MOTOGP » JAMES ELLISON
CAREER
2007 – With few MotoGP options, Ellison signs to ride for the factory supported Corona Extra Honda team in the AMA Superbike championship.
2006 - After impressing on the underfunded WCM, Ellison got a 'dream' Yamaha ride with Herve Poncharal's satellite team, backed by Dunlop tyres, for 2006 - but the season turns into a nightmare, partly due to Ellison being the only M1 rider not to get the new chatter-free frame.
Instead, the Englishman rode the full season on the troublesome original 2006 chassis, taking a best finish of ninth at Catalunya on his way to 18th in the championship. Ellison took his lack of new parts with creditable tolerance, understanding that Yamaha was putting all its efforts behind Valentino Rossi's title challenge, and continued that professional attitude right to the end of the season - long after he had been told his contract would not be renewed for 2007.
2005 - Starts first full season in MotoGP with Blata WCM alongside Franco Battaini. With the Blata V6 never appearing, Ellison is forced to spend the whole season on the team's own built (and vastly underpowered) four-cylinder - but impresses with his never give up attitude and clear ability.
Ends year with 7-points and best finish of 13th (at wet Chinese GP), then has his hard work rewarded with a test for d'Antin Ducati. Expected to sign for d'Antin, but an impressive performance during the test sees Dunlop throw all their backing behind the Brit, helping him instead gain a 'dream' 2006 YZR-M1 seat with Tech 3 Yamaha.
2004 - Makes MotoGP debut at Czech Republic Grand Prix with Harris WCM. 13th in Qatar Grand Prix.
Wins British Superbike Cup Championship (for privateers riders) on a Jentin Racing Yamaha.
13th overall at Suzuka 8 Hours and 4th in class (Yamaha R1).
Sixth and fifth at Brands Hatch WSBK as a wild-card with Jentin Racing.
2003 - 3rd in European Superstock Championship (not all rounds). 1 win running his own team with the help of sponsors (Suzuki 1000cc).
