MotoGP: Chris Vermeulen says give Casey Stoner credit

Chris Vermeulen believes it is time for people to stop detracting from Casey Stoner’s impressive 2007 success and start paying him some more respect for an outstanding world championship-winning campaign.

Casey Stoner wrapped his first world title in Japan last weekend, but the Aussie’s critics have said he only won the title because of the performance advantage held by Ducati and Bridgestone.

Chris Vermeulen and Casey Stoner are close pals and the factory Suzuki rider said: “I think it is incredible what Casey has done this season. He has done an awesome job.

“A lot of people say it is the bike, that Ducati is the best and is so fast. It is quick and Casey has some advantages but I’m sure the Ducati also has some disadvantages but no one talks about them.

“There are three other Ducatis out there and he is wiping the floor with those guys every week.”

Vermeulen said the most impressive thing about his compatriot in 2007 has been his ability to withstand the intense pressure from Valentino Rossi in races like Qatar, Shanghai and Barcelona.

“The most impressive thing is the pressure he has put up with in different races. I put him under pressure in two races when I really pushed him but more importantly in the championship against Valentino Rossi.

“Actually racing and beating Valentino is impressive, and in some cases not beating him but then bouncing back the next week just as determined is something you have to admire, “said Chris Vermeulen.