

Bagnaia currently has a 18 point lead in the championship over Prima Pramac and fellow Ducati rider, Jorge Martin. The riders hit the track at the Island for the first time this weekend earlier today, with the first practice sessions.

The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix is scheduled for October 20-22 at Phillip Island.