Simeon completes Avintia’s 2018 line-up
Moto2 race winner Xavier Simeon will make his MotoGP debut in 2018 after signing a two-year deal to join the Avintia Ducati team.
The Belgian has been a stalwart of the Moto2 class since its inception in 2010. A previous Superstock 1000 champion with Ducati, Simeon made steady progress in Moto2, achieving a breakthrough podium at Le Mans in 2013.
Simeon took his one and only grand prix victory to date in Germany in 2015, becoming the first Belgian to do so in any class since Didier de Radigues in 1990.
Currently 19th in the standings with Tasca Racing, Simeon has been long linked with a promotion to the premier class with Avintia.
“This is a fantastic opportunity and I have been working hard for it for a lot of years,” he said.
“I’m really happy to realize this dream that has followed me since my childhood. Day after day, I have done everything I can to get up there.
“My efforts, combined with those of Freddy Tacheny and Zelos’ crew ended up paying and I have to thank each of them.
“I conquered my world title in Superstock with a Ducati and I am delighted to find again the Bologna brand with the team Reale Avintia Racing.
“I’m really looking forward to discover the Ducati. Once again I would like to thank all of my partners and fans for believing in me and the support they are bringing in this new challenge.”
Simeon will join 2014 Moto2 champion Tito Rabat at the team next year, a line-up team CEO Raul Romero believes will be a formidable one.
“I’m really happy to announce that Xavi Siméon will be riding for our team next season,” said Romero.
“He is a hard worker and he has won in Moto2, a very competitive and hard-fought category.
“After several seasons in the middle class, he will step up to MotoGP with high motivation, looking forward to learn everything.
“I think he will form a great team with Tito Rabat, who is going into his third season in MotoGP and will be the reference inside the team.”
Simeon will be one of four Moto2 rider making their MotoGP debut in 2018, with Tom Luthi and Franco Morbidelli forming Marc VDS‘ line-up and Takaaki Nakagmi joining LCR Honda.
Current Avintia rider Hector Barbera confirmed on Thursday his signing to the Pons Moto2 team for 2018. Loris Baz‘ plans for next season are unknown at this stage.