At present LCR is competing with a sole machine for Stefan Bradl, with whom team manager Lucio Cecchinello hopes to achieve regular top five finishes. From next year, though, the German will enjoy full ‘factory supported’ technology.
When asked by motogp.com if a second bike will be possible next season, Cecchinello replied:
“For sure this is something we are looking for. If we are going to do it, of course we need to make a plan; not just to put another rider in the team, but to put together a plan to come up with a young, talented rider who deserves our support and hopefully the support of our sponsors.
“We are slowly discussing that with them because Honda is also particular interested in developing young and talented riders, especially those coming from south Asia. Of course, the reality is that the motorsport culture in south Asia is growing a lot, so we need to be open-minded and give opportunities to local talented riders.”
Going on to discuss whether the second rider could appear by as early as 2014, Cecchinello confirms the target but is staying realistic.
“It’s a possibility but, again, if we do something it needs to be with the right rider and the right sponsor behind him,” the Italian continues. “So for now let’s continue to do our best with Stefan Bradl while keeping our eyes on what can be done for 2014. If it doesn’t turn out to be possible to run a second bike in 2014, then it doesn’t matter; we would just keep looking forward to the future.”
In 2012 LCR and Bradl enjoyed four top five race finishes, the best of which was fourth at Mugello in the Italian Grand Prix.
Source: http://www.motogp.com