Filippo Preziosi, known as the 'Godfather' of the Ducati's Desmosedici MotoGP bike, has resigned his position due to ill health.
The Italian, who guided Casey Stoner to the company's MotoGP world title in 2007, was moved away from the project to become the director of research and development after the Valentino Rossi debacle and has now left the firm. His successor will be named in due course.
Preziosi, who is a wheel-chair user, said that his illness is related to his physical condition. "The company respectfully acknowledges the 45-year old Italian’s decision and thanks him for his significant contribution during his 19 years with Ducati, 12 of which were within Ducati Corse," said a Ducati spokesman.