Brno MotoGP: Stoner says Rossi title hopes not a dream

Aussie Casey Stoner has refuted suggestions that Valentino Rossi’s 2007 MotoGP world title bid is now only a dream.

In a recent interview, Rossi’s Fiat Yamaha crew chief Jerry Burgess said this year’s title race was Stoner’s to lose after his commanding victory in last month’s American GP in Laguna Seca opened up a 44-point lead over the Italian.

“The reality is the title is just a dream for us now, “said Burgess, effectively declaring Stoner new world champion with seven races still remaining.

But Stoner is refusing to write off Rossi’s as a serious title contender, despite the 28-year-old being victorious in only three of the opening 11 races of the season.
Stoner denied Burgess had made the comments to try and exert some pressure on the factory Ducati rider when he told MCN: “I’m getting less and less pressure as the season goes on. I’m not ruling out Valentino. I’m concentrating on what I’m doing, not thinking about Valentino’s problems or any other rider. Even if we didn’t finish the season as champion we’d still be in a good position and be very strong, still maybe in the top three. But I still want to go out there and win some more races. This is still a big dream for us as well, “said the 21-year-old.