CARL Fogarty has always been proud of his English heritage so when it came to setting up his own racing team he was fiercely determined to sign a British rider.

And in James Haydon he has plumped for a man who is widely regarded as one of the most exciting talents in British motorcycling.

An aggressive and determined rider, the 28-year-old has taken something of a gamble in making the leap to the World Superbike stage.

But his years of experience in GPs and the British Superbike Championship should help him to meet the challenge head-on.

Haydon himself is relishing the chance to turn the potential of his British Superbike performances into world championship results -- something he has threatened to do for some years.

And with characters like Fogarty, Troy Corser and Nigel Bosworth to guide him along, don't bet against him making a big impact at world level over the next two years.

Haydon said: "This is a one-off opportunity and a great chance. I've been working hard to go into World Championships for the last few years and cannot wait to take this fantastic opportunity to develop a new bike and make the most of the technology funded by Petronas.

"The more I think about it, the more pumped up I get and I can't wait to get on the bike and start testing.

"There are not many riders who have Carl's standing in the sport and I am delighted he has shown this faith in my ability.

"It's a new role for him but he feels he can help me as a rider and I expect him to be hard but fair."

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Runner up in British 250cc Championship - 1993

First season in GPs - 1995

Consistent top privateer in WSB (WSB Privateer Team) - 1997

Seventh in British Championship (Suzuki Privateer Team) - 1998

Fifth in British Superbike Championship (Suzuki Full Works) - 1999

Fourth in British Superbike Championship (Red Bull Ducati) - 2000

Fourth in British Superbike Championship (Virgin Mobile AIWA Yamaha) - 2001