Toseland gives thumbs up to Qatar night race for 08

James Toseland is one of five MotoGP riders to give the all clear to a floodlit night race at the Qatar circuit in 2008.

Part of the track was set up with floodlights today (Tuesday, November 13) and five GP riders took to the track on road going motorcycles at 7:30pm local time to make sure they were comfortable with the conditions and none of the safety precautions, like marshal’s flags, were affected by the change in light.

All the riders, including Toseland on his Yamaha R1, gave the race a unanimous thumbs up.

“It’s going to be so exciting to race under floodlights,” said Loris Capirossi. “The difference from when we first tested here at night is amazing. Back then I wasn’t too sure what was possible, but the lighting is perfect out there! There’s hardly any difference between day and night riding in these conditions, and of course it’s going to be more exciting to race at night. There’s no problems with shadows or reflections, I’m very happy with this.”

The race will take place on March 9, 2008.