In a jaw-dropping development that has the motocross world buzzing, Ken Roczen has officially parted ways with Suzuki after signing a record-breaking $245 million contract to join Ducati. The announcement, confirmed earlier today by sources close to the negotiations, marks one of the most dramatic team switches in recent motocross history.
For weeks, speculation had been mounting about Roczen’s future, with whispers circulating in paddocks and across social media that Ducati had made an aggressive push to secure his signature. Those rumors have now been put to rest, and the move is set to shake up the competitive landscape of the sport.
Roczen, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest riders of his generation, has been the face of Suzuki’s racing program for several seasons. His partnership with the team delivered countless memorable performances, race victories, and podium finishes. Beyond his track results, Roczen’s professionalism, charisma, and connection with fans made him an invaluable ambassador for the Suzuki brand.
However, as competitive pressures in motocross continue to intensify, Ducati saw an opportunity to lure the German superstar with not only unprecedented financial terms but also the promise of a more technologically advanced and competitive machine. Reports suggest that Ducati’s offer wasn’t just about the money—it also included commitments to invest heavily in R&D, giving Roczen the tools and team support needed to compete for championships at the highest level.
Industry insiders say the move could prove to be a turning point for Ducati in the motocross arena. Known primarily for its dominance in road racing and superbike championships, Ducati has been steadily expanding its presence in off-road motorsports. Securing Roczen’s talents sends a clear message: they’re here to win, and they’re willing to make bold moves to get there.
For Suzuki, Roczen’s departure will be a tough pill to swallow. His contributions to their program went far beyond his results on race day—he was a leader in the garage, a mentor to younger riders, and a constant presence in marketing and fan engagement. While Suzuki has a strong roster of riders, losing a star of Roczen’s caliber inevitably creates a void that will take time to fill.
Fans have already taken to social media to share their reactions, with responses ranging from excitement about seeing Roczen on a Ducati to sadness over the end of his Suzuki chapter. Many are eager to see how he adapts to his new machine and whether the partnership will bring immediate success on the track.
As the dust settles on this monumental deal, one thing is certain: the 2026 motocross season just became a whole lot more interesting. With Ken Roczen donning Ducati colors and commanding the largest contract in motocross history, all eyes will be on him when the gates drop.
Roczen’s move is more than just a change of teams—it’s a statement about ambition, opportunity, and the ever-evolving nature of professional motocross. And for fans, it’s the start of an exciting new chapter in the career of one of the sport’s true legends.