Ducati and VR46 Launch the D46 Apparel Line

In a combined marketing effort, Italian motorbike manufacturer Ducati and VR46 have created a merchandise line that was conceived by popular designer Aldo Drudi, and which will be available as the coming racing season begins.

“Ducati and the nine-time World Champion Valentino Rossi, who will wear Ducati Marlboro Team colors for the next two years, announced in the magnificent setting of Madonna di Campiglio an additional development in their relationship,” a company statement reads.

“In addition to being brands that perfectly embody the "Made in Italy" philosophy, Ducati and Valentino also share the characteristic of each being followed by thriving communities of fans - groups that now finally share the same passion,” it added.

The company has revealed the portswear and casual wear apparel collection that will be offered through official Ducati dealerships everywhere, through every circuit on the MotoGP calendar, and through the official websites. The D46 collection comprises a Hooded Sweatshirt ($89), an SS T-Shirt ($49), a Ladies SS V-Neck T-Shirt ($49), and a Cap ($29).

“For the first time, the yellow so characteristic of the brand identity of Valentino and his VR46 line, and the red that's intrinsic to Ducati Corse's corporate identity and its very soul, meet in a sportswear and casual wear apparel collection,” Ducati brags.

Valentino Rossi is currently getting ready for the Sepang testing session in February, after he recently completed a test at Misano aboard a 1198 superbike, which has revealed that even though he is still not in the top form, he is still likely to poise a serious threat in the forthcoming season.