From a press release issued by Honda Racing:

HONDA RACING INFORMATION

Sunday 31st October 2004

HAYDEN SIGNS NEW DEAL WITH FACTORY HONDA TEAM

Honda today announced that Nicky Hayden will ride in the Official Honda Factory Team for 2005 and 2006.

The 23-year-old from Owensboro, Kentucky, USA arrived in MotoGP at the start of 2003, fresh from being crowned the youngest ever AMA Superbike Champion. The talented American was Rookie of the Year in his first season with the Repsol Honda Team and although 2004 has been hard he has secured front row starts and podiums in his second year with the team.

Hayden commented; “I’m so happy to be able to announce this news. I’ve been racing with Honda for six years and I’m real pleased that they have shown faith in me to sign me up for another couple of years. I’m under no illusions; it’s not going to be easy but Honda are building a new team around me for 2005 and I’m going all out to reach my full potential. I‘d like to say a big thanks to all the guys who have helped me so much over the last few years; it was fun and I really appreciate all the work.”

Satoru Horiike – HRC Managing Director said of Hayden; “We look at Nicky as a long term hope for Honda – a future Champion. He works hard and gives 100%. He still has a lot to learn and we propose to put everything in place to give him and his new team every chance of success. The past two years have been a good experience for Nicky. He has learnt the tracks and learnt about MotoGP and we want to teach him to win and to make a habit of it!”

Honda also announced today that Alex Barros’ one-year contract with the Repsol Honda Team wouldn’t be extended. Horiike continued; “It has been a pleasure to work with Alex this year and we wish him well. He and his team have put everything into this year and sadly have not had much to celebrate. We at Honda need to be fighting at the front of the pack on a regular basis and will be announcing a replacement and new team mate for Hayden in the near future.”