Hoyle, who will seek his first win of the year at the final round at Valencia on November 3, is one of five British teenagers competing in the series. It is open to riders aged 14 to 16, and you can apply at
www.redbullrookiescup.com.
Unsuccessful applicants from this year are eligible for the championship, for which everything is provided, including the 125cc KTM bikes, except for travel and accommodation costs. Success in the series could open the door to a place in the
MotoGP Academy, and the kind of reputation that 16-year-old Bradley Smith has carved in the Repsol Honda 125cc GP team.
Sunday am - Puig Could Switch to KTM, and Maybe Take Bradley
Five pre-breakfast minutes in the Repsol Honda truck to catch up on developments and rumours with Alberto Puig, mentor of
Dani Pedrosa and Bradley Smith, and one of the most influential figures in the MotoGP paddock.
Is it true that he is trying to switch his 125 and 250cc operations from Honda to KTM? "There is an approach and a possibility with KTM," he confirms. "But we also have to talk to Repsol to see if they are going to continue with their junior programme."
Part of his problem is a lack of the development in Honda's smaller bikes, particularly the 125. It's meant that Smith has been unable to repeat the podium position he recorded at the French GP seven races ago, and remains in ninth position in the championship.
So if Puig moves to KTM, will he take the 16-year-old Smith with him? "The guy is a talent and is making good progress," Puig responds. "But this year it's not been so easy. There is other competition out there. We need to improve our machines."
He continues: "We will try to help Bradley. He has proved that he can do it."
Hmmm, if I were Bradley I'd be feeling out other options, just in case. Puig has a great reputation for helping young riders, but even he can't resolve everyone's future.
