From a press release issued by Team Suzuki News Service:

HOPKINS DISQUALIFIED FROM MALAYSIAN GP


Twin Ring Motegi, Japan– Sunday, October 5, 2003:

Team Suzuki rider John Hopkins has been disqualified from next weekend’s Malaysian GP, as punishment for a first-corner accident at Sunday’s Pacific GP at Motegi in Japan.

Hopkins collided with Carlos Checa, causing both to fall, and also Australian rider Troy Bayliss, who was closed behind. American rider Colin Edwards was also involved, but did not fall.

Hopkins admitted at the time that he had got into the first corner too hot in his enthusiasm to make a good start, and publicly apologised to all the other riders.

After the race, however, Race Direction elected to punish his error by disqualifying him from the next round, at Sepang in Malaysia next weekend. According to the official statement, he had “ridden in an irresponsible manner causing danger to other riders.”

The team immediately protested the decision, but it was confirmed by the FIM stewards later that evening.

A disappointed Hopkins left the circuit without making any further comment.

Team manager Garry Taylor said: “We appealed, but it was rejected, and we are deeply disappointed.

“In our opinion, the punishment is overly severe.

“There have been many similar incidents in the past that have gone completely unpunished. In our view, it was a normal racing incident.

“However, we have to accept the authority of the stewards,” concluded Taylor.

As a result, only two Suzukis will take part in next weekends race, ridden by team regular Kenny Roberts Jr., and wild card entry Akira Ryo, who finished 15th and tenth respectively in today’s race.