Les
10th August 2006, 15:51
Suzuki boss Francis Batta has revelead that signing Grand Prix legend Max Biaggi is his "priority" for next season. The 35-year-old has been without a ride in World Superbikes' rival series after eight years in the 500cc and MotoGP championships.
The Italian was heavily linked with a move to Suzuki last winter, but was unable to dislodge either Troy Corser or Yukio Kagayama from the Alstare berths and was left without a ride. Despite testing a Midland F1 car, the four-time 250cc world champion is expected to remain on two wheels.
He is an attractive target not only for his riding ability, as his popularity and high profile should ensure he brings ample sponsorship money with him.
"I am going to Japan on August 10th to discuss a new contract with Suzuki. We will be running a Superbike programme in 2007," said Batta.
"We expect to have two factory bikes and one Alstare Engineering machine, but no Supersport project. At the moment there are many riders that could be an option for us, but Max Biaggi is our priority."
http://www.eurosport.com/superbike/assen/2006/sport_sto941052.shtml
The Italian was heavily linked with a move to Suzuki last winter, but was unable to dislodge either Troy Corser or Yukio Kagayama from the Alstare berths and was left without a ride. Despite testing a Midland F1 car, the four-time 250cc world champion is expected to remain on two wheels.
He is an attractive target not only for his riding ability, as his popularity and high profile should ensure he brings ample sponsorship money with him.
"I am going to Japan on August 10th to discuss a new contract with Suzuki. We will be running a Superbike programme in 2007," said Batta.
"We expect to have two factory bikes and one Alstare Engineering machine, but no Supersport project. At the moment there are many riders that could be an option for us, but Max Biaggi is our priority."
http://www.eurosport.com/superbike/assen/2006/sport_sto941052.shtml