"I'm not in the position where I can race for free any more..."

This just in from Jason Pridmore, via the Race24 Message Board:

“I felt compelled to drop the Race24.com website a little insight into what is happening. I'm currently in England enjoying the great weather. First off let me say that to come back to the WEC is what I have wanted to do for the past three years. My association with Suzuki in the States has prevented me from doing so even though now I realize I should have asked. They have been great to let me come over on another brand.

“I was contacted by another Yamaha team originally and the ball was rolling. As it looked I thought I would end up back at Phase One with old friends and have a go at doing what we did in 2003.

“In January I agreed to ride for Russell and the boys at Phase One. One of the main things for me was to be able to ride with Warwick. That part looked certain from Russell's point of view. I had a sponsor in America that was gonna help make all this possible. I understand where Phase One is financially, I rode for them for 7 years. I was making a great living in America at the time so taking money from the team back then wasn't something I went after. I loved the team and the series and wanted to win a World Championship and spent my own money doing it. I realized MotoGP or World Supers weren't in my cards but an FIM medal was attainable in WEC. We ended up having a good year with Suzuka being a true highlight.

“Sad truth is, losing my personal sponsor four weeks ago put me in a horrible way. Coming from America to race is very expensive. I'm not in the position where I can race for free any more and didn't feel it was right to go to Russ for more money than we already agreed on. He knows my situation, we have spoken. He made a guaranteed offer for the 1st two rounds but I want to do the whole series.

“Getting the opportunity to speak with Warwick about the Maco Moto team has been great. I fully trusted what he said and the fact that Denisa has been so nice is truly a bonus. My opinion so far is that she is a straight shooter and there is no beating around the bush. I have spoken with quite a few people about the team and what they are bringing to the table equipment-wise. Who knows? Maybe we will surprise a few people. Having Steve Rose on board was a big plus for me also. I realise none of you know Dave Stanton over here. Great guy, fast rider who doesn't put it on the deck.

“In closing, I look forward to seeing all of you at the races. Both Martin and Clive have stayed in touch with me over the years, very nice. We will all roll on to Le Mans and see what everyone has got, should be exciting and I can hardly wait. I'm off for a run, thanks for your time...”