Two-time MotoGP world champion Casey Stoner will make an emotional return to Ducati next season after Honda confirmed his departure.

Stoner has signed a deal with Ducati – the constructor he won his first world title with in 2007 – to take up a role as test rider and brand ambassador.

The announcement on Monday came soon after Honda announced the 30-year-old's five-year association with the team was coming to an end, Stoner leaving his role as tester for Dani Pedrosa and Marc Marquez.

"It's been a great journey with Honda 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," Stoner said. 

"For 2016 I am very excited to announce that I will again be joining the Ducati team. 

"I have so many great memories working with the people and the brand of Ducati and the opportunity to work with them again is something very special. 

"I am looking forward to assisting the team, Andrea Dovizioso and Andrea Iannone however I can. 

"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."