MotoGP news

Yamaha duo prepared for Le Mans

Valentino Rossi is hoping to claim another Grand Prix victory in Le Mans this weekend, having crossed the finish line first in France last year. The Fiat Yamaha rider currently leads the championship by eleven points from Casey Stoner and is bidding to become to first man to win two races this season.

"My memories of Le Mans last year are amazing because it was my 90th career victory and I made the lap of honour with Angel Nieto on my bike with me, because I equalled his record," said the World Champion. "Also there were three Yamaha's on the podium, which was very special. Things are great in our team at the moment; we made a big step forward in Jerez; my bike was fantastic and it was great to win again.

Rossi claimed victory in the south of Spain last time out

"Le Mans is a very different track but the Yamaha is always fast there; this year a lot of things have changed but I hope we will still be quick! It's good to have a rest between races after two together and now we will arrive in Le Mans fully relaxed and ready to work on maximum power."

Extremely disappointed to retire in front of his home crowd last time out, team-mate Jorge Lorenzo is confident that a good result can be achieved after Spain as the MotoGP circus crosses the border. "Le Mans is the next stop and the first after my crash in Jerez," explained Lorenzo, who celebrated his 22nd birthday two weeks ago.

"I was very sad about what happened there but now it is another story, everything begins again and I must try to do things step-by-step. I've been on the podium in each category and will remember forever the incredible Yamaha podium of last year. It was amazing! I can see now Valentino, Colin (Edwards) and I enjoying the moment with all of the Yamaha people smiling! I hope we can repeat that moment this year - I will also remember that podium because it's the only one where I was on crutches!"

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