KEN ROCZEN SHOCKS MOTOCROSS WORLD, REJECTS HISTORIC $275 MILLION DUCATI DEAL: “MY LOYALTY LIES WITH SUZUKI…”
In a decision that has sent shockwaves through the motocross and supercross communities, German superstar Ken Roczen has reportedly turned down a staggering $275 million offer from Ducati to join their much-anticipated motocross program. Instead, Roczen declared his unwavering loyalty to Suzuki, the brand he has represented in both AMA Supercross and Motocross with grit, resilience, and heart.
The rumored deal would have made Roczen the highest-paid rider in motocross history—by a wide margin. Ducati, a global powerhouse in road racing and MotoGP, recently announced its bold entry into the motocross scene and sought Roczen as the face of their ambitious off-road project. The Italian manufacturer’s vision was to build their motocross credibility overnight by signing a proven champion and global icon. On paper, Roczen was the perfect fit.
But in a move no one saw coming, Roczen declined the offer.
“My loyalty lies with Suzuki,” Roczen said in a brief but emotional statement shared on social media. “I’ve been through highs and lows in this sport, and Suzuki never gave up on me. They’ve stood by me when others walked away. That’s something money can’t buy.”
This isn’t the first time Roczen has made a decision that bucks the industry trend. After parting ways with Honda in 2022, Roczen opted to return to Suzuki, a move many analysts called “risky” given the brand’s limited factory presence and outdated bike technology. Yet Roczen silenced critics by pulling off podiums and heat race wins, proving the RM-Z450 could still compete at the highest level in the hands of a motivated champion.
Ducati’s push into motocross had already turned heads earlier this year when they began testing their new machine in Europe. The brand’s deep pockets and engineering pedigree were expected to lure top-tier talent from rival manufacturers. Roczen was the crown jewel of that plan. Instead, the 30-year-old German has reminded everyone that loyalty, legacy, and heart still matter in a sport increasingly driven by contracts and endorsements.
Roczen’s decision is being celebrated by fans who have long admired his authenticity, especially after enduring multiple career-threatening injuries and grueling comebacks. He has consistently prioritized integrity over industry pressure, becoming a rare figure whose values resonate beyond the racetrack.
Industry insiders say Suzuki may now look to bolster its racing program around Roczen, who has become the brand’s most iconic ambassador since the Ricky Carmichael era.
“Ken’s commitment is bigger than a paycheck,” one Suzuki team member shared anonymously. “It’s about proving that belief and persistence still matter. We’re proud to have him in our corner.”
As for Ducati, they will continue their search for a flagship rider. But whoever steps into that role will be doing so in the shadow of Roczen’s powerful message—one that has redefined what it means to be a champion, both on and off the bike.
In an era driven by mega-deals and marketing dollars, Ken Roczen just reminded the world that some things—like loyalty—are truly priceless.
