Althea Ducati's Carlos Checa has commenced the World Superbike test programme for the new Panigale at a very cold Motorland Aragon this morning.

The Spanish former champion hasn't yet announced that he will be returning to the team for 2013 but as he is riding round on one, it would seem logical that he is. Max Biaggi is also at the circuit with the Aprilia, giving rise to the rumour he is not retiring after all.