Photo: World Superbike
Nicky Hayden will once again appear on the MotoGP grid, filling in for Dani Pedrosa at this weekend’s Australian race.
Hayden made the move to World Superbike this season after months of lackluster results in MotoGP; he’s seen some success in WSB (pictured above, earlier this year), but he’s also made one return appearance in MotoGP already (Aragon, in September, replacing an injured Jack Miller). Now he’s being asked to fill in for Pedrosa at Phillip Island.
“For me it’s crazy hard work but it’s a chance, 10 years after winning my World Title, to get back to my old “dream team,” Hayden said. “Regarding Phillip Island there are two things to always consider, the weather and the tires, but it’s a track I love and I can’t wait to ride the bike there. Let’s get started on Friday morning and go forward.”
Of course, riding for Pedrosa means Hayden is probably going to be on a much-better-kitted bike than when he had Miller’s ride in Spain — maybe the best prepared Honda he’s ridden in years, so he’s allowed to be a bit chuffed.
