British Superbikes: Rizla Suzuki distance themselves from Chris Walker for 2008

Rizla Suzuki boss Simon Buckmaster may not be admitting it openly but his train of thought regarding riders for the 2008 season virtually rules out any hope of Chris Walker may have of retaining his seat.

Simon Buckmaster said at Croft: “I definitely want to keep Cal on the team. He’s done a great job this year and has a really good future ahead of him.” 

But when asked about the future of Chris Walker in the team, Simon Buckmaster evaded the question and talked about other potential riders.

“I’d definitely consider Leon Haslam as Cal’s team-mate,” he said.

“Providing he’s available next year. Sykes would be good too but he’s probably likely to stay with Stobart for another season.

“Leon Camier would be good. I like him. He’s level-headed kid.

“Leon and Cal worked together on the Nokia Honda team last year and while they might not be the best of friends off the track, they had a very good working relationship.”