Laverty ‘hopeful’ of Yamaha WSB deal

World Supersport contender Eugene Laverty could find out by the end of the week if he has secured the factory Sterilgarda Yamaha R1 ride alongside Marco Melandri in 2011.

The 23 year old Irishman has been locked in negotiations with Yamaha bosses in an effort to secure the coveted ride and believes that a decision is imminent.

MCN understands that Laverty is competing against fellow Brit Leon Haslam and Italian Michel Fabrizio for the ride.

Yamaha are thought to want to make their decision soon which could rule out Haslam who is mid way through a two year deal and is still waiting to hear what support is available from Suzuki for next season.

Fabrizio remains a strong possibility but it is un-clear whether Yamaha would want two Italian riders in the team, which could play into the hands of Laverty.

Speaking to MCN, Laverty said. “I’ve been speaking with Yamaha a lot and I’m expecting a decision pretty soon. It’s not confirmed but I’m hopeful.

Laverty has won seven WSS races so far in 2010 and is currently in a titanic battle with series leader Kenan Sofuoglu to become World Champion.

The two men are currently separated by 12 points with two rounds and 50 points still available.