| FTR MOTO STILL HOPING FOR MOTO2 DEBUT IN 2009 |
| FTR MOTO remains hopeful of its new Moto2 machine contesting the Spanish CEV Buckler Championship in 2009 and the World Championship in the future despite a delay due to further discussions regarding the technical regulations for the new category. Current technical regulations offer machine constructors the opportunity to use a base engine of its choice but recent discussions within the Grand Prix structure of decision-making may now reconsider that scenario. “The regulations, released in December, offer the fantastic prospect of a new Grand Prix class of racing, a class which may produce some of the most exciting racing of modern times,” explained FTR Moto director Steve Bones. He continued: “The current rules offer a cost effective option for Grand Prix teams to move to fourstroke racing, they also offer an opportunity for new innovation, which excites ourselves, and also the chance for potential new engine suppliers to display their ability and produce prototype motors. Above all perhaps, this represents a value for money and competitive option for private teams and riders." “As far as we understand there is now the potential of a one-make engine, supplied by one manufacturer. While it is difficult to understand the logic behind this it is also unclear as to why a regulation may now be considered for change with development of Moto2 machines well under way. Since announcing its Moto2 project two weeks ago FTR Moto has received a healthy response from teams looking to run its new M209 machine. Each team has different ideas towards the make of engine they may use but the final regulations, due to be announced in the coming weeks, will determine if such projects can now proceed or not. Bones concluded: “We are under way with our own prototype machine development, as are five or six other constructors, we have a team in Spain ready to race our machine from round three of the Spanish Championship at Valencia in July. “The initial regulations are perfect for at least an initial two or three-year launch of the new Moto2 category in Grands Prix. They will also lead to new national championship classes, as we have seen with the intentions of the Spanish Championship organisers Dorna, something that would seem difficult with a single engine rule. “Through common regulations and machinery at all levels of competition there will also be the possibility of competitive wild card entries to Grands Prix.” FTR Moto will now await the outcome of discussions in the near future regarding the Moto2 technical regulations. |
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