FB Corse: Hopkins still part of MotoGP project

FB Corse, which is planning to enter MotoGP with a three-cylinder motorcycle at select events in 2010, insists that former Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki MotoGP rider John Hopkins remains part of the project.

Late last week it was announced that Hopkins would test for the M4 Hammer Suzuki AMA Superbike team, fuelling speculation that 'Hopper' - who made an injury-interrupted switch to WSBK after his factory Kawasaki seat disappeared from under him almost exactly one year ago - would be switching to the troubled American series.

Hopkins, German WSBK 2009
Hopkins, German WSBK 2009
© Gold and Goose

FB Corse, which is planning to enter MotoGP with a three-cylinder motorcycle at select events in 2010, insists that former Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki MotoGP rider John Hopkins remains part of the project.

Late last week it was announced that Hopkins would test for the M4 Hammer Suzuki AMA Superbike team, fuelling speculation that 'Hopper' - who made an injury-interrupted switch to WSBK after his factory Kawasaki seat disappeared from under him almost exactly one year ago - would be switching to the troubled American series.

Indeed, a press release by the M4 Suzuki team quoted crew chief Keith Perry as saying: "The team is hoping this test at Fontana will lay the groundwork for a successful partnership with Hopkins in anticipation of working together this upcoming season."

Nevertheless, in a statement on Bikeracing.it FB Corse has hit back at the reports, insisting that it had agreed to the Hopkins AMA test, in order for the Anglo-American to stay bike sharp, and that it in no way compromises his apparent role with FB Corse.

FB Corse's planned MotoGP launch has been postponed until February, while Andrea Ferrari - the F in FB Corse - undergoes a 'minor operation'. FB Corse insists it will be able to clear up any uncertainties about its project at the launch.

Former grand prix star Luca Cadalora has also been linked with development of the machine.

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