Ducati's Andrea Iannone is set to join forces with Suzuki for the 2017 season.
The 26-year old Italian has been in the premier class since 2013 with the Pramac Ducati squad for the 2013 and 2014 seasons. His impressive performances with the satellite bike made Ducati inherit him as a successor for Cal Crutchlow who left the team at the end of the 2014 season.
Andrea impressed his critics by scoring a podium in his very first race with the Factory Ducati, narrowly missing out on a podium finish in Argentina after he lost the battle with Cal Crutchlow at the very last corner of the race. He Finished second in his home race at Mugello and went on to score points in every race until he suffered a mechanical problem at the Japanese GP.
2016 however, has been a very difficult season for "The Maniac" as he failed to finish in three races out of five, took his team mate Andrea Dovizioso at the very last lap in Argentina which robbed Ducati of a potential double podium. His recent crash in Le Mans sealed Ducati's decision to oust him in favor of the more experienced and consistent Andrea Dovizioso.
Team Suzuki Ecstar's Team Manager, Davide Brivio, stated:
We're happy to have secured Andrea Iannone's services for the coming seasons. Andrea is one of the top riders in the paddock who is very passionate and motivated, which fits the Philosophy of our MotoGP Project. The Riders and technicians are working hard to improve our GSX-RR competitive and be close to the victory. We wanted a rider who can help Suzuki continue its adventure to the top, and Andrea ticked our boxes. Andrea is a fast and aggressive rider who has the hunger to win and the style to suit our GSX-RR. Having four years of experience in the GP paddock surely helps us in terms of development.
By: Suraj