Samsung Suzuki's John Hopkins looks set to move on to the world stage in 2012 after being narrowly beaten to the 2011 British Superbike Championship by Tommy Hill at Brands Hatch yesterday.
The American has reportedly got options with his current team in World Superbikes, and may even have Hill as a team-mate, but is also in talks with LCR Honda for a MotoGP seat.
"Well I don't feel great obviously, but I don't feel completely empty either. This has been a great season, I gave it everything I had but it just wasn't to be. So hats off to Tommy for taking the title," said Hopkins.
"I couldn't be more grateful to the Samsung Crescent Racing team, they gave me everything including the best bike out there. I came into this year on a make or break basis in terms of my racing career but with their help I'm now set for a world championship ride next year. The team has put me there. I'm hugely grateful."
