Hayden fired up for 'true' home race

As America's only current MotoGP representative, Nicky Hayden is eager to give a good account of himself at his 'true' home race on Sunday at Indianapolis.

The Kentucky star lives only a few hours drive from the 'Brickyard' and the Power Electronics Aspar Honda rider is extra motivated this year after missing the event in 2014 due to a wrist injury.

"I am excited to race at Indianapolis, my true home Grand Prix, which is really close to where I live. Unfortunately I had to miss it last year and it was tough to be there watching without being able to take part," said the 2006 premier class champion.

"It also means I haven't had chance to evaluate the changes to the track myself yet, although the feedback from the other riders was generally positive, so I'm looking forward to riding.

"We will be competing alongside the MotoAmerica boys, who will be riding from Thursday so there should be some rubber laid down for when we go out on Friday, which is good," Hayden added.

"It is no secret that the first half of the season has not gone as well as we'd hoped. I have had chance to rest up a little over the last three weeks and also get some training done.

"I am sure we will return at a higher level for the second half of the season."