Bridgestone boss hails Stoner performance

Bridgestone boss Hiroshi Yamada has spoken of his admiration for Aussie Casey Stoner after the factory Ducati rider claimed a hat-trick of victories in the first four races of 2007.

Stoner has made an incredible impact riding the Bridgestone-shod Ducati GP7 after his switch from a Honda on Michelin tyres.

And Yamaha said he was hugely impressed with the riding talent of Stoner and his form on Bridgestone rubber, with the Japanese tyre manufacturer enjoying its best ever run of results since it first entered the premier class in 2002.

Yamada told MCN: “I am very impressed with him. Yes sure, he was already fast last year, but he crashed too much and sometimes maybe he lost his confidence.

“Mainly he crashed many times from the front. I don’t know if this is because of the bike, setting or tyres. Of course, once the rider has lost confidence in the front then they cannot make a good lap time.

He added: “I believe our front tyre is suitable for his riding style and also the bike character is good for him. He is doing a great job.”