Loris Capirossi ready for historic Qatar clash

Italian Loris Capirossi will re-write the record books this weekend in Qatar when he becomes the first rider in history to make 300 GP appearances.

Capriossi will start his 21st year in world championship racing on Sunday night when he attempts to get Suzuki’s 2010 campaign off to a successful start under the Losail International Circuit floodlights.

The 37-year-old, who won the 125GP title at the first attempt back in 1990, said: “The Qatar GP will see a big milestone in my career as I start my 300th race!

“I never thought I would get to this many, but I have been lucky in my career and I have always given 100 per cent and kept myself fit so that I have been able to stay at the top.

“I never really think about how many races I have been in, but this number is very special and I guess it will probably never happen for another rider.

“Anyway, once the race has started my attitude will be the same as it was in 1990 – full gas and full attack!

“The race for the team is also important because we have to continue with the improvements and good direction that we found at the Qatar test last month. 

“I know we have some work to do, but we are very close now and all the guys in the team and back in Japan have worked really hard. I hope we can challenge the fast guys more consistently this year.”

See tomorrow’s edition of MCN (Wednesday, April 7) for a free 32-page guide to the new MotoGP season, including an exclusive interview with Capirossi.