A new report says Volkswagen is considering selling Ducati, again
When Pinoys talk about premium motorcycle brands, there are just two in the conversation, and that’s BMW and Ducati. That’s also exactly why a fresh report suggesting Volkswagen Group may once again consider selling the Italian manufacturer has caught everyone’s attention.
Just recently, a report from the Financial Times said that advisers have floated the idea of selling Ducati as Volkswagen searches for ways to support a sweeping restructuring. Another option reportedly being discussed is a public listing of Lamborghini, another prized brand within the group.
The report comes as Volkswagen Group works to improve its finances after announcing plans to lay off 100,000 jobs and close four of its factories. It also follows the sale of its marine engine business, Everllence, in a deal reportedly worth about EUR 10 billion. This move, as many analysts say, has again fueled the discussion about other assets that could eventually be considered for sale, and that’s where Ducati comes in.
This isn’t the first time Ducati has found itself at the center of such reports. In 2017, Volkswagen Group, through Audi, explored selling the Bologna-based motorcycle maker as it dealt with the financial fallout from the Dieselgate emissions scandal. Several companies and investment firms were reportedly interested, but the proposal never moved forward after meeting resistance from labor representatives and a change in direction within the company.
This time, there is still no indication that Ducati has officially been put on the market. The Financial Times says the discussions are part of a broader review of Volkswagen Group’s portfolio, while other analysts quoted in the report believe a sale remains unlikely because the group’s premium brands continue to be among its strongest businesses.
For now, Ducati owners and fans have little reason to worry. There is no formal sale process, no confirmed buyers, and no announcement from Volkswagen itself that the motorcycle brand is up for grabs. But as Volkswagen Group reshapes its business, even some of its most valuable brands are no longer escaping the discussion.
