Misano MotoGP Reaction: Alvaro Bautista shuns MotoGP

Alvaro Bautista has confirmed he won’t be switching to the MotoGP class in 2009.

The Misano 250GP winner has agreed to stay on a factory Aprilia in the 250 series next season, despite being linked with Ducati and Kawasaki rides in MotoGP.

Bautista had talks with Ducati about a slot in its satellite team, while he was also in line for a third factory Kawasaki ZX-RR.

Current team boss Jorge Martinez is to run a third Kawasaki in 2009 in a deal to be confirmed soon, and Bautista was hotly-tipped for the ride.

But he wants to stay in 250GPs before moving in 2010 and the Spaniard said: “I’m really happy to renew my contract because I am so comfortable with the set-up at Mapfre Aspar. The mechanics and team structure are unbeatable.

“Now that we have re-signed with Jorge for 2009 I feel much more relaxed and I’m ready to continue my education in this category.”

Martinez’s Kawasaki berth is likely to go to Toni Elias, though his two podiums in two races have significantly upped his chances of staying with the Alice Ducati squad.