In one season, Andrea Dovizioso's image has evolved very favorably and he is now one of the top drivers. As such, it is therefore among those most desired for 2019. Ducati wants to keep it, but there have been several rumors of contacts with Honda and Yamaha.
Dovi drove for Honda for four years, from 2008 to 2011, winning the British Grand Prix at Donington for the world's leading manufacturer in 2009, ahead of Colin Edwards and Randy de Puniet. He then rode a season for Yamaha at Tech 3, finishing on the podium in Catalonia, the Netherlands, Germany, the United States, Italy and Aragon. He finished fourth in the World Championship that year, after finishing third on Honda the previous year.
He moved to Ducati in 2013, with 7 victories now obtained on Desmosedici, including 6 this year. Its value has therefore increased, as recognized Paolo ciabatti, Ducati Sports Director: “ The level of salary negotiation is always based on results. A driver with a good track record, having won several races like Dovi did this year, will be in a stronger position when negotiating. I'm sure when the time comes we'll have to consider that he's won seven races for Ducati, and hopefully even more by then. »
In 2016, Dani Pedrosa experienced serious problems with his forearms, and he had to withdraw from the Grands Prix of Japan, Australia and Malaysia. He was not sure then that he would be able to continue his career. The Director of the Repsol Honda team at the time, Livio Suppo, who recently left the team, explained that “ It's no secret that last year, when there was the possibility of Dani leaving, we spoke with Dovi. We like him, know his value and know he is a good driver. »
“Honestly, everyone in this paddock did not expect the season he had in 2017. We are very happy for him. We spoke to him, but without going into depth because everyone is under contract for 2018."
To Lynn Jarvis, Executive Director of Yamaha in MotoGP, the recruitment of Dovizioso is not an objective: “ There is no basis for these rumors, but I have a lot of respect for Andrea. You reap what you sow, and in Andrea's case, it didn't happen by chance because he has already been involved in the project for five years. »
“He evolved with the bike. This year all the stars aligned for Dovi and he had a phenomenal season. For his part, I believe that the best thing for him is to stay at Ducati. »
Photo © Ducati
Source: tuttomotoriweb.com
