Casey Stoner: Australian to test ride for Ducati in 2016

Casey Stoner crashed at this year's Suzuka 8 Hours endurance race, breaking his shoulder blade and tibia

Two-time MotoGP world champion Casey Stoner is set to return to former team Ducati as an ambassador and test rider.

The 30-year-old Australian, who won the title with Ducati in 2007, will begin his new role next year.

Stoner left Ducati in 2011 to join Honda, winning a second title in his debut season, and testing for them since retiring in 2012.

"The opportunity to work with Ducati again is something very special," said Stoner in a Ducati statement.

"It's been a great journey with HRC over the last five years. Winning the World Championship in 2011 was obviously a high point and I've made many friends and formed lasting relationships along the way.

"The Ducati brand and the Ducati fans have been such a big part of my career and my life, so it will be really great to reunite the relationship and start another chapter with this iconic brand."