MotoGP: Nicky Hayden wants Honda loyalty to Michelin

Reigning MotoGP world champion Nicky Hayden believes that Honda should remain loyal to Michelin instead of bowing to pressure from Dani Pedrosa to switch to rivals Bridgestone.

Dani Pedrosa is understood to be heaping pressure on HRC bosses to dump Michelin for the 2008 campaign after just one victory in 2007 at the Sachsenring in Germany back in July.

The Spaniard, who is expected to sign a new factory Honda deal later this month at the Japanese MotoGP race in the Twin Ring Motegi, has been one of Michelin’s biggest critics in 2007.

 
But Nicky Hayden believes it would be wrong for Honda to act hastily and suddenly quit Michelin after a long and successful partnership.

Nicky Hayden admitted recently that he had contemplated Bridgestone tyres for next season but added he had not formally requested a switch to Honda management, nor had he been involved in any discussion about a move.

The Kentucky rider said he hoped that regardless of whatever HRC decide to do that he is consulted in the decision making process.

“I just read the stuff you guys see and I’ve heard the rumours that the only way he (Dani) was coming back was is if we switch.

“But honestly I told Honda that if they get ready to make a decision to switch then let’s be involved as a team. Honda and Michelin have a long history together. You just can’t jump that quickly and to me loyalty means something.

“Bridgestone deserve to be winning, they are working hard and doing it right, “said the Repsol Honda rider. “

He added: “At times I’ve been critical and even thought lets go to a spec tyre or switch to Bridgestone but that’s not the answer. It might be the easy way out but we’ve got to work with Michelin and fix it. We are in it together.”