BSB - Xerox Ducati consider Byrne

Eurosport - Thu, 19 Jun 13:37:00 2008

BSB star Shane Byrne is on Xerox Ducati's shortlist of riders to replace World Superbike champion Troy Bayliss.

2008 BSB Shane Byrne - 0

Kent rider Byrne has excelled on a Ducati this season with seven wins from 10 races, and has joined the likes of Max Biaggi and Nicky Hayden in the hunt to replace the veteran Australian.

The Italian team's team boss Davide Tardozzi confirmed his interest in Byrne to MCN: "Shane Byrne and Max Biaggi are on the list as are all the fast riders in the world.

"At this stage it is still a long list, not a short one.

"It is still too early to make any sort of decision, everyone knows what we are doing and everyone wants an offer, but we want to wait until things get more serious on track."

Ducati may also look to replace Michele Fabrizio, leaving both seats open, and Byrne has openly stated his desire to move to WSB.

"I've had no talks with anyone yet about 2009 but it's no secret that I would love to go to World Superbikes," he said.

"But my current team doesn't know where they are yet and I want to see what they want to do next year as well.

"Of course I want to go to WSB. I had the opportunity to go in 2005 but I decided to stick with MotoGP and looking back at it I might still be in WSB if I'd gone then."

Alex Chick / Eurosport

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  1. They could do a lot worse than Shakey that's for sure. I think he'd be the best choice alongside younger rider so Shakey could bring him along. Leon Haslam would be up for it, not only can he ride a Ducati he also knows the World Superbike tracks and Pirelli tyres.

    From g.gcww, on Thu 26 Jun 12:31PM

  2. Move over Melandri !!!!

    From highmittenholidaycottages, on Mon 23 Jun 12:59PM

  3. I agree with Shakey being the first choice for Xerox Ducati. Top class rider given the best factory machine he'll shine without a doubt and win races. I think Shakey should have gone to WSBK rather than Motogp long ago. Now James T has gone to Motogp it would be great to see a British rider doing the business again and winning the championship.

    Cheers everyone Davey H in Thailand

    From s.buathin, on Sat 21 Jun 6:29PM

  4. its got to be shakey! biaggi is a has been and throws his dummy out of his pram too often!

    From pporgy, on Fri 20 Jun 2:57PM

  5. Shakey would be an excellent choice. They need a young charger. I can understand Biaggi being considered because of the Italian link and he is still quick but I think it would be better to go for a younger, proven performer. Shakey & Xaus would be a great pairing but Ducati whatever you decide...........please please don't go for Hayden

    From David S, on Wed 18 Jun 4:29PM

  6. Shakey has always been a top class rider, unfortunately in the past due to inferior machinery or budget constraints he has never before been able to show his true ability.

    From wolfy, on Wed 18 Jun 2:44PM
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