Hopkins switches to World Superbikes

The 25-year-old American had been left on the sidelines when Kawasaki announced it was pulling out of MotoGP at the start of 2009.

It had initially been thought that Hopkins would be part of any rescue plan, but Marco Melandri was named as the sole rider when a deal was reached for the ex-factory team to continue running under the Hayate Racing banner, with Hopkins opting to move on.

"Kawasaki and I worked it out where both parties left the relationship happy, and I am thankful to Kawasaki for letting me ride their bikes and race in their programme," said Hopkins.

"I'm excited about racing in the 2009 season and solely putting my focus on moving forward."

Hopkins had a miserable, injury-plagued, year with Kawasaki in 2008. He had hoped to lead the team forward after joining following a breakthrough 2007 season with Suzuki, but ended up only 16th in the championship, with just one top five finish to his name.