The Ducati Xerox Junior Team has revealed Xavier Simeon and Daniele Beretta will form its rider line-up for 2009 as they seek to defend their FIM Superstock 1000 title.

The Italian outfit won the 2008 series with Brendan Roberts after a thrilling final race shootout between himself and several other riders, including Simeon. The Belgian won two races in 2008, but crashed out of the final race, handing the title to the Australian.

Nonetheless, the Belgian, who was originally tipped to race in Superbikes with Celani Suzuki next year, will start the 2009 season as a favourite for the title, where he will be joined by Beretta, who graduates from the European Superstock 600 series.

“We are very happy to welcome Xavier Simeon and Daniele Beretta to the team,” said team manager Serafino Foti. “Xavier is one of the most talented riders in the 1000cc category and we are confident he will be able to help us to continue the winning streak that has seen us take the last two championship titles.

“Daniele is very young and new to the category but I'm sure that team-work and the presence of a more experience team-mate will help Daniele to grow professionally and achieve some strong results. We plan to carry out initial tests at the beginning of January.

“I would like to thank Brendan Roberts and Domenico Colucci and wish them both lots of luck for the future.”