Mechanical problems left the Kentucky rider with a DNF in the first race in Thailand, and he lamented the result and frustrations of the day. “I can’t be happy with a DNF, it was quite a shame,” said Hayden. “In the race we had some electrical problem and I wasn’t able to be consistent. A DNF is not good but more than anything it would have been nice to go the full distance to learn and to see what I can improve for tomorrow. This is racing and this is life, hopefully we can fix it up.”

The MotoGP Legend is a rookie in WorldSBK and already knocked on the door to the podium in Phillip Island, eventually just losing out to Davide Giugliano in Race 2 in Australia. “I need more experience with the qualifying tyres, I’ve got a lot to learn it’s clear.

“My pace wasn’t too bad. It wasn’t amazing but we’ll try and come back and finish strong tomorrow,” added Hayden. “I’ll say the same thing that I said in Phillip Island: I do love the two race format of WorldSBK and I’m definitely glad I don’t have to go home tonight.”

Race 2 sees the lights go out at 4pm local time (9am GMT) for the Honda rider to push for another great result in his rookie year.