Steve Mercer signs to ride Ducati 1199 Panigale at 2012 TT

Road racer and part-time MCN road tester Steve Mercer has signed with Millsport Racing to ride a new Ducati 1199 Panigale at the Isle of Man TT in 2012.

Mercer, who made his debut at the Mountain Course in 2009, will ride a Panigale in the senior, superbike and superstock races. Mercer will also be riding for the team at the North West 200, Ulster GP, Southern 100, Mondello Moasters series and during the early rounds of the British Superstock championship.

Team Boss Patrick Murray commented on the announcement: “Millsport Racing Ducati are delighted to have Steve on board our 1199 Panigale’s for the 2012 season.

“Now we are looking forward to getting on the track as early as possible in the New Year to begin a testing programme in preparation for the season ahead.”

Mercer is also excited about the new venture commenting: “I’m really looking forward to riding the new Ducati 1199 Panigale for Millsport Racing next year and I think it will be a serious machine on both roads and Circuits. 2012 can’t come soon enough.”