Valencian Grand Prix - MotoGP

Kiyonari joins up with Camel Honda in Valencia

There are some circuits loved by the riders, and some circuits loved by the
fans. The Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia certainly falls into the latter
category with its location within what feels like a giant stadium, which allows
spectators to see practically the whole track. As such the stands that surround
the circuit are packed to the brim with fervent supporters, creating an
incredible atmosphere for the last race of the championship which will see the
appreciate return of one of its young former rider after a year's absence.
Japanese youngster Ryuichi Kiyonari will ride as substitute for Troy Bayliss,
who has not recovered in time for this weekend's race in Valencia, and he will
be joined on track by his experienced Camel Honda colleague, Alex Barros.

Sito Pons - Camel Honda

"It's a great pleasure for our team to end the season  in Spain, not only
because the track is just a couple of hundred miles from the team's technical
base, but also because Valencia is always packed with masses of fans and offers
exciting racing. The only negative is Troy's absence, who we had hoped up to the
last moment would join us to end the season, and also because he had a great
podium finish here last year. However we are also delighted to welcome another
talented young rider as is Kiyonari, who already has a season of MotoGP under
his belt and who knows both the bike and the track. Alex won here with us in
2002 already, and he certainly has the chance to repeat this result."

Alex Barros

"After the Turkish GP I went back to Brazil for a week where I recharged the
batteries a bit for the last race of the season. I had a very relaxing time and
I feel much better physically. Valencia is a strange track, very physical
because there isn't a long straight which with these bikes helps you catch your
breath, but it is enjoyable. I also remember fondly the great victory here in
2002,  so things bode well for us. I would love to finish the season on a high."

Ryuichi Kyionari

"It was a great surprise for me when they offered me the chance to ride in the
last round of the MotoGP World Championship with the Camel Honda team. It was a
surprise but also very exciting. I don't think it will be too difficult to adapt
to the changes and the development the RCV has had this year, nor to find the
feeling with a MotoGP bike after spent the year on a Superbike. I also think the
track will help me adapt quickly, because I really like it here in Valencia. I
hope to have a good race."