As revealed by www.bikesportnews.com yesterday, Roberto Rolfo will partner Leon Haslam in the Stiggy Honda World Superbike outfit in 2009.

Rolfo, who signed today, had been in line for a seat next to Max Biaggi in the new Aprilia squad but Shinya Nakano has claimed that ride.

"I'm very happy with my decision to ride for the Stiggy team next year. We have been talking about this possibility for a long time and are both very confident about the project," said Rolfo.

"I know the team is very professional and has lots of potential and I'm very happy to give them my all next year. The team is highly motivated and dedicated to this project - just like myself.

"The team's co-operation with Oral Engineering and Magneti Marelli is very exciting and is something I strongly believe in. I have a lot of experience with the Honda and hopefully that will prove fruitful. I am looking forward to next year and would like to say that my goal is very high!"

Team boss Johan Stigefelt added: "I'm extremely happy to have finalised our Superbike line-up with Roby - it is just great! We have a racing history together, from the 250cc class, so we know each other for several years already.

"Roby is a good and experienced rider and will be perfect for our new project next year. We now have our four riders signed up, in the two different classes, and I have to say i'm very pleased with our line-up."