Spies to Gresini Honda?

It's that time of year again. From:

http://www.visordown.com/motorcyclenews/view/motogp_whos_going_where_in_2009__the_latest/5352.html

comes this:

'Ben Spies is close to signing up with the satellite Gresini Honda
team, with Honda US contributing to the Italian team's budget in
return. According to Spies manager Doug Gonda: “There are discussions,
and things are moving fairly rapidly right now. But there are some
decisions that are beyond out control. We hope to know in about ten
days.” Asked why Suzuki was not trying harder to keep him, he said:
“That's hard to figure. They tell me they'd like to keep him, but they
haven't indicated to me how they would like to do it. There's been no
firm offer.” '

 

Eh, I'll believe that one when I see it. I know this has been in
discussion, but it strikes me that Gonda is just trying to work up the
bidding price and to get Suzuki thinking he'll actually sign somewhere
else if they don't get off the pot and do something. But a satellite
Honda would be the absolute kiss of death for a 5-11, 160lb American,
and Spies isn't stupid. And American Honda paying for it all? I know
they suddenly may have some budget freed up and their boy Nick is all
but gone, but to hire a guy who isn't even associated with their brand
to race in Europe? Sounds like a stretch. If Spies was to go to a
satellite team, I'd think Pramac would be his choice, particularly
after seeing Elias and Guintoli up close on them at Donington and
Laguna. Of course there's probably not a big check there, unless
Ducati has real interest and wants him in reserve.

Meanwhile, Suzuki continues to waffle on Capirossi and Vermeulen. That
those guys have been on the box the last three races does nothing for
Ben's chances, even if Chris is just a rain/Laguna specialist and
Loris is the oldest guy in that paddock and will never win Suzuki a
championship. What would be embarrassing for them is to re-sign both
and then see Ben beat them and put it on the box at Indy...