Misano MotoGP: Suzuki deny Andrea Dovizioso signing rumours

Suzuki has denied intense speculation in Misano that Andrea Dovizioso will join Loris Capirossi in an all-Italian team in 2009.

Speculation is increasing that Aussie Chris Vermeulen will be axed, despite his intention to strike a new deal to remain on board a factory GSV-R next season. Even Suzuki boss Paul Denning said he anticipated a deal being finalised in between the Brno and Misano races, but as yet, nothing has been formally agreed and talks are on-going.

Dovizioso had seemed a certainty to take Nicky Hayden’s place in Honda’s official factory team, but rumours have been intensifying in San Marino about his Suzuki switch. The former world 125 champion even told MCN earlier this month that he had still to decide between Suzuki and Honda.

The move though has been denied by Suzuki, with a spokesman saying: “We are closer to a deal with Chris than Andrea.”

Suzuki is understood to want a final decision on Vermeulen’s future by tonight.