The 24-year-old looked set for a star-studded career after he clinched the 250cc title for the official Aprilia team during his debut 2003 season, having won the 125cc crown for Gilera in 2001, but his career went off the rails the following year when he slumped to just ninth in the standings.
That prompted an equally unsuccessful return to the 125cc class with Gilera, before further disappointment followed back in 250cc with KTM in 2006 (pictured). Poggiali then sat out the entire 2007 season.
"I am very happy to return!" said the San Marinese. "I'm looking forward to the challenge and I'm glad to be back on an Aprilia, the machine with which I won the 2003 world championship."
