Unions demand answers as Ducati sale rumours grow

Volkswagen is undergoing a major restructuring and has already entered into agreements to sell parts of its business. At the same time, rumours about Ducati’s future within the Group have gathered momentum. Trade union representatives are now demanding clear answers.

Ducati has been part of the Volkswagen Group since 2012 through Audi and Lamborghini and remains part of the Group’s brand portfolio. Volkswagen is also working to reduce costs, streamline its operations and focus its investments. In June, the Group entered into an agreement to sell 51 per cent of engine and turbine manufacturer Everllence to Bain Capital.

Against this backdrop, fresh rumours have emerged that Volkswagen may also be considering changes involving Ducati and Lamborghini.

Unions demand clear answers

Trade union representatives for employees at Ducati and Lamborghini have responded to the rumours and expressed concern about the companies’ future. They oppose any potential sale or break-up of the businesses and want Volkswagen to set out its plans clearly.

However, the unions’ reaction does not confirm that any sale is actually being prepared. Volkswagen, Audi and Ducati have not announced any decision to sell Ducati.

Rumours of an Italian bid

At the same time, rumours are circulating that newly established Italian holding company Patritalia has submitted a formal bid for Ducati Motor Holding. The rumour is based on claims from an anonymous person who says they work at Ducati and have seen internal documents. The documents have not been made public, and the person’s connection to the company has not been verified.

Volkswagen, Audi, Lamborghini, Ducati and Patritalia have not confirmed that any bid has been submitted.

Patritalia is a registered Italian holding company with the stated ambition of bringing well-known Italian businesses back under Italian ownership. However, the fact that the company exists is not evidence that a bid for Ducati has actually been made, or that it has the financing required for such an acquisition.

This is confirmed

Ducati remains part of the Volkswagen Group.
Volkswagen has entered into an agreement to sell 51 per cent of Everllence.
Trade union representatives at Ducati and Lamborghini have expressed concern about the rumours and are demanding answers.
Volkswagen, Audi and Ducati have not announced any decision to sell Ducati.