British MotoGP: Valentino Rossi expects tough title chase

Valentino Rossi reckons his bid to win a ninth world title in 2009 will be one of the toughest of his illustrious career.

The Fiat Yamaha rider starts tomorrow’s 30-lap British GP with a slender 14-point lead over Spanish team-mate Jorge Lorenzo.

Rossi has been in sparkling form recently, the 30-year-old Italian winning three out of the last four races.
But despite his brilliant form that has seen him take 95 of the last 100 points up for grabs in MotoGP, the Italian has so far failed to put a big gap between himself and Lorenzo in the title chase.

The Italian told MCN: “This is a strange feeling to be in such good form but not having a bigger lead. It means it will be very tough because it is a great season and I can fight with some problems but also win when everything is okay. But looking at the points I must remain like this because it will be very difficult right until the end of the season.  I have a great rival, and also (Casey) Stoner and Dani (Pedrosa) are fast and I think Dani when he okay will be constantly fighting for the podium and sometimes for the victory. But especially with Jorge it is very difficult.”

• Do you think you know what will happen in MotoGP? Have a free £25 bet with Betfair