MotoGP: Rossi ‘strong on paper’ at Motegi

Published: 12 October 2016 Updated: 12 October 2016

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Valentino Rossi has admitted that he’s looking forward to this weekend’s Japanese Grand prix at Motegi – a circuit that, on paper, should be strong for both the Italian rider and the Movistar Yamaha he rides.

“I love the three overseas races, these circuits are fantastic. On paper we are strong with the Yamaha, so I hope to fight for the victory. I‘m especially happy to go to Japan because it is the home of Yamaha and I will do my best to make it a good Grand Prix. I like the track and the atmosphere. I‘m in good shape and I’m ready for the three races in a row!”

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However, going into three back-to-back races where Repsol Honda rider Marc Marque enjoys a comfortable title lead, it’ll take nothing more than victory to help Rossi closedown his 43 point lead.

However he faces stiff opposition from not only Marquez but also from teammate Jorge Lorenzo, who also goes into the weekend fired up for the battle for second place in the title against Rossi at a circuit that he too is strong at.

We now kick off the most different part of the season and maybe the most exciting because we face three races in a row and they are all overseas, so physically and mentally it asks a lot from you. On the other hand it is a nice adventure every time we go there. First on the list is Motegi and this track gives me great memories.

“I love Japan and I like a lot this circuit because of the people and for Yamaha and the other Japanese manufacturers this Grand Prix is so important. This is the real home race! The end of the championship is still quite far away so we need to continue to ride in the best way possible, be competitive and try to win again. It would be fantastic to do that at Yamaha‘s home Grand Prix!”

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By Simon Patterson

MotoGP and road racing reporter, photographer, videographer