WSBK: Shakey joins expanded Althea programme

Shane Byrne has been announced as Team Althea’s second rider for 2010, joining Spaniard Carlos Checa at the Italian squad.

Althea is expanding its programme next season, running two bikes for the first time and switching from Honda to Ducati.

Two-time British Superbike Champion Byrne enjoyed his first full season in the World Superbike Championship with the Sterilgarda Ducati team, finishing eighth in the standings and second among the privateer entries.

“I'm extremely happy to say that I will join the Althea Ducati racing team for the 2010 WSB championship,” said Byrne.

“Genesio Bevilacqua has been fantastic and from my talks with him so far I already understand he is a very serious, enthusiastic and ambitious person, he has put together a fantastic package that should enable both Carlos and I the opportunity to fight at a very high level so I look forward to this new adventure.

“Remaining on a Ducati motorcycle was very important to me and I think in Team Althea Ducati I've found the perfect place, a good bike, a very strong and experienced team mate and an extremely motivated team so I can't wait to get started!”

Checa has already been announced with the team next year, having switched from Ten Kate Honda, and Team Principal Genesio Bevilacqua is delighted with his rider line-up.

“I’m really enthusiastic to have signed Shane Byrne for our 2010 team. He’s proved to be a very skillful and successful rider in world Superbike and I’m sure he will be a great combination with Carlos Checa,” he said.

“Shakey is an experienced and spirited rider, with him we are certain we’ll be able to challenge with the best and official 2010 Superbike world championship teams.

“We worked hard to organize a strong technical staff that will support in the best possible way our two competitive riders.”

Watch the World Superbike Championship on Motors TV.


Andy Wilkinson