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Lorenzo excited for home grand prix

For rookie sensation Lorenzo the race in Jerez marks his home debut in the premier-class and he heads into the race full of confidence after taking centre stage under the floodlights of Doha. The 20-year-old started from pole position and finished on the podium in his maiden MotoGP appearance, meaning he lies second in the championship heading to Jerez - a circuit that holds no secrets for the Mallorcan.

Lorenzo made history on home soil as the youngest rider ever to qualify for a Grand Prix on his 15th birthday in the 125cc class back in 2002 and 250cc victories for the past two seasons have contributed to his rise as a national hero.

"Qatar was unbelievable and something I will remember forever," Lorenzo said. "I've felt great since and now I'm really excited about the next one; I never expected to be going into only my second MotoGP race in such a great position in the classification! However I know it will be hard work for me again in Jerez and it's still just my second race on the M1.

"I will have to work and focus very hard in practice if I want to be able to repeat the Qatar experience. In November at the test I had some difficulties but in February I did one of my best laps of the whole winter, despite the bad weather, and I hope I can be even faster this time.

"Jerez for me last year was a fantastic race, I took pole position and the victory and I also won in 2006 so I have some great memories of racing here. Jerez is undoubtedly a special track for me; it's my home, I know it very well and it's the track where I rode in my very first GP in 2002. It's also the first place I ever planted my 'Lorenzo's Land' flag! It will always be in my heart. I feel quite different going to race in Spain now compared to last year when I was in 250. Now I am at the top and I feel very much in the spotlight. Qatar changed everything for me and now I hope that I can continue in the same way in front of my home fans!"

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