Hopkins targets podium in last Suzuki race

The American rider, who will move to the Kawasaki Racing Team next year, will start the race from the seventh spot on the grid and is happy with the work done.

"I'd have liked to have at least been on the second row, but I'm not too unhappy with where we have qualified," said Hopkins. "It was definitely our best session of the weekend this afternoon, and we have made some improvements to the machine.

"We worked hard with Bridgestone to find a consistent tyre to use in the race and we are really happy with what we have got. The crew have done an excellent job again this weekend to get the bike prepared and I feel really good as well, so now it's time to get a good start tomorrow and end my Suzuki career on a high.

"I am going for that podium - that's the ultimate plan!"