Latest news from the GP paddocks

By Dan Moakes
September 22 2002

Grand Prix paddock update

The latest Grand Prix news is that Loris Capirossi will definitely be joining Troy Bayliss to ride the new Ducati Desmosedici in GPs. Meanwhile, Max Biaggi has been confirmed on a Honda RCV for Pramac Racing in 2003, and it is thought that this move could spell the end of Tetsuya Harada’s GP career. After a couple of less than successful forays into the top class - a best of tenth overall in 1999 - it is said that the Japanese ex-250 champion might have to accept that his time has gone, although we should wait and see on this.

With Biaggi leaving Yamaha, the identity of his replacement is a source of speculation. American Superbike star Nicky Hayden was one possible candidate, but will remain under contract to Honda and, therefore, will apparently be on an RCV next season. Elsewhere in the Yamaha ranks, Olivier Jacque’s position has been rumoured to be unsecure. The Gauloises Tech 3 squad is expected to run a pair of YZR-M1 Yamahas next year, but the Frenchman may not get the benefit. Based on Jacque’s form in Germany, for example, this is perhaps a premature judgement.

Finally, it has been reported that the new Kawasaki ZX-RR will make it’s first appearance during the final few GPs of this year. Factory development rider (and three-time Superbike race winner) Akira Yanagawa is obviously first in line for this seat. Another contender is Australian Andrew Pitt, last season’s World Supersport champion.


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