Fausto Gresini and Marco Melandri Together In 2007 - October 7th 2006

Marco Melandri will continue to ride for the Gresini Honda Team in MotoGP next season having signed a one -year deal with Fausto Gresini.

The renewal of the contract was announced this morning by Fausto Gresini during the official ceremony of the 35th Anniversary of Honda Italy in Atessa (CH).

Riding a RC211V since 2005, Marco Melandri and the team run by Fausto Gresini have claimed so far 5 wins and 14 podiums in total. The 24 Italian rider, who last year finished second in the championship, this season claimed three victories and is still fighting for the Title. The agreement ensures him to look with confidence to the next season that sees MotoGP enters an exciting new era with the new 800cc rules coming into effect in 2007.

Marco Melandri: "I'm really happy that we continue working with FaustoGresini. For me it was very important to find a team that allowed me to work at the top and at ease. Now we have all the elements to do a big step forward. After two difficult months, I'm happy to keep on working with Fausto Gresini who has always believed in me, supporting me in all situations. After two years together I look confident to next year and hope to reach important goals. I'm really happy with the team around me, we're all working well together. Now I can focus on the two final races, trying to do my best every GP".

Fausto Gresini: "I'm very pleased to announce the renewal of the contract with Marco Melandri for the 2007 season. This was our main target and today we are really happy to have met it. I have always believed in Marco's potential, and during these two seasons together he has reached greatresults, demonstrating to be a top rider and gaining in Honda's estimation . It's a great pleasure to make this announcement in occasion of the 35th Anniversary of Honda Italy with which we have a long lasting and active cooperation. Now we can start working to complete the team with Marco team mate. We hope to confirm soon a strong line up, as it has been in the past three season that has seen a rider of our team finishing second in the championship ".