Hodgson was tipped as the next great British rider after claiming seventh in his home Grand Prix and earning a dream move to the Ducati factory squad for the 1996 World Superbike Championship.

BBC: SPORT | Motorsport | Motorbikes | Hodgson looks to future

The 27-year-old Melandri was runner-up in the world championship in 2005 but was less successful last year with Ducati and has done well with limited resources at Hayate this season.

CNN: Rossi races to MotoGP pole despite Brno fall

Known for its four-stroke 90-degree V-twin engines and its unique valve design, Ducati has carved out an impressive racing record, highlighted by its 2007 Grand Prix World Championship win.

WSJ: At the Heart of Ducati