Video: Nicky Hayden excited by Ducati challenge

Nicky Hayden has spoken of his excitement about his debut season with Ducati’s factory MotoGP squad in 2009.

Making his first official public appearance for the Marlboro-backed squad at the Madonna di Campiglio ski resort in Italy, Hayden said: “The feeling is very exciting.

“On Sunday we did my first real photo shoot in the full-on Marlboro leathers and Ducati leathers and I got to admit it was a great feeling. Something I felt a lot of pride in when I first put the suit on and the full on all the team logos and everything.

“It’s an exciting time for me. Something new and I realize what a great opportunity I have here. I’m very thankful for the opportunity. Everybody at Marlboro and Ducati has trusted me a lot and showed a lot of faith to bring me here to ride on an Italian team.

And so far, everything has gone pretty smooth. But, you know, we’ll really find out when we go racing. But right now the feeling is something that I’m really excited a lot. And just can’t wait to get on with the racing.”