Vermeulen aims to leave on a high

The Australian has already confirmed he will return to World Superbikes next year and will be racing in MotoGP for the final time at the Ricardo Tormo circuit this weekend.

The Suzuki rider is determined to leave the category with a strong showing.

"I am totally focused on going out on a high at Valencia," said Vermeulen. "This will be my last race in MotoGP - for at least a couple of years - and I want to make sure it is one that I can be proud of.

"My time with the Suzuki team has been great and my crew has worked tirelessly throughout my time here to give me the best bike they can whatever the conditions, so a good result will be as much for them as for myself. I have scored points in every race this year and want to make the last one the highest points scoring one.

"I will certainly be going for a podium this weekend, I know that will be tough, but that's the target and one that I would really love to achieve!"

Loris Capirossi is also aiming for a strong race to make amends for a disappointing race in Malaysia.

"I am heading to Valencia in a totally fixed and determined state of mind," he said. "Last time at Malaysia was disappointing for the race, but the work we did in the dry leading up to race-day was very important and we will be able to use that info in Valencia.

"I am really confident that we can make a big impact at the last race and give the whole team something positive to take into the winter and on to 2010."