Yamaha drops Haga hint.

Yamaha's official racing magazine, The Insider, has hinted at the return of World Superbike star Noriyuki Haga to the Japanese factory in 2005.

In an article describing the success of Yamaha in WSBK, the 2000 season - in which Haga and Yamaha narrowly missed out on the world crown - is recalled in detail

"With Haga and Yamaha going to GPs for 2001," the article states, "Superbike fans never got another chance to see one of the sports most spectacular pairings go for the title that narrowly eluded them in 2000. Until 2005, perhaps?"

Yamaha Europe's racing manager, Laurens Klien Koerkamp, also adds that Haga's return to Yamaha would be a highly desirable move.

"Strong personalities have always been a major part of our Superbike programme," comments Koerkamp. "When I first became involved in Superbikes we had Scott Russell, a real larger than life character. Then, of course, it was Noriyuki Haga who was the star.

"At times it was quite unbelievable just how popular he was but that was part of the Superbike culture that, just as with Scott, allowed him to be himself. You only have to look at the forums at our website to see the affection with which Noriyuki is still held by our fans.

"That affection for Noriyuki is also held by us at Yamaha, which is why, along with his stunning performances on the Ducati this year, we would like him to ride for us in 2005. We know he will give 100 per cent and fit into the team."

So why the delay in making an official Haga/Yamaha announcement?

Crash.net reported as far back as October that Haga wanted to sign for Yamaha, but Renegade - Haga's 2004 employer - still has first refusal on his services. That option runs out on December 31, whereby a decision by Renegade on Haga must be reached.

Renegade team manager Mark Griffiths has previously told Crash.net that "there's no point us holding a pistol to (Haga's) head" if he wants to ride for Yamaha.

Rumours are also mounting that the British team will sign Ben Bostrom and Honda, to replace Haga and Ducati, in what could be a one rider team. Haga's 2004 team-mate Leon Haslam has already moved back to BSB for next season.

As such, and with the December 31 deadline fast approaching, it is increasingly likely that Haga will soon be officially announced as joining Andrew Pitt in Yamaha's 2005 WSBK attack.