Ducati racing star, Dario Marchetti heaped praise on the Dubai Autodrome after his debut race in the UAE Superbike Championship on Friday. The Italian, who has won numerous titles right across the globe and was racing on a stock Ducati 1199 Panigale R, ranked the Dubai circuit up alongside the world’s best circuits, such as Daytona and Phillip Island.

The Italian was just getting warmed up during the first race in the 1000cc class, where he finished 3rd in the class to take a podium place. He then enjoyed an even better result during the second race, finishing an impressive 3rd overall and 2nd in his class behind Abdulaziz Bin Laden’s race modified Honda. Both Marchetti and Ducati UAE were happy with the results, which proved the capabilities of the stock street homologated Ducati 1199 Panigale R.

Local rider, Joe Oxley also delivered one of his best rides ever, coming out on top in the first race of the 600cc class on his 848 Ducati, making it a great day all round for Ducati racing.

“I’ve raced on some of the greatest tracks in the world, such as Daytona, Phillip Island and Brno and I can tell you that the Autodrome ranks up there with the best of them.” Said Marchetti “The track was great, the bike was great and the races were extremely competitive. I really enjoyed the experience, and would like to come back and race the longer, Grand Prix course.”

Marchetti’s list of honours includes four national titles, the Italian Endurance Championship in 2001, the Battle of the Twins race at Daytona in 2004 and the European Championship later that same year.