Suzuki confirm Capirossi deal

The 34-year-old from Bologna had already announced his decision to leave Ducati for Suzuki following a disappointing season at the Italian squad.

He will join Australian Chris Vermeulen at Suzuki.

"I am really happy because after five years with Ducati this is a very good time to change," said Capirossi. "I have been talking a lot with the guys from Suzuki and for me it is a really really interesting time and a very big change.

"I just cannot wait for the first time to jump on the bike. This will be important for me and for all the team.

"Suzuki looks in a good shape at the moment. Already the bike is good and we have three more tests this year to work on it and make more developments.

"My motivation is 100% focused on that moment and I have new toys in my hand! I am really happy to be going to Suzuki and start working with my new team - the first time I ride the bike will be the best moment for me.

"After 18 years in Grand Prix racing I think I don't have many more seasons, so I want to prepare my body and condition myself 110%, and try to do the best I can to challenge again for the championship."

Capirossi will begin evaluating the 2007 and 2008 versions of the prototype 800cc GSV-R during a two-day test at Valencia this week.

Team Manager Paul Denning added: "The race team and all the staff at Suzuki headquarters are very happy and excited to be able to announce Loris as our new rider for 2008. He brings experience, determination and excitement to Suzuki's Grand Prix team and - most important of all - the motivation, knowledge and self confidence to win.

"2007 has not been the best of seasons for Loris, but there is no doubt that his ability and drive to win is 100% as he showed in Japan. Suzuki has improved its motorcycle massively and I am sure his knowledge will be a big influence in the future development of the GSV-R.

"I also believe that he will be a great teammate for Chris. I'm positive they will be battling hard every weekend but also working well together off the track.

"We see the agreement with Loris as the next step in Suzuki's road back to challenging for the MotoGP World Championship, and we can't wait to see him giving it everything on the GSV-R as soon as possible!"