Estoril MotoGP: Chaz Davies to replace Alex Hofmann for last four races?

British rider Chaz Davies could find himself drafted into the D’Antin Ducati team for the final four races of the 2007 MotoGP season after Alex Hofmann’s controversial retirement in Estoril today.

The Spanish team could dump German Hofmann after he retired from the 28-lap race citing a lack of motivation.

Hofmann was last and six seconds adrift of the field when he inexplicably pulled into the pits.

His retirement has incensed team boss Luis D’Antin, who is now considering whether to axe him for the remainder of the season.

And top of the list of replacement candidates is Davies, who impressed D’Antin when he replaced injured Hofmann at the American GP in Laguna Seca.

Davies also completed a two-day test session in Mugello last week and is being lined up for a test rider with Bridgestone and Ducati in 2008.

There are four races of the season remaining in Japan, Malaysia, Australia and Spain, and Davies could be installed in time to race in next weekend’s Twin Ring Motegi clash.

A D’Antin source told MCN tonight in Estoril: “Luis is very upset with the behaviour of Alex.

“He will discuss what to do next with Pramac officials before deciding on the next step.

“I can say though that there is a great possibility that Chaz Davies will be asked to ride the bike for the rest of the season, starting next weekend in Japan.”

Hofmann said: “Today was not my day. First, I had a problem with my A bike while I was going to the starting grid, so I had to come back into the pits and change to my B bike.

“After the race started and I saw I was six seconds back from the last person, I couldn’t find the motivation to continue fighting only to remain last.

“I’m very sorry for reacting in this way.”

D’Antin couldn’t hide his frustration and disappointment at Hofmann’s actions and he said: “I think that lack of motivation is not an excuse for us, and therefore the team reserves the right to make a decision on whether or not he will continue racing with us for the remainder of the season.”

A decision is expected on whether Davies will be called up either tomorrow (Monday) or Tuesday.