Strong rumours around the MotoGP paddock are insisting the reason why Kawasaki’s John Hopkins was not out in the first two free practices at Misano are that he went on a massive drinking binge on the Thursday night.

The official line from Kawasaki was that he had aggravated a rib injury which got better in time for Saturday’s practice and qualifying sessons. However, it is believed that Hopper was drinking into the early hours of Friday because of marital problems.

It is thought that Kawasaki won’t sack the rider, but he is to receive some severe disciplinary action.