The following is from Rahal Ducati Moto…
Rahal Ducati Moto (RDM) is gearing up for an exciting 2026 MotoAmerica Season. The rider lineup includes seasoned veterans PJ Jacobsen and Kayla Yaakov, alongside one of MotoAmerica’s youngest and most promising riders, Alessandro Di Mario. With new and returning sponsors fueling the team’s momentum, RDM is ready to write its next chapter.
PJ Jacobsen Steps Up to Superbike with XPEL
One of the paddock’s fiercest competitors, PJ Jacobsen, will make his return to the Superbike class with RDM and the Ducati Panigale V4 R in 2026. Armed with the support of XPEL, a global leader in protective films and coatings for automotive, marine, and architectural applications, Jacobsen is set to battle in MotoAmerica’s premier race class. “The move to Superbike will be a huge opportunity, not only for me but for the entire team,” said Jacobsen. “I’m grateful that they chose me as the rider—next year is going to be awesome! The last two years with RDM, along with the incredible backing of our sponsors, have given me the tools to fight hard in both championship seasons. I’m privileged to be a part of the program that Graham [Rahal] has put together. It’s a dream come true.”
For Rahal Ducati Moto, it marks a milestone moment: their first full-time attack on the Superbike field.“We are very excited about the 2026 season,” said Ben Spies, RDM Team Principal. “We have a strong relationship with Ducati, and we’re looking forward to the debut of their new Superbike. PJ is an incredible talent, and we’re confident he’ll bring a lot of excitement to the Superbike class.”
Kayla Yaakov Returns to Supersport with Droplight
Rahal Ducati Moto is proud to announce the new primary sponsor of Kayla Yaakov’s No. 19 Ducati Panigale V2: Droplight, a solutions-driven organization that empowers corporations, small businesses, venture capital funds, startups, and nonprofit organizations to achieve sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and enhanced market impact. “I’m incredibly excited to welcome Droplight to my 2026 season,” said Yaakov. “It means a lot to have a partner that not only supports my journey on the track but also reflects my core values. I can’t wait to showcase what we can achieve together.” With an impressive 2025 season to date, including 13 top ten placements, Yaakov will continue to advance, showcasing Droplight’s commitment to innovation and motorsports.
“At Droplight, we believe in investing in the future – not just of business, but of individuals blazing bold new paths,” said Todd Stephens, Chief Relationships Officer for Droplight. “Supporting Kayla Yaakov through the Rahal Ducati Moto team is a natural extension of our commitment to the Rahal ecosystem and to the rising stars who embody grit, growth, and greatness. Kayla represents everything we value: courage, character, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. We’re proud to be part of her journey.”
Alessandro DiMario Joins Supersport with Roller Die + Forming
New to the team in 2026, 16-year-old Alessandro Di Mario will make his full Supersport-season debut riding for Rahal Ducati Moto with the support of Roller Die + Forming, a custom roll forming and metal fabrication company with over 60 years of industry experience. Di Mario, a promising young rider and 2x Twins Cup Champion, will bring fresh energy to the program as he begins his journey at the national level.
“I am excited to develop Alessandro as a rider and see his growth in the Supersport class,” said Richie Alexander, RDM Team Manager. “His resume speaks for itself, and we couldn’t be happier to welcome him to the RDM Team.”
Looking Ahead to 2026
“I’m proud of how quickly Rahal Ducati Moto has grown and the caliber of people involved in this program,” said Graham Rahal, Team Owner. “With PJ moving into Superbike, Kayla continuing to make her mark in Supersport, and Alessandro joining us, 2026 is shaping up to be a milestone year. We’re committed to building a winning culture and competing at the highest level, and this lineup shows we’re on the right path.”
The team is proud to continue supporting Corey Alexander in his racing career within the Moto America paddock. We look forward to witnessing his continued growth and success on the track. With his dedication, skill, and commitment to excellence, Corey is well-positioned to achieve strong results.
With a talented rider roster and the continued support of world-class partners, Rahal Ducati Moto enters the 2026 MotoAmerica season with confidence. The team will contest both the Superbike and Supersport categories, further establishing its role as a growing force in American motorcycle racing.
