Melandri hopes for positive goodbye

Eurosport - Tue, 30 Oct 15:07:00 2007

Marco Melandri has said that he is looking for a positive end to the Moto GP season and his career at Gresini Honda.

MOTORCYCLING - 2007 Misano Saint Marin Honda melandri Gresini - 0

Melandri suffered two disastrous seasons at Yamaha - finishing 15th and 12th in the world championship - before an instant transformation with the team in 2005, finishing second behind only Valentino Rossi.

Injuries during 2006 left Marco fourth in the final title chase although his three wins were more than any other Honda rider - and it was rumoured he had secured extra HRC support for 2007.

However he is yet to win a race in 2007 - but will look for a third podium finish to secure fourth spot overall again before leaving to become a factory Ducati rider next year.

"I'd like to finish off the season with another good result. I've got some great memories of this circuit, especially my victory there in 2005," said Melandri.

"Second place in Malaysia at a circuit where I've never scored good results in the past, and where it looked as though the characteristics of the track would not suit my bike or riding style, have given me an extra boost.

"The package of bike and tyres worked perfectly there and I'm confident.

"My aim is to confirm fourth place in the championship and give Fausto and the team one last reason to celebrate after three great years together."

Crash / Eurosport