Valentino Rossi had to swallow a huge disappointment due to an accident on the first lap Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday (02.10.11). In fact, "The Doctor" optimistic can fight to reach the podium at Motegi Circuit because the performance is quite promising Desmosedici GP11.1 mount.
Rossi came to Japan with high enough confidence. After being dropped on the first day of practice, seven-time MotoGP world champion has increased quite promising, including finishing in the top seven qualifying session. The 32-year-old Italian rider is increasingly showing signs of competitive after finishing a four-session warm-up.
Unfortunately, dreams are woven nine-time world champion grand prix should be dashed at the start of the race. When he was thrust into the front row after the start, Rossi made contact with former colleagues at Yamaha, Jorge Lorenzo, on the corner 2. Former Honda and Yamaha rider fell off and dragged through the gravel so that the failure to continue the race.
"It's a shame knocked out of the race after two corners, especially after we made progress this weekend, and with the knowledge that we have done well on the bike," Rossi said.
"I was in fourth place during the morning warm-up, and when you also consider the problems faced by Stoner, Simoncelli, and Dovizioso, we could fight for the podium, which of course would be very good for us."
"We were a bit unlucky. Unfortunately, Lorenzo bit wide onto the grass at turn one, and at the next corner he was suddenly moved to the right. He did not see me because I am a little behind."
"When he touched me, pushed his bike to Spies, which touched my front brake lever. This is the normal contact in a race, but I was in the wrong place and time."
"These are challenging times for us, but we hope to be on the right track."
