Suzuki has confirmed its split with Andrea Iannone after two seasons at the end of the 2018 MotoGP season. The Italian joined the Japanese manufacturer in 2017 together with Alex Rins to replace Maverick Vinales and Alexis Espargaro.
Iannone announced his move during last weekend’s Italian Grand Prix at Mugello with Suzuki confirming it on Friday, adding that the teamm will reveal its new rider as soon as they are ready to announce it.
The statement from the manufacturer stated:”All the Suzuki family is extremely grateful to Andrea for his contribution to the growth of the MotoGP project and the development of the GSX-RR, as well as the positive results they have achieved together.
“As the 2018 season is still underway, the Team and the factory will continue their unconditional support of Andrea, looking forward to even better results in the remaining races.
“We wish all the best to Andrea Iannone for a bright and successful future, Team Suzuki ECSTAR and the Suzuki Motor Corporation are now working on the definition of the 2019/20 rider line-up, with particular regards to the rider who will partner Alex Rins aboard the Factory GSX-RR. Updates will be give as soon as ready.”
The speculations suggests Moto2 rider Joan Mir will step up to partner with Rins, after spending just the one season in the intermediate class having won the Moto3 title in the 2017 season.
The Spaniard was also in contention for a seat in Honda but opted to join Suzuki with Honda then luring in Jorge Lorenzo. Iannone, meanwhile, is poised to join Aprilia to ride alongside Espargaro replacing Scott Redding.