Ducati will field a Panigale V4 R in the 2019/2020 FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC) after partnering with former BMW squad Team ERC Endurance.

It’s understood the team, which will switch to the Italian manufacturer from the 8 Hours of Sepang next month, will receive significant technical support from the factory.

“My passion for the brand and my personal collection of Ducati bikes had little to do with the decision to start up a partnership with Ducati,” said Team ERC manager Uwe Reinhardt. “What really counted was the fast, efficient and substantial commitment they immediately put in place and the support they will be providing throughout the season.

“It’s obviously been a big challenge getting ready to race at Sepang, but we’re under no pressure. It’ll be a trial run in race conditions. As for Le Mans, our only goal will be to cross the finish line of the 24 Heures.”

Ducati Corse sporting director Paolo Ciabatti added: “Team ERC Endurance has support from Ducati, and Ducati Corse electronics engineers will be at each race. The machines use World Superbike technical specifications, and have been prepared at the Ducati Corse workshop by Team ERC’s mechanics with support from our engineers.”

The 8 Hours of Sepang, marking the second stop of the world championship, is scheduled for 14 December.