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If the grid in the MotoGP has been practically set up in view of next season, the market has yet to come to life in the Superbike. That's how it usually works for the derivatives, where negotiations almost always occur in summer, during the long two-month break. One of the most sought-after riders in the paddock is undoubtedly Alvaro Bautista, since his contract will expire at the end of the season.
Despite the world leadership he lost a week ago at Donington, the Aruba rider is undoubtedly the revelation this 2019, so much so that he has put together 14 wins in this first part of the Championship. At Borgo Panigale, they know how important the Spanish rider is for the team. Up until now, he's the only one who was able understand and exploit the potential of the Ducati before a Chaz Davies who is still seeking the right confidence.
It's precisely for this reason that Ducati doesn't have the slightest intention of letting him go, also since the Honda would be willing to steal him away in 2020, given the debut in the World Championship of its new bike. To avoid a situation in some ways similar to the one that occurred in the past with Jorge Lorenzo, the Italian team is willing and ready to close the deal.
The decision might already be announced during the Laguna Seca weekend because this was the timing set by Ducati and Bautista, the latter followed by manager Simone Battistella,the same as Andrea Dovizioso's. The official announcement might, however, be given a few days or weeks later but, at the moment, it seems as if there are no obstacles in the negotiation.
Bautista will then ride with Ducati for two more seasons, or until 2021, with an adjustment made to the contract. At the moment, his salary ranges around 200,000 Euros, but there may be a reduction in the victory prizes. Instead, on the other side of the pit-box, Chaz Davies' situation has already been decided, having signed a two-year contract last year.
