Jorge Lorenzo confident in 2009 title challenge

Spaniard Jorge Lorenzo believes the switch to Bridgestone tyres will allow him to mount a much more serious challenge to win the MotoGP world crown in 2009.

Lorenzo had an impressive rookie campaign on the Fiat Yamaha, winning in only his third race and claiming four pole positions, three of which came in his first three races in Qatar, Jerez and Estoril.

The double world 250 champion ended the season in fourth place in the final standings and six podiums, but much of his campaign was spent recovering from injury as he suffered massive crashes in Shanghai, Barcelona and Laguna Seca.

Asked whether he thought the introduction of a single tyre rule would help his title prospects in 2009, he told MCN: “I feel that in this category if you have the tools to compete you can do well.

“I am in a level that I can win races but U have to have these tools and maybe next year I will have these tools. I hope to have the chance to fight for the championship.”

Lorenzo ended 2008 by posting the third fastest time in the final test session in Jerez last week.

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