Hopkins: Don't ban Capirossi.

John Hopkins has stated that he doesn't want the FIM to impose any form of sanction on Loris Capirossi for causing the first turn accident at Motegi, despite the Anglo-American having himself been suspended for a near identical offence one year ago.

Capirossi appeared to miss his braking point - then collected Hopkins at high-speed - as the MotoGP field entered turn one of Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix (pictured).

Both Hopkins and Capirossi were thrown through the air as a result of the impact, while four other riders were also eliminated from the race in the mayhem that followed. Three of the riders - Hopkins, Capirossi and Kenny Roberts - later required medical attention for broken or dislocated bones.

In 2003 - at the same race track - Hopkins was given a fine and one race suspension for causing an almost identical first turn accident and, while many believed that the #21 had been treated exceptionally harshly, it was expected that a similar punishment would be given to Capirossi... but no action was taken.

Nevertheless, Hopkins has said that - while extremely disappointed with being caught up in an incident outside of his control, especially when he had such a good opportunity to claim his first podium - he ultimately feels that it was simply a racing accident and holds no ill will towards the Italian.

"Of all the people who should understand that Loris was simply trying to do what he could to make a good start at Motegi, it's me," explained John. "I may have said some things in the heat of the moment that expressed my anger immediately after the incident, but ultimately I forgive Loris and do not feel he should be sanctioned.

"Every rider on the grid of a MotoGP is by necessity highly qualified to be there. I don't believe anyone out there is trying to intentionally take someone out. We are all too professional for that," added the 21-year-old, who was left with two broken ribs and a deep laceration.

Hopkins is currently recuperating in London and plans to race in next weekend's Qatar Grand Prix, however Suzuki team-mate Roberts will miss the event after dislocating his elbow in the accident. Capirossi, who broke two bones in his foot, hopes to be fit.