FACT FILE

Name Alessandro Valia

Age 44

Claim to fame Ducati test rider Other projects 2020 Panigale V4 and Streetfighter V4

Greatest achievement

“Developing traction control and cornering ABS. It was scary lapping Mugello in 1:52 on a road bike and making a Diavel handle with its long wheelbase and oversize rear tyre.”

Missed opportunity “I won the Italian Superstock championship in ’02 and raced as a wildcard in WSB on an old 996, finishing in the top 15. I wish I had a chance on a factory bike, but during my testing career I’ve had my revenge with the very fast riders!”