FORMER Grand Prix rider Grzegorz Walasek has slammed claims he demanded too much money to stay with champions Zielona Gora.The ex-Poole and Lakeside man lifted the Polish Ekstraliga title with the team last year, but was unable to agree terms to stay for 2010.

FORMER Grand Prix rider Grzegorz Walasek has slammed claims he demanded too much money to stay with champions Zielona Gora.

The ex-Poole and Lakeside man lifted the Polish Ekstraliga title with the team last year, but was unable to agree terms to stay for 2010.

Club president Robert Dowhan reportedly claimed the 33-year-old's wage demands were too high. Walasek has since signed for Bydgoszcz, while American legend Greg Hancock replaces him at Zielona Gora.

The Polish international spent 11 seasons in two separate spells riding for the club. He first signed for them in 1993 but left for Czestochowa in 2000, before rejoining from the Lions in 2006.

Walasek was given a hot reception by a section of the team's support at an ice meeting in Opolu. But he admits they retain a special place in his heart and hit back at claims his wage demands were excessive.

He said: “What the president said to the fans is pure political jigsaw puzzle. The easiest way to wash your hands of the situation is to say that a rider asked for too much money.

“I have a suggestion for Robert. If he wants, I am willing to show what the president offered me and what the other rider (Hancock) got. Then they will really see what money we're talking about.

“But I will not be on the pages of the media arguing with Robert. I think I did a lot for the club and did not deserve such a farewell.”

Of the fans' reaction to his departure in Opolu, Walasek added: “I do not know exactly what the matter was. Let them be as they are. I will always love them no matter what they scream.”

Speedwaygp.com