Andrea Iannone has moved a step closer to his all-but-confirmed move to Aprilia for the 2019 season after the Italian rider and Suzuki confirmed they will part ways at the end of the year.
Iannone made his MotoGP debut in 2013 with the Pramac Ducati squad, and found himself in the factory team in 2015 before moving to Suzuki after Ducati chose to retain Andrea Dovizioso for '17.
A troubled first year on the GSX-RR yielded no podium finishes for the one-time premier class race winner, and he ended up 13th in the standings.
A marked upturn in form for the start of this year has seen him secure two rostrum appearances, but this was not enough to persuade Suzuki into retaining the Italian's services alongside Alex Rins.
Iannone has been heavily linked with the second seat at Aprilia, which is reportedly keen to add an Italian rider to its line-up, and an announcement is expected soon following confirmation of his exit from Suzuki.
"Suzuki Motor Corporation announce that its collaboration with Andrea Iannone will come to an end after the 2018 season," a statement read, adding: "Suzuki as a whole would like to wish all the best to Andrea in what is sure to be a bright and successful future.
"During two seasons racing together Andrea has played an integral part in the growth of Suzuki’s MotoGP project, as well as assisting in the development of our GSX-RR. All of the Suzuki family are incredibly grateful for his help, and for the positive results achieved during the collaboration.
Naturally, with the 2018 season ongoing, Suzuki MotoGP and the Suzuki Motor Corporation will provide their utmost support to the Italian as we continue working together for the remainder of the season, looking forward to achieving strong results in the coming races.
Suzuki have yet to announce who will partner Rins at the squad next season, though Joan Mir has been heavily linked.
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