Alvaro Bautista will join the Aspar Ducati squad for the 2017 MotoGP campaign.
The announcement sees the Spanish rider return to the squad that helped him burst onto the world stage by winning the 2006 MotoGP 125cc title.
The 31-year-old has spent the last two seasons riding for the factory Aprilia operation, but was left out of the manufacturer’s plans for 2017.
Aprilia has already confirmed that Aleix Espargaro and Sam Lowes will spearhead its attack next season.
Bautista believes Aspar will be able to offer him a competitive bike in 2017 as he bids to recapture past glories with the outfit.
The Spaniard will contest his eighth campaign in the premier class next year aboard a 2016 specification Ducati.
“I am happy to be returning to what was my home for many years in the World Championship, where I enjoyed my best results including the 125cc World Championship title and fought for another title in 250cc,” said Bautista.
“I am happy and motivated to be going back and especially to have another year in MotoGP, a new adventure.
“Over the years I have grown a lot and I have much more experience now. I am confident that with this team we can be competitive in 2017.”
Aspar is yet to confirm Bautista’s team-mate although current riders Eugene Laverty and Yonny Hernandez are believed to be in the frame for the ride.
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