I saw this on Honda's MotoGP website (http://world.honda.com/WGP/2006/15japan/race/), and it explains why Honda could care less if Nicky won or lost. Just like Ferrari values the Constructors' Championship more than the Driver's Championship in F1. This is from Round 15 at Motegi, which is news to me:
"But as Hayden watched his points lead shrink to 12 points over his nearest challenger Rossi, Honda clinched both the Constructors’ World Championship and the Team prize via the Repsol Honda outfit. With two rounds to go Honda cannot be caught, but with a further 50 points up for grabs in the Riders’ series Hayden is now under acute pressure."
Figures ... Honda has the Constructors' Championship, and they think that's all they need to sell bikes. Well, when Vally wins the Championship next week, it'll be a different story.
"But as Hayden watched his points lead shrink to 12 points over his nearest challenger Rossi, Honda clinched both the Constructors’ World Championship and the Team prize via the Repsol Honda outfit. With two rounds to go Honda cannot be caught, but with a further 50 points up for grabs in the Riders’ series Hayden is now under acute pressure."
Figures ... Honda has the Constructors' Championship, and they think that's all they need to sell bikes. Well, when Vally wins the Championship next week, it'll be a different story.