The outcome was feared and has just been confirmed. Between Ducati and its former World Champion Casey Stoner, it wasn't really that anymore. Tests became rarer and the Australian's role was limited to that of brand ambassador. An insufficient program, so much so that the retiree and the Borgo Panigale brand have decided to end a relationship that has lasted for three years. The following ? Maybe Honda...
Ducati announced that Casey Stoner, a two-time MotoGP champion, would not continue his role as test rider beyond the end of 2018. Casey Stoner won his first MotoGP category championship title in 2007 aboard the red bike. He had joined Ducati as a tester and brand ambassador after leaving a similar position at Honda. He was carrying out development work on the Desmosedici.
But he had not driven the GP18 since January's pre-season preliminary testing at Sepang, while recovering from right shoulder surgery. The agreement between Stoner and Ducati had lasted for three years. But it has been officially confirmed that it will not be renewed.
« I would like to thank Ducati for its good memories, and above all the support and enthusiasm of its fans for our common passion for racing and motorcycling, I will always remember it“said the 33-year-old pilot. “ Over the past three years, I have really enjoyed my work with the test team, engineers and technicians, as we worked to improve the Desmosedici GP package and I would sincerely wish the team all the best for his future projects."
Claudio Domenicali, Ducati Managing Director, added: “ Casey is and will always remain in the hearts of the Ducatisti. It is also on their behalf that we would like to thank him for the important collaboration he has offered us over the last three years. His technical indications and suggestions, as well as the work and feedback from the factory riders and Michele Pirro, helped make the Desmosedici GP one of the most competitive bikes on the grid. His development advice for our production machines was equally valuable and useful.
“Ducati and its many fans would like to express their sincere thanks and best wishes to Casey and his family for a peaceful and happy future.."
Stoner took 23 of his 38 MotoGP victories while racing for Ducati between 2007 and 2010. He then moved to Honda, where he won another title at the first attempt, before retiring at the end of 2012.
