Hayden Preempts Ducati's 2010 MotoGP launch

12 January 2010

0Comments | Comment on this Article

Nicky Hayden has admitted he could be in trouble for ruining the launch of Ducati's new bike by posting pictures of it on his web site.

Hayden visited the team's factory for a look at the 2010 MotoGP machine but failed to realise the design was not for public viewing.

Hayden told the BBC: "When I saw the bike I took a picture on my phone. I should have known better, I was like a kid."

The 2006 world champion, said he was happy with the bike and did not believe the departure of team principal Livio Suppo would adversely affect Ducati's season.

Hayden's only worry is the enforced use of fewer engines this season as MotoGP aims to cut costs.

"Six engines is not a lot for 18 races. I hope it saves some money but I'm not sure how much it is going to save because it takes a lot of development to make them last," he added.

Hayden's Ducati team-mate, Casey Stoner, said he was free of injury and illness after he was forced to miss three races last season because of a mystery ailment which was eventually diagnosed as lactose intolerance.

Stoner told the press "No one was listening to me so I don't believe I have to answer any questions. It's the first off-season in three years I've not had an injury."

Stoner is also happy with Ducati's 2010 bike saying "The new 'big bang' firing order that the Ducati engineers have been working on is definitely a step forward, coupled with the improved traction and handling which has reduced the bike's tendency to wheelie.

Stoner also said he expected Hayden to be a more serious contender this coming year, and spoke of the positive team spirit in the Ducati garage.

"I think it is unusual to have an atmosphere in the garage like the one we have," he said.

"There have been a few changes to the team with the arrival of team manager Vittoriano (Guareschi) and MotoGP project manger Alessandro (Cicognani) but they are both doing a great job and I can't wait to get back out on track for the first test of the year.

"The objective for 2010 is to win, as it is for everybody of course, but whether or not we manage it the most important thing is that we give it our best shot and I feel we can do that now."

0Comments | Be the first to comment!