Rossi and Lorenzo expecting another thriller
Added on Thursday, June 25th, 2009 by Carole Nash Editor
Rossi and Lorenzo expecting another thriller
Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo will renew their rivalry in Assen this weekend after a thrilling battle in Barcelona two weeks ago.
The Fiat Yamaha pair were involved in a classic battle during the Catalan Grand Prix a fortnight ago, with Rossi stealing victory on the final turn on the final lap to snatch victory and pull level in the championship standings with Lorenzo and Casey Stoner.
Fans heading to Assen this weekend will be hoping to see more of the same on the legendary circuit, particularly from Rossi who finished a lowly 11th at the circuit last year following a first lap crash.
“Assen is a very special track for all riders and it is a wonderful place to ride a MotoGP bike, even if it was better before they changed the layout,” claimed Rossi. “Last year I had my worst point of the season there so I want to make up for that with a good performance, because the fans are very passionate and they deserve a good show.
“After Barcelona we know how strong we are but also our rivals are strong too so we can’t afford to relax, we have to keep pushing.
“Montmelo was fantastic, one of my best wins ever, but the championship is very close between the three of us and so we have to try to win again to take the lead. There is still a long way to go but we have to remain consistent.”
Teammate Lorenzo was equally optimistic on his chances of claiming the victory that will see Saturday’s winner jump to the top of the rider’s standings.
“I could never have imagined after the crash in Jerez that I would have the opportunity to become leader again so quickly, but here we are at the front with Casey and Valentino,” he said. “The last three races have been fantastic and almost unbelievable, and now for the three of us it’s almost like we’re starting the championship all over again.
“Assen is my favourite track and I am going there feeling very confident in my bike and my Bridgestone tyres and with all the team feeling very motivated. Last year I was sixth so the most important thing is to improve on that, but of course I am aiming for another podium, because consistency is the way to remain close to the top of the standings.
“We had a positive test in Barcelona and now I will hope to show our improvements with an even better performance in Holland.”
