Mika Kallio makes way for Carlos Checa

Mika Kallio has quit the Pramac Ducati squad, paving the way for Carlos Checa to make a shock return to MotoGP later this month.

Finn Kallio confirmed his withdrawal from the forthcoming Estoril and Valencia races so he can undergo surgery on a long-standing shoulder problem.

Experienced Spaniard Checa will ride Kallio’s Ducati GP10 machine at the final two races after he completed a successful test in Mugello last week.

Kallio, who is close to clinching a Moto2 ride for 2011, said:

“It is since Japan’s race that the pain in my left shoulder, injured in Le Mans race, has become too intense.

“I immediately talked to the team who understood my situation and agreed that I would try to race in Malaysia and Australia and then decide to continue or not in the last two races. Unfortunately, despite the good race today, the pain didn’t allowed me to perform in the best way, together with the Team, we decided to conclude our partnership today.

“It has been a hard choice for me, but in this way I’ll be able to find the best physical condition and think about my future.”
Kallio finished 11th in Phillip Island.