Report: Audi poised to buy Ducati

Audi is set to add another Italian nameplate to its stable (the other is Lamborghini) with news today that it is set to buy Ducati.

According to British magazine CAR, Audi is currently doing due diligence to ensure all is up to scratch. The directive seems to have come from the top, however. Ferdinand Piech instituted Project Eagle, which includes a having a motorbike company on the books.

The issue with Ducati currently is its debts are quite significant, so a company as strong as Audi is would be the perfect fit to save the struggling superbike maker.

Other contenders have put their hand up, though. Indian firm Mahindra and Daimler have announced intentions to purchase, but Audi is apparently being given first right of refusal.

Even if the deal falls through, it’s unlikely that Ducati will flounder, especially given the Volkswagen Group’s penchant for brand building – VW itself may even step up to the plate.

Teamspeed, as ever, will keep you up to date with any developments.