Nicky Hayden excited at Moto2 chance for brother

Nicky Hayden could be joined by his younger brother Roger Lee in the Grand Prix paddock next year. 

The youngest of the famous Kentucky racing dynasty, Roger Lee has landed a wild card in the Indianapolis Moto2 race in late August in a team to be spearheaded by American racing legend Kevin Schwantz.

Hayden currently rides for the Pedercini squad on a Kawasaki ZX-10R in World Superbikes but could move to GPs with 2006 world champion Nicky.

The factory Ducati rider said: “It is a huge opportunity for him and I know they are working on getting the bike and everything in time to do it right and not just a last minute deal. Hopefully he can get some time on the bike and show what he can do. He’s excited about it.”

Roger Lee has good pedigree on a 600cc machine having lifted the 2007 American Supersport series.

And Hayden believes a full-time switch to the ultra-competitive Moto2 series next season could tempt his younger sibling.

He added: “He likes World Superbikes but I think it’s just wherever he can get on a little better package. Moto2 would be a good option on the right bike.”