MotoGP champs to meet Nelson Mandela.

Reigning World Champions Kenny Roberts Jr, Olivier Jacque and Roberto Locatelli are to meet former South African president and international freedom icon, Nelson Mandela, on the eve of next weekend's South African GP.

The champions have been invited to a special reception at Mandela's residence near Johannesburg, where they will have a chance to talk to the Republic of South African's foremost elder statesman.

"I don't know what we will talk about - but I don't think it will be about tyre choices or suspension settings," quipped 500cc champ Roberts.

"All I know is it's a real big honour for myself and the other champions in our sport to meet a world leader of the stature of Nelson Mandela."

Roberts, son of triple World Champion Kenny Roberts Senior, will be accompanied by Team Suzuki manager Garry Taylor, who echoed his sentiments.

"When Nelson Mandela was imprisoned in the old South Africa, I recall - along with many people all over the world - supporting the Free Nelson Mandela events. I shared the Euphoria with all those people when he was released," said Taylor.

"To be able to meet him will mean a lot to me personally. It will be a privilege to shake the hand of a man with a world-wide reputation for the highest principles, who made such personal sacrifices for his beliefs."