- New Ducati Formula ’73 model listed in US documents for 2026
- Use of the 803 cm³ V Twin from the Scrambler series
- Possible homage to the 1973 Ducati 750 SS
Following the official announcement that Ducati’s 100th anniversary in 2026 will be marked by numerous activities and special models, there are now increasing indications of a first concrete anniversary bike. This is based on an updated list of homologated motorcycles from the California Environmental Protection Agency CARB for the 2026 model year.
Homologation provides first clue about the Formula ’73
The name Ducati Formula ’73 appears for the first time in the California Air Resources Board’s documents. The model is listed there alongside the Ducati Scrambler and the Scrambler Full Throttle for the year 2026. It is striking that the Formula ’73 is not explicitly referred to as a Scrambler, although according to the documentation, it is to use the same air-cooled V Twin with a displacement of 803 cm³.
This confirms that the new Formula ’73 is technically based on the existing Scrambler platform. Whether the model will officially become part of the Scrambler family or be positioned as a separate series cannot be deduced from the documents.
Historical reference to the 1973 Ducati 750 SS
The name Formula ’73 is most likely no coincidence. It refers to the Ducati 750 Supersport Desmo, which was introduced in 1973. This model was based on the 750 Sport and was closely linked to motorsport. The impetus for series production came after the much-acclaimed double victory of Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari at the Imola 200 in 1972.
The 750 Imola Desmo racing machines used competed in the FIM Formula 750 series. It is precisely from this racing class that the name of the new Formula ’73 is likely to be derived. The 750 SS went on to achieve further sporting successes, including winning the Italian championship with Franco Uncini in 1975.
It remains to be seen whether Ducati plans to base the Formula ’73 closely on the historic 750 SS in terms of appearance or whether it will simply use the name as a reference. Both a modern interpretation and a deliberately classic special model are possible.
Special anniversary model likely
At this point in time, only the model name and the engine used are known. No information is available on performance, chassis, weight, or equipment. Information on price and market availability is also completely lacking.
However, in the context of the company’s 100th anniversary, it is likely that Ducati will position the Formula ’73 as a special edition. Whether the number of units will be limited to 100 or based on the number 73 is pure speculation and has not yet been confirmed.
Production and other unanswered questions
The CARB documents list two variants of the Formula ’73. One of them has the suffix “T.” According to this designation, this model is to be manufactured in Thailand. A similar note can also be found on one of the Scrambler Full Throttle versions for 2026.
It is not known when Ducati will officially unveil the Formula ’73. However, a presentation at the beginning of the anniversary year 2026 seems likely. Until then, many details remain unclear, including whether it will be a limited-time model or a regular addition to the range.
