British MotoGP: Shoulder close to 100 per cent, says Valentino Rossi

Relieved Valentino Rossi expects his right shoulder to be close to 100 per cent strength for this weekend’s British MotoGP race at the Silverstone circuit.

The 32-year-old has been troubled by a shoulder problem ever since he seriously damaged tendons and ligaments in a motocross training accident 14 months ago.

The recovery from surgery in November was a slow and painful process but the nine-times world champion finally believes he is nearing full fitness as he prepares for his first competitive appearance at the super fast Silverstone track.

Rossi missed last year’s race after he broke his right leg in a practice crash at Mugello but he has ridden the track having used a standard production Ducati 1198 to learn the circuit last month.

Last weekend’s Catalunya race saw Rossi cope without painkillers for the first time in over a year and he said: “The shoulder is not quite at 100 per cent but I am so happy. It was the first time without any painkillers and this was an important test. I have some pain in the hard braking but it doesn’t disturb my power. I need to improve the speed that I move the shoulder under the fairing. If you look on TV I need a bit more time than the other guys to find the right position but I am close to the maximum. Now the gap is more the bike than me, though I can still improve my riding style with this bike.”

For a full 24-page guide to the British Grand see today’s issue of MCN. And for the latest ticket information check out www.silverstone.co.uk