Nicky Hayden will ride his final race for the Repsol Honda Team at Valencia, Spain, on October 26. The American star and Honda have enjoyed a decade of racing action together, climbing motorcycling’s highest peak when they conquered the MotoGP World Championship in 2006.
After such a spirited performance in last weekend's British Grand Prix, both Repsol Honda riders are ready to make sure they build on the speed shown at Donington Park and the pair approach Assen buoyed by those recent rides. Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda RC212V) finished eighth and Nicky Hayden (Repsol Honda RC212V) crashed, pitted and rejoined for a finish at Donington. Dani led in the wet conditions before his tyre choice proved incorrect and Nicky was fighting at the front before he fell. Strange as it may sound, it was an encouraging weekend because these riders were getting back to their best after a difficult start to the season.
His competitive character has never gone against his sporting spirit, his humbleness and naturalness. But now, despite his three world titles, 25 Grand Prix victories and despite racing for the most successful team of latest times - or maybe therefore - Dani is experiencing a pressure that is not easy to stand. With the calmness provided by days going by, the Spanish rider speaks openly, showing us his most human side.