Valentino Rossi to switch for Ducati

The long-rumoured move from fellow Italian factory outfit Fiat Yamaha has yet to be confirmed, but Del Torchio's comments seem to lay to rest any doubts that it will happen.

"This season will not bring to Ducati any crown in the sport, but I look forward to Valentino Rossi teaming up with Nicky Hayden," he told Cycle World.

"Nicky is a wonderful person and a great rider. This year, he greatly contributed to improving our Desmosedici racer.

"Next year, he and Valentino will hone the bike to its ultimate winning potential."

It is thought that Rossi could officially reveal his future plans at the Czech Grand Prix in a fortnight.

Current Ducati racer Casey Stoner has already been confirmed as a Honda rider in 2011 while Yamaha are expected to promote Ben Spies - at satellite squad Tech 3 - alongside standings leader Jorge Lorenzo in the premier class.

Rossi is fifth in the World Championship but recently missed four races due to a broken leg sustained at Mugello.

Lorenzo is running away with the title, with 210 points to the 138 of nearest rival Dani Pedrosa of Honda.

Source: eurosport.co.uk