Fogarty's farewell to Ducati

Ducati have parted company with the four-times World Superbike champion Carl Fogarty, adding to speculation that he will run Sauber's factory team next season.

Fogarty has declined to comment on his future but has been linked with the new Sauber team which plans to race in the World Superbike Championship next season. A statement from the Italian manufacturer said: "Ducati Motor Holding and Carl Fogarty wish to announce that they have decided to go their separate ways and dissolve their long-term relationship."

Fogarty, forced to retire last year after a racing accident, was in the first year of a three-year deal to act as a worldwide ambassador for Ducati. But after being unable to agree a deal to run a Ducati-backed team in World Superbikes it would appear Fogarty has been tempted by Sauber's offer and asked to be released from his contract.