Lorenzo to take the fight to Rossi
Added on Monday, June 15th, 2009 by Carole Nash Editor
Lorenzo to take the fight to Rossi
Jorge Lorenzo was full of admiration for teammate Valentino Rossi after Sunday’s thrilling Catalunya GP but promised to take the fight to the world champion.
Rossi’s last-gasp pass on Lorenzo in what was an enthralling final lap proved to be the telling moment of a thrilling battle between the two Fiat Yamaha riders who now stand level in the championship on 106 points, as does Ducati’s Casey Stoner.
But the 22-year-old was quick to congratulate Rossi despite the heartbreaking defeat on his home circuit.
“I’m used to normally winning the battles, but today I had a battle with the best and I couldn’t beat him, he was more clever and brave,” he told BBC Sport.
“In the easiest corner to maintain first position, he overtook me so I have to learn a lot of things still in this category.”
Lorenzo did however hint at more to come as Rossi interrupted his television interview to congratulate him, with Lorenzo then turning back to the camera and said “next time”.
Following the post-race presentations, Lorenzo gave his account of that thrilling last lap battle.
“This was an incredible battle today and a brilliant show for everyone, I am happy to have been a part of it,” he added.
“Of course I am sad to have lost because I put my heart on my bike and in my career I am more used to winning these last-lap fights, but today Valentino was maybe a little bit cleverer or a little bit braver than me at the very end and he was able to beat me. In fact during that last lap, after I passed him, I expected him to pass me back on the brakes much earlier but he didn’t come, and then I just didn’t close the line enough on the final corner and that was it.
“I am proud however because I am young and I still have a lot to learn in this class. My team have worked so well all weekend so thanks to them, if we can continue as strongly as this all season then who knows what can happen?”
