Nori Haga will look to end over 10 years without a win at Misano when the championship points leader arrives at Misano.

The Ducati Marlboro rider is keen to do well in front of the Italian manufacturer's home fans and he has more incentive than most when the championship reaches San Marino.

Haga first raced at Misano in 1998 but has yet to win a race at the circuit and he is puzzled why his form there has never been good.

The Japanese rider also hopes to return to form after a disappointing last round at Miller Motorsport Park in the USA where he finished eighth and ninth.

That allowed American Ben Spies to cut Haga's lead in the championship standings to 53 points.

A top three finish in both races at Misano would also take Haga to 100 podium finishes in World Superbikes.

Haga said: "The Misano track is very small and tricky with high speed corners that require aggressive braking.

"I prefer the new layout but it remains nonetheless a difficult track for me, I don't really know why.

"It's always so hot there too, so the tyre choice really comes into play."

Although Haga has reservations about the circuit he is still looking forward to racing for Ducati in front of Italian fans.

"Anyway, it will be good to be back in front of the Italian crowds, Misano has been the 'home' race for Ducati in the last years so I'm sure it'll be crowded with Ducatisti," he added.

"After a crash and the less than perfect results at the last round of Salt Lake, I plan to be back on form and fighting to win at Misano."