It looks like Paul Denning team manager of Rizla Suzuki, actually wasn’t teasing when we reported the rumor that John Hopkins could get a wildcard ride in MotoGP this 2011.
According to British website MCN.
com, Hopper will actually be testing the GSV-R during the pre-season Qatar test, that takes place next month and his role will be to replace Alvaro Bautista, if something should happen to the Spanish rider.
“We’re obliged to be at the races and we need to have a back-up plan if Alvaro is unfit.
In terms of ability, experience and availability, John would definitely be the best guy,” said Denning.
This seems a pretty smart idea by Suzuki, because we wouldn’t want to see the scrambling and pretty inadequate replacements (test riders Wataru Yoshikawa and Kousuke Akiyoshi) that the teams found to substitute injured Valentino Rossi and Hiroshi Aoyama.
A 19-year-old student dies suddenly on campus, prompting support for the community.
A 15-year-old boy was hospitalized after a stabbing on Elgin High Street, prompting police investigations.
The Met Office warns of significant snowfall and icy conditions in the coming days.
A tragic incident in Fort William leads to murder charges against a teenager.
A heartfelt appeal for support emerges following the tragic death of a beloved mother.
3t training centre leads the way in survival skills for oil and gas workers.
A strange object in the sky sparks speculation among residents and experts alike.
Local authorities tackle a shed fire in Dundas Street, Stromness.
Authorities investigate a dispute involving a customer at a local pub.
Aberdeen secures victory over Rangers in a nail-biting penalty shootout at P&J Live.