Hayden Confirms Departure From Honda

Motorcycle.com Staff
by Motorcycle.com Staff

Hayden confirms departure from Honda

Kentucky Kid hints at move to Ducati
By Motorcycle.Com Staff, Sep. 12, 2008
Nicky Hayden has confirmed that he will leave Repsol Honda at the end of the 2008 season and hinted at jumping to Ducati Marlboro.

The Kentucky Kid returns to action at the Indianapolis Grand Prix after missing the two races after injuring his ankle while participating in the X Games Aug. 1. The injury was the latest setback in a disappointing season for the 2006 MotoGP Champion, and came just as he started to show improvements riding the pneumatic-valve Honda RC212V.

I have had a long history with Honda, says Hayden. Weve had a lot of good races together, won championships in the AMA, and obviously the World Championship was the big one. Sure, every day wasnt just a big holiday but we had some good days, and Im really grateful for the opportunity they gave me. But I think its time to move on, try something different.

The 2008 season hasn't been kind to Nicky Hayden. A change in scenary in 2009 may help turn things around.
Rumors have been circulating of a jump to Ducati to replace the Kawasaki-bound Marco Melandri. Without actually mentioning Ducati, Hayden hinted that speculation may soon turn to reality.

Its no secret; everybody knows where my next stop is going to be, says Hayden. But officially were waiting on to do it the right way until the releases come out because theres teams and stuff.

If Hayden does join Ducati Marlboro, hell form a formidable racing duo with the 2007 MotoGP Champion Casey Stoner on the Ducati Desmosedici GP9.

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Motorcycle.com Staff
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