Shane Byrne signs a one year deal with Sterilgarda Ducati

Newly crowned BSB Champion Shane Byrne will ride for the Sterilgarda Ducati squad in WSB in 2009.

Shakey who clinched the 2008 BSB crown with a third place podium finish in race one at Silverstone has signed a one year deal with a one year option to join the Italian team alongside Superstock 1000 front runner Alessandro Polita.

Sterilgarda have proved themselves in WSB this season with riders Max Biaggi and Ruben Xaus to become a top-level factory Ducati supported squad.

After months of speculation, Shakey has expressed his delight at making the switch to WSB next season along with fellow Brits Jonathan Rea, Tom Sykes, Tommy Hill and possibly Leon Haslam. Speaking exclusively to MCN He said: “It’s fantastic news for me.

"This step to Sterilgarda Ducati is a well thought out and logical plan and fundamentally the bike is going to have same character and chassis as I’ve been riding and really enjoying riding this year. I want to be World Champion one day and I can’t do that if I stay in the BSB paddock.”

Although it’s a dream move for the 31 year old double BSB champion he has also revealed just how hard it’s been to leave the Airwaves Ducati squad. “I’ve been so happy in the team this year and you’ve no idea how hard it’s been to leave. GSE have been so supportive and have given me absolutely everything I wanted and to win you need that level of support behind you.”

For the full story, exclusive interview with Shakey on his move to WSB and reaction from Airwaves Ducati see MCN out Wednesday 1 October.


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