Pedercini Kawasaki secures de Angelis for 2017

Team Pedercini Kawasaki has recruited Alex de Angelis for the 2017 World Superbike championship, bringing an end to his partnership with IodaRacing.

The former MotoGP podium winner followed IodaRacing into World Superbikes this year and ended the season 13th in the riders' championship with the highlight of second place in the wet race two at the Lausitzring.

After IodaRacing announced it would stay in World Superbikes as a privateer Aprilia team having announced Leandro Mercado as one of its riders for 2017, it has been confirmed de Angelis is switching to Team Pedercini Kawasaki.

The 32-year-old from San Marino is relishing his fresh opportunity but accepts responsibility will rest with him to lead the team's charge next season.

"I'm really happy I was able to find an agreement and become part of the Pedercini Racing Team," de Angelis said. "It's a new and engaging adventure, with a bike that has shown and are still showing to be really competitive.

"To be the rider with a team like Pedercini makes me really proud, but also brings loads of responsibilities to my shoulders. I know next year we are going to have to fight to always be in the first few rows due also to the new regulations.

"I feel I may have the experience and skills to make this happen and mostly I know I can count on a capable team of experts and a fast motorbike."

de Angelis recovered from life-threatening injuries sustained at Motegi during the Japanese MotoGP in 2015 to contest a full rookie World Superbike campaign for IodaRacing Aprilia.