Capirossi eager to beat Ducati in 2008

Capirossi left the Italian squad at the end of the campaign after five years with the team. He will ride for the Suzuki team next season.

The 34-year-old finished in eighth place in the standings this year, despite teammate Casey Stoner showing Ducati had the bike to beat, with 10 victories on his way to the title.

Now Capirossi admits he is willing to start the season with the Suzuki on the right foot.

"I feel inside me an incredible will to beat Ducati immediately," Capirossi told Gazzetta dello Sport. "Let me explain: I have an incredible will to beat Ducati at the first race because that would mean that my Suzuki is really strong.

"It's true that at one point there was a chance of a third Ducati, but for me that was always a second choice, honestly. In fact it was a third choice, because I had offers from Suzuki and Kawasaki and I opted for the former because I felt closer to it.

"When I hopped on the Suzuki I immediately realized it could suit my riding style. I think I'll enjoy myself plenty next year, because after several years I will have a new toy in my hands.

"The biggest rivals are Stoner, Valentino, Pedrosa and Melandri as well."