MotoGP: Hayden back in the points once again

Nicky Hayden has completed his pre-race goal of scoring points in yet another Grand Prix season during his replacement ride at Aragon last weekend. The 2006 champion was deputising for an injured Jack miller on the Marc VDS Honda.

The World Superbike race winner had a difficult weekend, strolling at the bottom of the timesheets all weekend – but admitted afterwards that his 15^th place finish was the highlight of his return.

“I would have to say that the race was my best part of the weekend. I underestimated on Friday how long it would take to get up to speed with the package, particularly with the Michelin tyres and certainly the front tyre. I started too far behind on Friday but in the race I was able to have a battle with Pirro, Barbera and Laverty who were all two seconds faster than me on the first day.

“I got a good start and really enjoyed battling with a few guys and the more laps I made the better I felt. I wish it was like World Superbikes and we got another chance to line up because I think with the experience gained I could do a better job. But all of us on the grid think like that. I’d hoped I’d come here and be more on the pace on Friday but that didn’t happen.

“I knew it was a just a one-off ride and I knew it was going to be extremely difficult with no testing but I came and gave it my all. It has been a good experience and I want to thank Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS for this opportunity. I was proud to work with such a great team.”

And while it looks like Miller will be back for the three Asian rounds coming up next, including his home race at Phillip Island, team boss Michael Bartholemy says it was a pleasure to have Hayden join them.

“Nicky did a good job today because it has been a steep learning curve for him. He scored one point and that is a notable achievement when you consider Jack and Tito have found it difficult in a few races to break into the top 15. I want to say a big thanks to him for joining Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS this weekend. It has been a privilege to work with a MotoGP Legend and to see up close what a professional he is.”