Hopkins focused on MotoGP return
Added on Tuesday, June 14th, 2011 by Carole Nash Editor
Hopkins focused on MotoGP return
John Hopkins has admitted that he is already eyeing up a move back to MotoGP, although he remains fully committed to the Samsung Suzuki BSB team.
After a wretched three years, in which Hopkins was hit by the collapse of the Kawasaki MotoGP and Stiggy Honda WSB teams, the American has managed to kick-start his career in British Superbikes with five podiums in the last six races.
Those performances have seen Hopkins consistently linked with moves back to MotoGP, with the 28 year-old already recording a tenth place finish on a wildcard ride for Rizla Suzuki in Jerez, and a ride in premier class is very much in the back of his mind.
“I have to say I’m really enjoying this championship. The tracks have been so varied, so challenging – that alone has been a great experience,” he said. “But the level of interest: the number of fans, the media focus, has really impressed me. It feels like I’m in a good place.
“After some tough years, the hard work of the last 18 months is paying off; Paul Denning’s faith in me is paying off for the team; and all this is stimulating interest in my career going forwards, maybe even making way for a return to MotoGP. That’s cool. But I’m a firm believer in one step at a time. I’m loving BSB, so for me this is where I want to be for the rest of this season, I’m committed to this great team and this great championship.”
Samsung Suzuki team manager Jack Valentine added that he isn’t surprised that his star rider is attracting interest from elsewhere but insisted that Hopkins is very much focused on his BSB commitments, which continue at Knockhill this weekend.
“Hopper’s really creating a buzz right now; BSB is never an easy ride yet he’s showing his class,” he said. “He’s certainly brought something new to the party. It’s no surprise then that the MotoGP teams should be knocking on his door again. That’s flattering, but we’re delighted that Hopper sees BSB in 2011 as his first duty. And he makes a good point – racing is about each and every weekend, we’ve got Knockhill to conquer first, then another seven rounds after that. The future can wait!
