Davies ‘hurt’ by Ducati departure on eve of season finale

Chaz Davies has opened up about his departure from Ducati after seven years on the saddle for the Italian manufacturer.

The Presteigne star signed off his tenure for Ducati with glory in Portugal in the final round of the World Superbike Championship, sealing third in the overall standings.

However his victory was bitter sweet having been informed in the build up of his departure with the Italian’s signing Michael Ruben Rinaldi.

Davies says he has been given reason for his axe and admitted his hurt.

He said: “To be honest, nobody gave me a good reason, so I’ve got to read between the lines a bit.

“It’s impossible not to take this decision personally. It hurts, it hurts a lot actually.”

To complicate matters further for Davies, Ducati’s late call on riders means the Welshman has been left with no factory options for the 2021 WorldSBK Championship season.

It leaves Davies facing the prospect of not competing in the superbike championships next season.

He said: “Some things that are in my hands? No. Some things that are being spoke about? Yes.

“Imagine sitting where I am sitting and feeling like you couldn’t fight for the championship but not having the full support around you, you already start with an excuse.

“I’m not saying that will be the situation but if you aren’t in the factory team then you automatically don’t have the full support.”

Moreover, he says Ducati’s apparent reluctance to make contact with him leads him to believe he won’t be in line for factory-supported switch to Barni or Go Eleven.

“I have obviously asked the question about it as I am out of Ducati, but nobody returned my phone call, which tells me they don’t want me.”