Melandri Close to Joining Kawasaki
Melandri close to joining Kawasaki
According to a report on MotoGPs official website, the Italian racer and former 250cc World Champion will join Kawasaki after completing the 2008 season with Ducati Marlboro.
Melandri has had a difficult 2008 season, currently sitting 15th in the overall standings. His best result this season was a fifth-place finish in the Chinese Grand Prix May 4. Melandri joined Ducati for the 2008 season to replace Loris Capirossi. Prior to racing for Ducati, Melandri had competed for Honda and Yamaha.
Speculation around the paddocks was that Ducati was unsatisfied with Melandris performance and were looking for alternative options to race alongside reigning MotoGP Champion Casey Stoner. Rumors drew further life when former MotoGP racer Sete Gibernau joined Ducati as a test rider and displayed impressive results. Ironically, Gibernau and Melandri were teammates with Honda in 2005 when Melandri finished second in the championship behind Valentino Rossi.
Bartholemy has also confirmed on MotoGPs website that a two-year deal with Melandri was in the works but still awaits approval from Kawasaki. Once the contract is approved, Bartholemy says Melandri will race with Hopkins in 2009.
Melandris arrival raises questions about the future about Hopkins current teammate Anthony West. Bartholemy says he may be offered a position with Kawasaki in a different championship series. A third Kawasaki machine on the 2009 MotoGP grid may also be an option.
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