Is Ducati racing towards a float?

Ducati, one of the most famous names in motorbikes, may soon be up for sale, according to reports at the weekend. The private equity group Investindustrial, which has owned Ducati for the past three years, is said to be readying it for sale. Ducati made a profit of about £79m last year, and a price tag of £875m is rumoured.

The company was founded by three brothers 85 years ago, and moved into the bike business in 1950. Ownership has changed several times in recent years, but it is still active in motor racing, including the MotoGP World Championship.

If nothing else, a Ducati float would allow enthusiasts to own some unusually evocative share certificates.