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Madonna di Campiglio, Italy. American Nicky Hayden will have to make amends on the track after admitting on Tuesday he ruined the launch of Ducati’s new MotoGP bike by posting pictures of it on his own Web site.

The 2006 world champion, who finished 13th last season, visited the factory for an early glimpse of the 2010 bike but did not realize the design was meant to be secret. The GP10 was supposed to be unveiled this week at an Italian motorsport convention in the mountains.

“When I saw the bike, I took a picture on my phone. I should have known better. I was like a kid,” Hayden told reporters ahead of the season opener in Qatar on April 11.

Hayden said he did not think the departure of team principal Livio Suppo for Honda would adversely affect Ducati this season, especially given the strengths of the new bike.

“I like the bike, while another offseason with the team will be a big help for me,” the 28-year-old said. “Sure, the bike is good and we have a strong package for 2010. There’s been a few changes in the team. With changes, you have big opportunities.”

Hayden’s only worry is the enforced use of fewer engines this season in a further bid by MotoGP to cut costs.

“Six engines is not a lot for 18 races. I hope it saves some money, but I’m not sure how much it is going to save because it takes a lot of development to make them last,” he said.

Teammate Casey Stoner, the 2007 champion, is itching to challenge again after battling through injuries and illness last season.

Stoner, fourth last year, thinks he has detected a chink in the armor of world champion Valentino Rossi.

“Sometimes Valentino can be very quick over the weekend but then struggles in a race,” said Stoner, who wants to race cars like Rossi when they both retire.

MotoGP

Reuters