Melandri to return to WSB with Ducati?

Italian media are speculating that MotoGP refugee Marco Melandri is set to return to the World Superbike paddock in 2016, after linking up with the Althea squad that took Carlos Checa to title glory in 2011.

Melandri was left a free agent earlier this year after parting with the Aprilia MotoGP team after a series of poor results, and until recently was rumoured to be in line for a seat on Yamaha’s return to WSB – a move ruled out by the announcement of Sylvain Guintoli as Alex Lowes’ partner in the Pata Crescent team.

Currently running Matteo Baiocco and Ducati WSB test rider Niccolò Canepa in the Althea squad, it’s believed that they have requested factory machines of a similar spec to those run by the official squad.

Melandri has past history with Ducati as well, riding a disappointing season for the team in MotoGP back in 2008.