Manager expects Capirossi to move

Carlo Pernat told the official MotoGP website that while Capirossi would like to stay at Ducati, he also has strong options at Kawasaki and Suzuki. A decision is expected within the next month.

"We hope that after the race at Laguna Seca, Ducati will confirm what their plans are for Loris," Pernat said.

"Kawasaki and Suzuki are interested in him, and I believe that before the race at Brno we will find out where his future lies."

Capirossi has struggled to match his new teammate Casey Stoner this season - taking just one podium while the Australian swept to five wins and established a comfortable championship lead.

Pernat now believes that a move to a new team is the most likely outcome.

"The main goal is to continue with Ducati obviously, after five years together," he said.

"However I believe he is closer to moving than to staying.

"It's a question of motivation, confronting a new challenge - moving to a new team would be good for that.

"Kawasaki haven't hidden their intentions to team Loris up with John Hopkins, but Suzuki also need a strong rider with experience to replace John in developing bike."

Although Ducati have been a dominant force for much of the season, Pernat said that a move away would not necessarily be a step down.

"The market is wide open at the moment, and I think this situation owes to the fact that all the bikes are very competitive this year," he said.

"Ducati have a very good bike, but the other manufacturers are also at a high level."