Italy seeks to protect Ducati from Volkswagen job cuts

Italy is moving to shield Ducati from the deep restructuring at its German parent, Volkswagen. Industry Minister Adolfo Urso said he had met Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali and agreed on a roadmap to protect the motorcycle brand.

Urso described Ducati as a company of major national importance and a symbol of Made in Italy. In a message posted on X, he said the government would use the tools available to ensure Ducati could continue representing Italy through its sporting, technological and commercial achievements.

The minister also highlighted the company as an example of "excellence and quality." Ducati, founded in Bologna in 1926, has belonged to the Volkswagen group since Audi acquired the Italian brand in 2012.

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This morning I met with Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali, agreeing on a roadmap that will allow us to safeguard such an important company, a symbol of Made in Italy, of which we are all proud.

Volkswagen is carrying out a broad adjustment plan that includes reducing the number of models and cutting jobs. The group already had a plan to eliminate 50,000 positions and has approved another 50,000 cuts through 2030, potentially affecting 100,000 jobs in total.

The German automaker is also examining the future of some plants and brands, including Seat. EFE reported that the group is struggling with strong competition from Chinese manufacturers in Europe, falling sales in China and US tariffs.

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excellence and quality