Marco Melandri clinches Ducati deal alongside Casey Stoner

Marco Melandri has signed a two-year contract to join Ducati’s factory squad next season, while Laguna Seca race winner Casey Stoner has extended his deal with the Bologna factory to the end of the 2009 campaign.

Melandri needed to be placed in the top six in the points standings after today’s Laguna Seca clash to automatically secure a two-year deal with Ducati.

He braved the pain of a nasty left ankle injury to claim third and secure his contract.
Stoner had already agreed an extension to his contract for 2008 earlier this season, but has signed a long-term deal to stay with his Italian squad in 2009, with an option for 2010 included too.