Rossi: IRTA tests critical

Former world champion reckons the final two pre-season tests in Qatar and Jerez will be absolutely critical in shaping the formbook in the early part of the new 800cc MotoGP world championship.
Just six days of testing remain before the season kicks off, with IRTA tests in Qatar and Jerez in the next two weeks. Those tracks host the first two races of the season and factory Yamaha rider Rossi said it was essential to find a set-up and Michelin tyres for the first two rounds.
The Italian said: “In Qatar and Jerez we will work a lot on the tyres for Michelin to make the right choice for the race, Now we go in Qatar and this is where the first race is. This is very important to understand if the bike has chatter. I don’t think so but we wait. 
“Qatar will be very important because we have the first race there.” The opening race will be held at Qatar’s Losail International Circuit on March 10, with Jerez following on March 25 before a month long break.