Ducati Rumours Swirl Around Dunlop’s 2026 TT Plans

LONDON, 18 January 2026 – Fresh speculation has emerged regarding the future plans of Isle of Man TT record-holder Michael Dunlop, with reports linking the Northern Irish superstar with an expanded partnership with Ducati for the 2026 season. The rumours suggest Dunlop could campaign a factory-supported Panigale V4R in the premier Superbike class, a move that would mark a significant shift in his machinery lineup.

From Rumour to Reality?

According to industry reports, discussions are underway that could see Dunlop, who races under the Feel Racing banner, add a Ducati Superbike to his arsenal. This would build on his successful switch to the Italian marque’s Panigale V2 in the Supersport class for the 2025 TT, where he secured a double victory. A deal for Dunlop to race a Ducati in the big bike category has been mooted before, with plans with Paul Bird Motorsport in 2020 derailed by the pandemic and a subsequent 2022 agreement collapsing at the last minute. Ducati is reportedly preparing a new version of the V4R for 2026, featuring around 235 horsepower and enhanced aerodynamics.

Building on a Record-Breaking Era

The rumours follow two historically successful years for the Ballymoney rider. In 2024, Dunlop surpassed his late uncle Joey Dunlop’s long-standing record of 26 TT victories, becoming the most successful rider in the event’s 118-year history. He didn’t stop there, raising the bar again in 2025 by taking his total win tally to an astonishing 33, alongside 51 podium finishes. His four wins in 2025 included a Supersport double on the Ducati Panigale V2—giving the Italian brand its first TT wins since 1995—and victories in the Supertwin class. He also finished second in the Superbike TT and took third in both Superstock races aboard a BMW M1000RR.

Michael Dunlop: Career at a Glance

Established 2025 Programme Continues

While 2026 plans remain unconfirmed, Dunlop’s schedule for the upcoming 2025 season is set. He will continue his association with Hawk Racing to campaign a BMW in the Superbike and Senior TT races, and will also ride for Team LRP Poland in selected rounds of the Endurance World Championship (EWC). Furthermore, he is slated to return to the Classic TT in August, seeking victory in the Lightweight class aboard his own MD Racing Honda RS250.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Michael Dunlop’s current TT wins record?

As of the end of the 2025 Isle of Man TT races, Michael Dunlop holds the all-time record with 33 race victories, surpassing the previous record of 26 held by his uncle, Joey Dunlop.

Has Michael Dunlop raced a Ducati Superbike at the TT before?

No, he has not. Dunlop has raced Hondas, BMWs, and Yamahas in the Superbike class at the TT. The 2026 rumours, if realised, would mark his debut on a Ducati in the premier class.

What did Dunlop ride in the 2025 TT?

For the 2025 event, Dunlop rode a Hawk Racing-backed BMW M1000RR in the Superbike and Senior races, and a Milwaukee Ducati Panigale V2 in the Supersport races.