From a press release issued by Ducati Corse:

NEW DUCATI CORSE COMMUNICATIONS STRUCTURE

In order to face up to a demanding 2003 racing season, Ducati Corse has reorganised its communications sector with the creation of a new structure.

45-year-old journalist Francesco Rapisarda has been appointed Director of Communications. Francesco, who has considerable experience in motorcycles (Motosprint, RJ Reynolds and Aprilia) returns to the sector after a period spent working in football and tennis (Director of Communications Lotto Sport Italia).

Francesco Rapisarda, who will report directly to Ducati Corse Managing Director Claudio Domenicali, will be responsible for the management of this important and delicate structure. He will be present at all the MotoGP races and will also coordinate Ducati Corse’s Superbike and Corporate activities.

The Ducati Corse Communications Office will be completed by Julian Thomas (Superbike Press Officer) and Sonia Braggio (Assistant).

The new structure becomes operational from January 8, 2003.

(Editorial Note: Rapisarda handled PR for Aprilia at the time the original Aprilia Mille was launched.)