Yes, the Rossi move to Ducati is pretty much a done deal with Nicky as his partner. Spies will take his place at Yamaha next to Lorenzo and Honda has signed Stoner to ride with Pedrosa. So where the "aliens" are going to be next year is pretty much set.
- Mark
The Rossi-Ducati announcement was the worst kept secret EVER.
I'm not gonna create any drama where there isn't any, but, some things to think about
a) Nicky's contract is up for renewal. The contract is all but final, but, good chance they'll make the announcement at Indy.
b ) Lorenzo has not yet signed with Yamaha
c) Pedrosa has not yet signed with Honda
d) Respol is reported to have an agreement with Honda that there will be at least 1 Spaniard on the team. Lorenzo and Pedrosa are both Spaniards. Hmmmm
e) Dovi had a clause in his contract that he has the option to stay with Honda if he's 5th or better in the points halfway through the season. Well, he is, but, not sure what Honda is gonna do with him as the Red Bull deal for an additional 1-rider team with full factory support has fallen through.
f) Burgess hasn't announced if he's going to Ducati with Rossi. If he stays at Yamaha, doubtful he would go with Lorenzo. Assuming Spies gets the nod, and no one expects him not to, does Burgess go with Spies and, if so, what happens to Houseworth? Take a demotion to stay with Ben (they've been together for years), stay with Tech 3, or come back to the US to do whatever with whoever, or go to WSBK to go with whoever?