There have been some major shake ups on the WorldSBK grid for 2019, leaving some big-name riders without a ride. Today, one of those big names found a home.
The Go Eleven Team announced they had signed Eugene Laverty to race a Ducati Panigale V4 R in the WorldSBK championship for the 2019 season.
“I’m delighted to join Team Go Eleven to ride the new Ducati Panigale V4 R in 2019! The past five weeks has been a stressful period so it’s great to secure a competitive seat in the end,” said Laverty.
“The support from Ducati is reassuring and I’m confident that we will have a package to fight for victory next season. Thank you to Denis Sacchetti and everyone at Team Go Eleven for putting their trust in me!”
That Laverty should return to a Ducati is hardly a surprise. The Irishman has maintained close links to the Italian factory, and has always had a good relationship with Ducati Corse boss Gigi Dall’Igna.
Laverty had been linked to other teams considering running Ducatis before finally signing with Go Eleven.
Laverty’s arrival means the loss of Ramon Ramos, who has to make way for the Irishman. But, the switch from Kawasaki and the promise of support from Ducati, coupled with Laverty’s proven potential as a WorldSBK race winner made it an easy choice.
Laverty’s signing sees one big name return to the grid, but others remain without a seat. Xavi Fores found a seat in the British BSB Superbike championship, but Jordi Torres and Loris Baz remain unsigned.
More announcements are expected in the coming weeks, as the WorldSBK teams finalize their plans.
Source: Go Eleven Team
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