Ducati Re-signs Hayden

Hayden, coming off his first podium result of the season, will return in 2010 to race for Ducati Marlboro alongside Casey Stoner.

The contract extension comes days after Haydens first podium result on the Ducati Desmosedici at Indianapolis Motor Speedway with his parents and racing brothers watching. The podium finish was the first factory Ducati rider not named Stoner to reach the podium since Loris Capirossi in 2007.

This has been a very good week and this news just adds to that, says Hayden. After the good result in Indy, now to renew the deal with Ducati is exactly what I wanted. Im very happy. I always had faith and believed that we could achieve good results. Im excited for these last five races of the 09 season, and if you look at the progression we have made from the start of the season to the middle, hopefully we will continue this through to the end. I just wish to say a big thanks to all the guys who made this happen, especially everybody in Ducati as well as all our sponsors and Im sure Ill be able to do a good job next year and to continue to build with, and be part of, the Ducati family.

Despite attempts to lure away Fiat Yamaha s Jorge Lorenzo, Ducati Motor Holding Manager Claudio Domenicali says Hayden was part of the teams 2010 plans all along.

The confirmation of Nicky is the right reward to a rider who has shown to perfectly embody the frame of mind that characterizes Ducati - Passion, Determination and Commitment, says Domenicali.. We have always considered Nicky to be an important asset to the Ducati 2010 strategy and we are very happy that he will remain in the Ducati Marlboro Team. His progression through the season has been constant up to the podium in Indianapolis and we are certain that the experience he has gained will be decisive for a 2010 season full of success.

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