CARL Fogarty's trusty number two Anthony 'Slick' Bass has been axed by Ducati in a dramatic team shake-up.

Team boss Davide Tardozzi has decided that Fogarty will have the team of mechanics used by Troy Corser in next year's attempt to win a fifth world title.

He will retain his chief Italian mechanic but Ducati are also keen to give his new team-mate, Ben Bostrum, the best possible start in World Superbikes.

Bass has been Fogarty's right hand man and chief mechanic for nearly 10 years and is a close friend of the family.

But the decision is an indication that the Italian manufacturers are determined not to rest on their laurels in their bid to stay ahead of the pack.

Fogarty said: "It's probably for the best and I think Slick realises it was in his own best interests.

"I do not think it came as a big surprise for him."

The reigning world champ is currently testing in Valencia, the venue for the first round of next year's championship.

Ducati are trying to reduce the wear on the rear tyres which was responsible for Fogarty's poor showing at Brands Hatch this year, by introducing a double sided swingarm.

And, in a hush-hush operation, the team is also considering changing their famous exhaust system in case the new Honda bikes prove too hot to handle. On Saturday, Fogarty is due to fly to Italy for the World Superbikes prize giving ceremony, before jetting back to London for a beer promotion on Sunday.

Then it is back to Italy on Monday to open the Bologna Bike Show, before taking part in the annual Super Motard race on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Motards are similar to Enduro bikes, but with smaller wheels, and the race features a number of top names from the world of superbikes and motocross.

He said: "It's a race I enjoy riding. And it's usually won by a superbike rider, so we will have to see what happens."

Then, on his return to England, Fogarty is due to attend the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony in London on Sunday, December 11.

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