I have made no or little secret that I believe Hopkins to have been over-rated (media wise) and delivering of very little when in MotoGP (and he is not alone there), so take this with a grain of salt if need be but.
Hopkins I think is a WSBK level rider (no disrespect to anyone) as I think the paddock is better suited to his mindset while the bike are better suited to his obvious skillset. He is no donkey when it comes to ability and has been somewhat unlucky a few times of late with injuries and not being the correct nationality for DORNA.
I would think that Hopkins has plenty to offer the world that is WSBK and all teams could do a lot worse than hire someone with his skill, but the question is whether he will fit into the existing teams in terms of 'harmony' etc.
Were I stiggy and I had a guy paying his own way (if true), I would keep him as the simple 'Return on Investment (ROI)' that rider affors and provides is exceptional given that the rider is a media machine like Hopkins. That is not meant to be detrimental but as an ex-MGP rider he will always attract attention and as such will be able to provide sponsors etc with good value for money, and all this before he produces on the track.
Away from WSBK I do not see Hopkins returning to MGP but could see a BSB or AMA ride, moreso BSB given the upheaval in AMA. Again, he would be an attractive proposition for a team in BSB (or other high profile championship) simply because of the attention that follows and in BSB terms it would raise the profile of that championship in the US (as an example).
I wouldn't be to concerned as if his mental state is right (attitude etc) than he will get rides, otherwise he will fade away and retire although I feel it is way to early to be retiring or writing Hopkins off.
Gaz
