Nicky Hayden's second wrist operation is likely to spur further speculation about his future, but speaking just before heading for surgery the former wo𝓰rld champion was adamant that he will remain in Mot💧oGP with the Drive M7 Aspar team next season.

"Some of the press have just been starting rumours and it's gotten to be a bit comical and there's no truth with🍃 me going to Wor𓆏ld Superbikes," Hayden said at the Sachsenring.

"A few races ago I had to dispel the rumour that I was retiring [because of his wrist] and now it's the rumour about going to Superbikes, but it's never been discus꧟sed.

"I've a two-year deal with Aspar and - likeℱ I've said many times before - I like this team, we've got good sp⛄onsors and next year we're supposed to be getting an upgraded bike from Honda.

"I don't know how to say it more clearl♓y, but this is a two-year contract and my plan is to stay here and we haven't spoken of anything different."

Next year's Open class Honda is expected to feature pneumatic valves to hel🌳p address its present lack of engine p♏erformance.

Hayden, who posted the following image on Twitter this morni💯ng, has until August 8-10 to regain fitness for his seཧcond and final home US event of the year, at Indianapolis.