MotoGP Blog

Next week sees Jerez 2008, and what our Spanish and Italian readers will view as the real start to the season. The circuit is a twisty affair, with no long straights for power to rule. Last year this was evident in that the domination of Stoner at Qatar was reversed, the Aussie being bumped down the order over the first few laps to a lowly 9th, struggling with aggressive overtakes and cold Bridgestones which seemed to spin up rather than provide traction. Up at the front it was a procession, with Rossi hitting the front half way through lap 1 and never budging, despite Pedrosa being less than a couple of bike lengths behind him for most of the race.

Last year’s race was before the tyre debacle broke out, and was then viewed as a Rossi return to form. Michelin had the top 4 grid slots, and owned the podium. In reality the Ducati struggled to use its power advantage and was not handling around the twisting track until the final 10 laps - a Bridgestone issue perhaps? Talk after the race was dominated by fears over processional racing, there being too much electronic control of the bikes and a lack of sliding, stepping out and spinning up in general.

What can we expect this year? We are unlikely to see a repeat of the Rossi celebrations of 2007 (bowling pins anyone?). Perhaps a better performance from Ducati/Bridgestone/Stoner if they have sorted out the interface between Jerez tarmac and their rubber. It could be another dire race for the other Ducatis however. Pedrosa and Lorenzo challenging with Stoner for the win is the safest bet. Rossi may suffer a little with his tyre choice on race day given the problems Bridgestone had last year, and be relegated to a 4th or 5th position, just behind Dovizioso but ahead of Hayden. Kawasaki and Suzuki will likely continue to struggle. Tech-3 riders will again qualify well, but their thirsty engines will leave them lagging in the race.

On the strength of Qatar, we’re unlikely to see another procession this year.