The prestigious venue "Ruote da Sogno" witnessed the official unveiling of the 2025 Kawasaki WorldSBK and WorldSSP teams. This event marked a significant transition for Manuel Puccetti's team, evolving from a privately supported entity to an official factory team under Kawasaki’s banner. The presentation highlighted new riders, bikes, and ambitions, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating season.
The event was attended by representatives from various branches of Kawasaki and key stakeholders. Both American Garrett Gerloff and Spanish rider Jeremy Alcoba expressed their excitement and readiness for the upcoming challenges. Despite some weather disruptions during pre-season tests, both riders showed promising performance, eagerly anticipating the first round at Phillip Island in Australia.
This momentous occasion signifies the transformation of Puccetti’s team into an official Kawasaki factory squad, reflecting two decades of successful collaboration. The shift brings heightened responsibility and motivation, with the team aiming to secure podium finishes in both Superbike and Supersport categories. Kawasaki executives emphasized their confidence in the team's potential and the new riders' capabilities.
The journey to becoming a factory team has been long and arduous. For Manuel Puccetti, this represents not just a professional milestone but also a personal achievement. The support from Kawasaki Italy, Europe, and Japan underscores the significance of this transition. With a proven track record over two decades, the team is now equipped with the resources and backing needed to compete at the highest level. The presence of sponsors and stakeholders further solidifies the team's commitment to excellence. As Managing Director Shigemi Tanaka noted, the partnership between Kawasaki and Puccetti’s team is built on trust and mutual success. This foundation sets the stage for a season filled with anticipation and high expectations.
With fresh faces and cutting-edge technology, the 2025 Kawasaki teams are poised for action. Garrett Gerloff will pilot the Ninja ZX-10RR in WorldSBK, while Jeremy Alcoba debuts in WorldSSP on the new Ninja ZX-6R with its advanced 636cc engine. Both riders have shown promise during testing, eager to prove themselves against seasoned competitors.
Gerloff's enthusiasm is palpable as he prepares to race in the highly competitive WorldSBK series. His experience during pre-season tests has instilled confidence in his ability to challenge for top positions. Similarly, Alcoba, making his debut in WorldSSP, aims to make a significant impact with the potent Ninja ZX-6R. Both riders acknowledge the importance of teamwork and continuous improvement. Race Planning Manager Steve Guttridge echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement about the potential of these new pairings. The upcoming rounds at Phillip Island will be crucial in determining the team's true capabilities. The first official tests and the opening round promise to be thrilling spectacles, setting the tone for an unforgettable season ahead.