Casey Stoner led from start to finish to win the MotoGP season opener on Monday and complete a personal hat trick of victories in Qatar. :twobeers::clap2:
Printable View
Casey Stoner led from start to finish to win the MotoGP season opener on Monday and complete a personal hat trick of victories in Qatar. :twobeers::clap2:
Now that it's all over ...
He won the battle, but not the war
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/im...009/10/307.jpg
He was third, but tops ...
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/im...009/10/308.jpg
Melandri has done outstandingly well this season, particularly that he's been the sole Kawasaki rider on the grid. In his earlier days he was expected to be the 'next Rossi', but his lack of flair in favour of consistency approach quelled that. His rapid slide to the back of the pack was unfair, and thankfully he's managed to achieve some impressive results on the least likely bike. Needless to say, he's thoroughly deserved his promotion to the Gressini team next year.
All said, Rossi was the inevitable favourite to win the championship as he's clearly the most 'all round' rider with the most experience/skill. Stoner has had some very bad luck with team decisions and his personal health. It was obvious he was far from well early in the season and his results were awesome, so to have some time off and achieve what he has since is nothing short of remarkable.
Next season I feel is Stoner's year, 2nd Rossi and 3rd Dovizioso. :p
Don't forget there will be a spanner in the works in the shape of Ben Spies. Just won World Superbikes in his rookie year on the back of an AMA championship and takes a ride on a Yamaha in Moto Gp next season.
All good for the fans. Bring it on I say.