Tech 3 Yamaha boss dismisses John Hopkins move

Tech 3 Yamaha team manager Herve Poncharal has categorically denied considering bringing in John Hopkins to partner James Toseland for the 2009 MotoGP campaign.

Rumours circulated that Hopkins was being considered an option to replace fellow American Colin Edwards in the French-based squad following the collapse of Kawasaki’s factory team during the Christmas break.

Hopkins is still waiting on an official announcement from Kawasaki about its plans, but he has been informed of Kawasaki’s intentions to quit with immediate effect.
Poncharal though has quickly quashed his hopes of a move to Tech 3 Yamaha.

He told MCN: “I saw this rumour on the internet, but there is no possibility of John being a Tech 3 Yamaha rider in 2009. We have signed contracts with James and Colin and they will be our riders for 2009, there is absolutely no doubt about that.

“Changing our line-up for the forthcoming season is simply not under consideration and not an option. We are very happy with James and Colin and we are looking forward to another successful 2009 season with both of them.”