Could the Bayliss name be back on Ducati machinery in 2022 on the world stage?
The Bologna-based manufacturer is returning to WorldSSP next year with Nicolo Bulega already confirmed for the team
The grid for the 2022 FIM Supersport World Championship may only just be starting to take shape, but rumours are swirling about who might join the Championship. Ducati have announced their return to WorldSSP action for next season with Nicolo Bulega, but could there be a famous name returning to Ducati machinery in WorldSSP 20 years on from his dad winning his first title with the Bologna-based manufacturer?
Oli Bayliss has already competed in a wildcard appearance in WorldSSP, at Phillip Island in 2020, and has since returned to competing in his native Australia in the Superbike class and winning a race on the Ducati Panigale V4 R. 20 years on from Troy Bayliss, Oli’s dad, winning his first title with Ducati in WorldSBK, there could be a Bayliss back on Ducati machinery inside the WorldSBK paddock for 2022.
Discussing the 2022 WorldSSP campaign on After Sunday, Ducati Corse’s Sporting Director, Paolo Ciabatti, said: “We've seen some riders coming from Moto2™, such as Locatelli and Odendaal, perform well and win races in Supersport. Nicolo needs a change of scenery and having the opportunity to spearhead Ducati's effort will give him extra motivation. At this stage it's not official, but we'll also try to get Troy Bayliss' son in the Championship, we're discussing it with Troy. Oli Bayliss turned 18 a week ago and has won a race with the V4 R in Australia. Getting him in the World Championship, 20 years after his father won his first title with us, could be a very nice story, that'd be interesting for the Ducatisti.”
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