Vermeulen looking to go out on a high
Added on Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009 by Carole Nash Editor
Vermeulen looking to go out on a high
Chris Vermeulen is looking to go out on a high in Valencia this week as he lines up for his last race in MotoGP.
The Australian, who has endured four seasons with the underachieving Suzuki team, will leave MotoGP after Sunday’s race in Valencia to take up a seat with the Kawasaki World Superbike Team after Suzuki opted not to renew his contract for 2010.
Valencia brings to a close another disappointing year for Vermeulen and Suzuki, who had high hopes that they could challenge Yamaha, Ducati and Honda following strong performances over the winter, most notably at the test in Sepang.
But the results have failed to transpire, with team failing to make the podium at all this season and a best finish of just fifth for Vermeulen at Assen.
But the 27-year-old was in positive mood ahead of the trip to Spain, claiming that he would love to bow out of Grand Prix racing by snatching that elusive podium.
“I am totally focused on going out on a high at Valencia,” he said. “This will be my last race in MotoGP – for at least a couple of years – and I want to make sure it is one that I can be proud of.
“My time with the Suzuki team has been great and my crew has worked tirelessly throughout my time here to give me the best bike they can whatever the conditions, so a good result will be as much for them as for myself.
“I have scored points in every race this year and want to make the last one the highest points scoring one. I will certainly be going for a podium this weekend, I know that will be tough, but that’s the target and one that I would really love to achieve!”
