Franco Morbidelli will switch to the Ducati camp for the 2024 MotoGP World Championship after confirming his signing to Pramac Racing.

The Italian had been the hot favourite to land one of what is currently one of the most competitive seats on the grid after Johann Zarco chose to defect to Honda for 2024.

It marks a change of fortunes for Morbidelli, a three-time race winner in MotoGP, after he was left without a seat for next season when it was confirmed he would be dropped by Yamaha after five seasons with the Iwata firm.

Originally linked to a Gresini Ducati seat, Morbidelli will instead be paired with Jorge Martin on a factory-spec Ducati GP24 next year instead.

"It is a pleasure for us to welcome Franco Morbidelli to our factory-supported Pramac Racing team for the upcoming sports season, riding an official Desmosedici GP,” said Gigi Dall’Igna. 

"Franco is a rider of great talent and experience, and on more than one occasion, he has demonstrated his strength and speed. 

"It's no coincidence that in 2020, he was the MotoGP vice-world champion, winning three Grand Prix races. We are confident that, together with the Pramac Racing team and thanks to our support, he will be able to show his full potential.