Nakano apologises for Tohru take-out.

Shinya Nakano's 2003 season - and final race with the d'Antin Yamaha team - came to a disappointing end on Sunday at Valencia, when the Japanese hit countryman Tohru Ukawa on lap seven (pictured), taking them both out.

"It was a shame to finish the year this way," sighed Shinya, who lost his 100% point's scoring record in 2003 - a feat he shared with only Valentino Rossi - in the accident. "It's been a tough weekend but I was feeling good and confident in the race.

"I tried to pass Tohru on turn two but I couldn't avoid touching him and finally we crashed," he explained. "I went to his pitbox to apologise because it was my fault and I was really sorry. This was a positive season, however, and I'm very happy and satisfied with the team and the work they have been doing during the year. It was just a pity not finishing this last race."

Next year, Luis d'Antin will run 2003 World Superbike Champion Neil Hodgson (and a to be announced team-mate) on Ducati Desmosedicis, ending his long relationship with Yamaha.

"It was a real shame because Shinya finished every race this year and we were very motivated for this final GP. It was also our home race," admitted the former racer. "But I want to congratulate Shinya for his determination. I also want to thank him very much for his attitude and hard work during the whole year inside and outside the track. And of course, I want to thank Yamaha for giving me the opportunity to grow in the sport and business in the past seven years."

Nakano, a Yamaha contracted rider, is currently out of a MotoGP seat for 2003, but having outperfromened many of his M1 rivals this year, his career could well continue with another outfit next year and beyond.