Kawasaki wants Nakano, Aspar doesn't.
A third Kawasaki ZX-RR to be run in MotoGP next season by Jorge Martinez 'Aspar' looks on the verge of becoming a reality, but problems remain over the choice of rider.
Kawasaki is pushing for its former factory rider Shinya Nakano to get the seat, but Aspar has made clear that he wants a Spanish rider.
A third Kawasaki ZX-RR to be run in MotoGP next season by Jorge Martinez 'Aspar' looks on the verge of becoming a reality, but problems remain over the choice of rider.
Kawasaki is pushing for its former factory rider Shinya Nakano to get the seat, but Aspar has made clear that he wants a Spanish rider.
"With all due respect to Nakano, he is not a marketable rider with a view toward my sponsors and what I want is to have a Spanish rider," Aspar told Spanish sportspaper AS.
With Carlos Checa staying in WSBK and Toni Elias opting to replace Nakano at Gresini Honda, Aspar currently has his sights set on either Alex Debon or Angel Rodriguez.
Should a Kawasaki deal be reached, it will mean Aspar has a team in the 125, 250 and MotoGP class. Aspar now expects to conclude a deal to run Briton Bradley Smith in the 125cc class.
