From a press release issued by MonsterMob Ducati:

BIRD LOOKS TO YOUNG GUNS FOR FUTURE

MonsterMob Ducati team owner Paul Bird has today announced that he will not be renewing the contract of 2002 MCN British Superbike Champion, Steve Hislop.

The 40-year-old Isle-of-Man-based Scot has fronted the team’s attack for the past two seasons, finishing second in 2001 before clinching the title at Donington last month but the Penrith businessman is looking towards youth for the foreseeable future.

“Steve’s contract was up and it was a very difficult decision as to whether to renew it or not and the decision not to has not been taken lightly. Obviously Steve has been very instrumental in the team’s success over the past couple of seasons and whilst we’re very grateful to him for that, it was the right time for us to go our separate ways and Steve and I have no animosity towards each other. We achieved our goals together and now it’s right for us both to accept new challenges.

“We have a long-term commitment to Ducati and our sponsors needed a younger profile within the team conducive with their marketing strategy and we are in negotiation with three young riders, all of whom fit the bill perfectly. This is the start of an exciting three-year project which will see us hopefully race in the world superbike and supersport championship starting in 2004, although we may decide to continue racing in the UK until 2005 should circumstances dictate,” said Bird.

Rumours have been increasing in recent days but an official announcement as to who will replace Hislop will be made before Bird and his team jet out to contest the Macau Grand Prix in a month’s time.