Gulf Oil has a long history in motor racing and its distinctive baby blue and orange colour scheme, first made famous by Porsche at the Le Mans 24 Hours, is one of the most famous racing liveries to exist till date.

The global lubricants brand also has presence in other form of sports, including football through EPL team Manchester United and cricket via IPL outfit Chennai Super Kings.

“We are ecstatic to join hands with Piaggio Group’s Aprilia Racing team for the MotoGP Championship,” said Ravi Chawla, Managing Director, GOLIL.

“Gulf Oil has always associated with leading sports properties, be it cricket, football, volleyball or motorsport.

“Entry into the top flight of the motorbike racing segment enhances our adventure sports portfolio and helps us develop future-ready and top-notch lubricants. I am certain that the Indian audience will enjoy this adrenaline-filled sport”.

Aprilia has made several high-profile hirings in recent months in its bid to move up the MotoGP pecking order. Former Ferrari Sporting Director Massimo Rivola was recruited to head up its racing programme, while Bradley Smith was signed to become the team’s new test driver.

“The opportunity to move up into MotoGP, as a major partner of Aprilia Racing was a logical next step forward after World Superbikes,” explains Gulf Vice President International, Frank Rutten.

“Aprilia is one of the most successful racing marques of all time while Gulf, of course, has a long history of success in motorsport. & Making the move up to Grand Prix racing with a manufacturer that we know matches our ethos of quality, endurance and passion and our desire for progress.”

The 19-round 2019 MotoGP season begins in Qatar on March 8-10.

Credit: Rachit Thukral,Motorsport.com