Be Wiser Ducati boss Paul Bird has said thanks and goodbye to long-time collaborator Shane Byrne who has been replaced by MotoGP exile Scott Redding for 2019.
Byrne has barely ridden this year after suffering horrendous neck and back injuries in a testing crash at Snetterton in the summer and is still wearing a neck brace.
The six-time Bennetts British Superbike Champion has not yet announced whether he will retire at the end of his year or find a new team for the 2019 season. Current rider Glenn Irwin is also leaving to replace Leon Haslam at JG Speedfit Kawasaki.
“Thanks also to our outgoing riders Shakey and Glenn. They have done a great job for us over the years, but it was time to call it a day with them and I wish them well in future,” said Bird.