MotoGP news

Capirossi joins Suzuki

The Suzuki MotoGP team announced that it came to an agreement with Loris Capirossi. Capirossi will join Chris Vermeulen at the Suzuki Grand Prix team in 2008.

Capirossi will begin evaluating the 2007 and 2008 versions of the prototype 800cc GSV-R during a two-day test at the Spanish circuit. 34-year-old Capirossi joins Suzuki with a vast wealth of knowledge gathered from 18 seasons at the highest level of motorcycle racing plus significant experience of Bridgestone tyres. The signing of Capirossi confirms Suzuki's line-up for the attack on the 2008 championship, following the announcement that current rider Vermeulen was to stay with the team shortly after his excellent second place in America earlier in the year.

Loris Capirossi said: "I am really happy because after five years with Ducati this is a very good time to change. I have been talking a lot with the guys from Suzuki and for me it is a really really interesting time and a very big change. I just cannot wait for the first time to jump on the bike. This will be important for me and for all the team.

"Suzuki looks in a good shape at the moment. Already the bike is good and we have three more tests this year to work on it and make more developments. My motivation is 100% focused on that moment and I have new toys in my hand! I am really happy to be going to Suzuki and start working with my new team - the first time I ride the bike will be the best moment for me. After 18 years in Grand Prix racing I think I don't have many more seasons, so I want to prepare my body and condition myself 110%, and try to do the best I can to challenge again for the championship."

Capirossi hails from Bologna in Italy and began Grand Prix racing in 1990. He has achieved success in each racing category, including World Championship titles in the 125cc class (twice) and the 250cc category in 1998. He still holds the record for becoming the youngest ever World Champion when he won the 125cc title at the age of 17. Capirossi finished seventh in the MotoGP Championship this season and scored one race win to add to his previous 28 Grand Prix victories in the 125cc, 250cc, 500cc and MotoGP classes. Capirossi has also achieved nearly 100 podiums and 41 pole positions in all categories throughout his career.

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