MotoGP: Xavier Simeon completes 2018 grid

Xavier Simeon will complete the 2018 MotoGP grid after finally confirming this afternoon that he will join the Reale Avintia Ducati team, confirming a rumour that has bene circulating the MotoGP paddock for a number of weeks.

The news of the two-year deal comes as the Belgian suffers through a difficult Moto2 season, currently sitting on the periphery of the top 20 in the middleweight class – but the 28-year-old says he’s confident that he can turn it around for next season.

“This is a fantastic opportunity and I have been working hard for it for a lot of years. I’m really happy to realize this dream that has followed me since my childhood. Day after day, I have done everything I can to get up there. My efforts, combined with those of Freddy Tacheny and Zelos’ crew ended up paying and I have to thank each of them.

“I conquered my world title in Superstock with a Ducati and I am delighted to find again the Bologna brand with the team Reale Avintia Racing. I’m really looking forward to discover the Ducati. Once again I would like to thank all of my partners and fans for believing in me and the support they are bringing in this new challenge!”

And personal sponsor Freddy Tachney, CEO of Zelos and a key man in making the deal happen for Simeon, says it’s the achievement of a life’s ambition to see a Belgian in the premier class again.

“I founded Zelos five years ago with only one ambition: make every effort to ensure that our Belgian athletes reach the highest level of their discipline. We haven’t seen a Belgian rider in the MotoGP class since a very long time, Today, I’m therefore particularly proud and moved about this process. Our country has the real potential to shine when it is given the means.

“For sure, it was not really easy but we found and convince our partners to join the adventure. With them, this opportunity became reality. I have to thank each of them a lot and especially Raúl Romero, CEO of Reale Avintia Racing. I am delighted about this 2 years partnership. Xavier has all our confidence to take up this magnificent challenge. He is the spearhead of the pathway we’ve created in Belgium.”