Hopkins to ride with Crescent Suzuki in WSB
Added on Monday, November 21st, 2011 by Carole Nash Editor
Hopkins to ride with Crescent Suzuki in WSB
John Hopkins will remain with Crescent Suzuki in 2012 to partner Leon Camier in the World Superbike Championship.
Hopkins, who rode with the team in the British Superbike Championship in 2011, losing the title narrowly on the final day to Tommy Hill, will remain with Crescent as they move to WSB for next season.
Hopkins had reportedly been interested in a switch to MotoGP, following a series of successful wildcard rides, although Suzuki’s decision to quit the series had left those aspirations in tatters.
But despite that set-back Hopkins is looking forward to the challenge of World Superbikes in 2012.
“I am really happy to be joining up with the Crescent guys again,” he claimed. “We had a great year in British Superbike and I’m sure we can continue that in WSB. I wanted to get back into world championship racing and this is a natural progression from last year. The difference this time is that I will be going to tracks that I already know and have some reference from, so that should make some things a bit easier.
“I know it’s going to be a big step, but with some big technical advances and Yoshimura on board, I’m sure the bike will be fully competitive. It will be great to work with Lez Pearson again, as we built up a strong relationship and his understanding of the way the bike works will be invaluable next year.
“I’m also looking forward to riding with Leon. I’m sure he’ll be strong next year and will be a difficult team-mate to beat and also one who will push me to the limit.
“I want to say thanks to Paul, Martyn, Jack and everyone at Crescent Suzuki for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I can’t wait to get on the bike and see what we can do. I know it’s not going to be an easy task by any means, but I have every intention of going out and trying to earn my first ever world championship for myself and the team. I’ll be doing everything in my power to make it happen.”
