Mika Kallio will be promoted from Ducati's Alice satellite team to the Italian manufacturer's works squad for the next three races, starting in the Czech Republic this weekend. The Finn will be replacing the unfortunate Casey Stoner, who is left on the sidelines with health issues.
With Stoner having taken the painstaking decision to pull out of three races, which effectively ends his chances of snatching back the championship title, Kallio was notified of the rider switch by telephone. "When I took the call I could hardly believe it but then I talked to my manager and I realised it was true!" said the shocked 26-year-old, who finished third in the 250cc class in 2008.
"I am proud to be racing the next three events with the Ducati Marlboro Team. Obviously I'm not expecting to suddenly be a second quicker, because our bikes are very similar to the official machines, but I hope to be able to pick up some good results for the team.
"I would particularly like to thank Paolo Campinoti, who has allowed me to enjoy this incredible opportunity - it will be a real honour for me. Nonetheless, I would like to send my best wishes to Casey and I hope to see him back out on track as soon as possible."
"I want to thank Ducati and Pramac for this gift!" added new Alice rider Fabrizio. "Brno is my favorite track and therefore the right place to come back to riding a MotoGP 800 after the last time, which was at Sachsenring in 2007. I know that I can't expect a lot, because the GP9 is much different compare to my 1198 F09, but the priority is to have some fun and enjoy a different weekend for me! All the best to Casey - I'm hoping he is back on top form as soon as possible!"
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