Marco Melandri says he is likely to learn if he will race for Ducati at the Czech Grand Prix this week.

The Italian has endured a dismal season with Ducati following his switch from the Honda Gresini satellite team.

Melandri has scored 32 points in ten races, while teammate Casey Stoner has managed 187, including four victories.

Ducati said Melandri's performance in the last two races in Germany and Laguna Seca would be crucial when deciding on the rider's future. The Italian fell in Germany and finished in 16th position in the USA.

Melandri says he would like to complete the season, but he is aware that he could lose his ride, with Sete Gibernau tipped as the favourite to replace him after having tested for the team twice.

"This week will be decisive to understand whether I'll be able to complete the season on the saddle of my Ducati, or if Gibernau will take my place," Melandri wrote on his website.

"Well, I'd like to complete it: I think in these last two races a step forward was taken, and more could be forthcoming. In any case, I must really thank all the guys in my team, because this first part of the season has been hard for me as it's been for them.

"I can say that we've all been good at always staying clear-minded, even when things were disastrous: no one ever lost control and the relationships have remained very balanced. I'd truly like to get on the podium at least once for their satisfaction."

link-http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/69409

I dunno about ending the season, hes had his chances to make a step forward and it wasn't big enough.

He's fuckin done. I think both parties involved are chomping at the bit to end the misery.

It could be worse, he could be Ant West. He is 10 points up on him, Westy could make that up in 10 to 20 races.

I bet you Sete is practising his "I'm out to get you Rossi" stare in the mirror right now...

I also bet that Nicki is humming the desmo theme song (whatever that is) while he's feedin' the hogs...

Brno will have 1 extra bike on the grid, but what if Westy beats Marco on that bike?

Cut him loose, in the dry at sachsenring he was still shite. You know the Ducati suits a circuit well when Elias finishes in single digits. Both riders will return to the back, luckily for them West is even slower. Bye bye, you can keep the leathers as a souvenir.

Where does Melandri go next year? Kawasaki or back a satellite honda?

Does MM expect it, or does he want the decision made this week?

The reported constant bleatings from MM and others gives me no doubt that he has a reason to get out and fast. Just what that reason is (other than pure mental well being ) I have no idea, but it just sounds like a guy who has options.





Garry