Hopkins 'feeling crap, riding like a pussy'.

Lone Team Suzuki rider John Hopkins will start Sunday's inaugural Turkish Grand Prix from just 14th on the grid after the combined effects of a cold and free practice fall left him 'riding like a pussy' during today's qualifying session.

Hopkins has been unable to shake off the effects of a heavy cold that he has suffered with all weekend and his misery was compounded this morning when he fell near the end of the final free practice session.

Although unhurt, the accident knocked the Anglo-American's confidence in the front end of his GSV-R and he was unable to give his usual 110 per cent in qualifying.

"This cold has got me feeling like crap and the crash this morning has had me riding the bike like a pussy!" admitted Hopper. "I'm really disappointed with myself and for the whole team, I know that a lot of things were expected of me this weekend as I am the only Suzuki rider here in Turkey. I just hope that I can make a recovery overnight and be back at my best for tomorrow - as I'm sure that a top 10 position is still obtainable."

"Our relative lack of performance is down in most part to John's physical condition which hasn't improved since yesterday afternoon - in fact if anything it is probably worse today. We hope he feels better in the morning and will be able to concentrate fully for the 22-lap race," said team manager Paul Denning.

"John needs to apply himself fully tomorrow and to do his best to get over his ailments and his slight lack of confidence and show us and Suzuki fans what he is made of. It's not going to be an easy race for the rider or for the tyres but we hope to improve over today's position," he added.

Meanwhile, Suzuki announced today that Hopkins' absent team-mate Kenny Roberts Jr will not be at Suzuki next season (see separate story).