Elias leaves LCR Honda
Added on Monday, November 7th, 2011 by Carole Nash Editor
Elias leaves LCR Honda
Toni Elias has left the LCR Honda team after a disappointing 2011 MotoGP campaign.
The Spanish rider, who joined LCR Honda following last year’s Moto2 success, failed to impress on the Honda with just four top-ten finishes to his name this season.
The Spaniard had not been offered a contract by the team for next season prior to yesterday’s season finale and both Elias team manager Lucio Cecchinello confirmed that he would not ride for the team next year.
“This season was very tough for me but in the meantime I learnt a lot,” said Elias. “Now I hope to start with a new challenge with more luck and the same I also wish to Lucio and the LCR team.”
Cecchinello paid tribute to Elias’ efforts despite their lack of success this year.
“This season was tougher than what we expected but we learnt a lot from the difficulties and we will keep on working at 100 per cent as always,” said the team boss. “I must thank Toni, because he always tried hard to find a solution, and the team too.
“I wish him the best for his future career because he is a tough rider and a guy with a huge heart, a contagious smile and full of human worth.”
LCR Honda have reportedly approached former rider Randy de Puniet to replace Elias, although they have also been linked with newly-crowned Moto2 champion Stefan Bradl.
