2002 saw the introduction of a revolution in Grand Prix motorcycle racing - where the 500cc era was replaced by the 990cc MotoGP formula.
Overnight, Formula 1 technology was introduced into the sport - with a huge increase in power that enabled these exceptional machines to reach speeds of over 200 mph.
The thrills and drama of the sport increased in line with the power, and this era is rightly seen as the most thrilling and extraordinary period - with epic rider rivalries, incredible racing dramas and a constant push for more performance and better results from the leading teams.
This 2003 GP3 is at the heart of the whole period - the final outing for a ‘First Series’ Ducati and a podium weekend ride for racing legend Troy Bayliss at the 2003 German Grand Prix.
Presented in the complete period Marlboro livery and with the original scrutineers label in place, this Ducati is a triumph of both cutting-edge engineering and game-changing design. It captures a moment in time that defined the future direction of motorcycle racing and ushered in one of the greatest racing series in history.
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Acquired direct from Ducati Corse at the close of the 2003 season
Ducati collector Tony O'Neill agreed the purchase of this GP3 at the close of the 2003 season direct from the Ducati Works team and added it to his collection - where it remained until it was acquired by the vendor in 2010.
As the final outing for a ‘First Series’ Ducati and a podium weekend ride for racing legend Troy Bayliss at the 2003 German Grand Prix, it's an important part of MotoGP history and offers a remarkable opportunity.
2003 German MotoGP at Sachsenring