With its first ever
MotoGP riders' title now in the bag, Ducati's attention has also turned to the constructors' crown and the teams' championship, both of which it currently leads comfortably.
"The motivation to win races is still there for [Casey] and also for Loris [Capirossi], especially after his great victory at Motegi. Also, we still want to secure the constructors' and teams' championships," added Suppo. "We hope for an exciting battle at Phillip Island because the track nearly always creates good racing."
Capirossi is keen to continue his winning ways after his breakthrough Japanese triumph, the Italian's first of the 2007 season, and he can also call upon found memories – having taken his first world title at Phillip Island in 1990 and won three Australian GPs; two in 125s and one in 500GP.
"I can't wait to get to Phillip Island and get to work," said the 2008 Suzuki rider. "My win at Motegi last month was very important for me and for my team. We've had some tough weekends this year and that victory made all the work worthwhile. I'm really looking forward to this next race because I love Australia and I love Phillip Island. It's a fantastic track that really suits my style, so long as the weather isn't too bad. I always love fast corners and Phillip Island has many beautiful corners. My favourites are turns one and three and up the hill through Lukey Heights. It is the kind of track where a good rider can really make the difference. Also, of course, it holds some very special memories for me. It seems such a long time ago that I won my first title there, but even now it feels like a special place."
First free practice at Phillip Island takes place next Friday.
