Estoril MotoGP: Valentino Rossi claims first Bridgestone front row

Valentino Rossi claimed his first Bridgestone front row start in Estoril today in a qualifying session dominated by rivals Michelin.

The Italian was the only Bridgestone rider in the top eight with struggling reigning world champion Casey Stoner down in ninth.

His third place behind Spanish duo Jorge Lorenzo and world championship leader Dani Pedrosa was not only his first for Bridgestone but it was also the first top three qualifying result for the Japanese factory this season.

The 29-year-old, who escaped injury in a big high-side crash yesterday, said: “I’m really happy! It’s very important to be on the first row here and now we can think about trying to win tomorrow.

“We’ve made some big steps forward with Bridgestone and considering that every time we use the qualifying tyre it’s still a bit like a test, it’s a great achievement to be here.

“Today my bike and tyres worked very well and I felt confident and strong. We have a good setting and I can ride how I want to, which is great fun as well! Now I really hope that we can have a good race tomorrow. The weather is a worry and we will have to wait until last thing to make our final tyre choice, but we have some good ideas.

“Lorenzo and Pedrosa are looking very strong but I think we are not so far and we have a chance to be there tomorrow. There is a great atmosphere in our box and everyone is looking forward to tomorrow’s challenge.”