Qatar test: Jorge Lorenzo finally shines under Qatar floodlights

Fiat Yamaha rider and 2008 MotoGP rookie sensation Jorge Lorenzo left it late to prove that he his winning his battle to adjust to Bridgestone tyres ahead of the first race in Qatar next month.

Lorenzo ended the three-night test with the second quickest time as he once again showed his prowess for setting fast times on worn tyres.

His best lap of 1.56.733 came on his very last lap of the last night and was at the end of a hugely impressive full 22-lap race simulation at the Losail International Circuit.

His last five laps were all in the 1.56 bracket, with his best on his final lap. Lorenzo’s best time in last month’s Sepang test in Malaysia was also recorded on the last lap of a long distance race run.

The Spaniard was jubilant at shaving a massive 1.7s off his best time from the second night, but he was still hammered by Ducati rival Casey Stoner.

While Lorenzo was closest to Stoner’s blistering pace, it was little consolation as he was 0.12s away from being a full second slower than Stoner.

The double world 250 champion told MCN: “I am much happier. I finally felt like I was getting comfortable with the Bridgestone tyres because the switch has not been as easy as I expected.

“I was very fast at the end of the race simulation again, which proves we should be in good shape for the race here in six weeks.

“I had a really good feeling with the bike and the tyres and now I am much more confident about my chances in the race.”