MotoGP: James Toseland linked with top MotoGP crew chief

James Toseland’s rookie MotoGP campaign could get a massive boost with top chief engineer chief Ramon Forcada confirming he has been approached by the Tech 3 Yamaha team to spearhead the British star’s premier class assault.

Ramon Forcada confirmed he had been offered a deal to work with James Toseland, who will quit World Superbikes at the end of 2007 to join Tech 3 Yamaha.

Forcada, who currently works with veteran Spaniard Carlos Checa in the LCR Honda squad, has previously worked with the likes of Casey Stoner, Alex Criville, John Kocinski and Alex Barros in a long and distinguished career.

The 50-year-old Spaniard has confirmed to MCN he has two enticing offers for 2008, with James Toseland’s Tech 3 squad facing stiff competition.

Ramon Forcada is also the subject of an official approach from Yamaha’s factory squad to work as Jorge Lorenzo’s chief engineer.

Forcada said: “I’ve not yet decided. I have two choices and it is in my hands to decide.”

He also said the prospect of working with reigning world 250 champion Lorenzo was a tempting one, but Ramon Forcada added: “Of course. But it is not important that the rider is Spanish.

“For me the important thing is to work with a factory. If I can make a good agreement with Yamaha, it is possible to go and work with Jorge Lorenzo.

“I have another offer but if I go to Yamaha it is clear the preference is to work with Lorenzo.”