Thitipong Warokorn to Replace Ratthapark Wilairot at Indy
After considering their options for several races Honda Thailand took the decision following the most recent round of the Moto2 World Championship at Sachsenring to replace Team Honda Thai Gresini Moto2 rider Ratthapark Wilairot with his Thai compatriot Thitipong Warokorn for the foreseeable future.It has been a difficult period for Wilairot, who has struggled for confidence and concentration this season, prompting Honda Thailand to offer him a period of rest in order to recover his motivation for MotoGP. Warokorn is 24 years of age and currently competes in the Asian Championship. He will make his Moto2 World Championship debut this weekend at the Indianapolis Grand Prix.
Alaksh Phornprapha (Director, AP Honda) “ Unfortunately at this moment in time Feem is not focused and does not have the necessary confidence to compete in the next few rounds of the championship. He needs to recover his self-confidence and find the motivation to achieve his goals in MotoGP. For the time being it is better for him to spend time with his family and his young son, so we have decided to replace him with another Thai rider that we have high hopes for in Thitipong Warokon, who will take over riding duties this weekend at the Indianapolis Grand Prix.”
Fausto Gresini (Team Manager, Gresini Racing) “ I am disappointed because we have a great relationship with Feem but we trust the judgement of Honda Thailand. Feem has not been happy for a while and we think an intense period of rest is what he needs to rediscover his motivation to return to MotoGP. His substitute Thitipong Warokon is an interesting addition to the team and we will work hard to integrate him as quickly as possible to the group and help him to make swift progress.”
