Doohan backs Stoner’s Honda switch
Added on Thursday, July 22nd, 2010 by Carole Nash Editor
Doohan backs Stoner’s Honda switch
Aussie legend Mick Doohan believes compatriot Casey Stoner could revitalise his MotoGP career with his move to Honda in 2011, even if the manufacturer retains its current riders, Dani Pedrosa and Andrea Dovizioso.
Doohan, who won five consecutive world championships between 1994 and 1998 with Honda, believes that team’s recent lack of success provides Stoner with the perfect platform when he makes the move from Ducati and is backing the 24-year-old to rebuild his reputation next season.
“Casey can win with Honda, without a doubt,” Doohan told Speedcafe.com.au.
“Casey has won a world title, and he’s won numerous races.
“There are some good guys in Honda, and I think if Casey gets on with it, he’ll do a very good job.”
Doohan added that he doesn’t feel Honda’s reported plans to keep hold of current stars Dani Pedrosa and Andrea Dovizioso as well as Stoner will pose much of a problem, claiming that Stoner will care little for who his teammate is next year.
“I don’t think anybody cares who your team-mate is,” he said. “A few years ago, Valentino (Rossi) was running an independent bike when there were two Repsol Hondas.
“In reality, you’re out there racing for yourself. It’s not a team sport. I don’t think having two or three bikes in the team will be a factor for him whatsoever.”
