MotoGP: Chris Vermeulen backs James Toseland for MotoGP success

Rizla Suzuki’s Chris Vermeulen has backed British rider James Toseland to make an immediate impact in the 2008 MotoGP world championship.

James Toseland recently confirmed that he would quit World Superbikes at the end of 2007 having clinched a deal with the French-based Tech 3 Yamaha squad.

And current factory Suzuki rider Chris Vermeulen believes James Toseland will be able to shine on the big stage.

Ironically Toseland has followed the same route as Vermeulen into MotoGP, as the Aussie quit the Ten Kate World Superbike squad at the end of 2005 to join Suzuki’s factory MotoGP team.

“I rate James. He’s fast and he’s definitely talented and he works hard at it. He’s won a lot of races this year and should be world champion.

“I think it’s the right time for him to come here. He’s going to get in with a great team and its great to see more superbike riders coming in,” said Vermeulen, who was also happy at news of Loris Capirossi’s arrival at Suzuki for 2008.

The veteran Italian will quit Ducati after five years at the end of 2007 to replace John Hopkins at Suzuki.

And Chris Vermeulen added: “He is someone I’ve watched for years. He’s been racing almost as long as I’ve been alive. 

“He’s got a hell of a lot of experience, he’s going to be a great asset to the team and I’m very excited.”