Rossi has 'score to settle'

2007-05-18 08:28

Le Mans - Seven-time world champion Valentino Rossi is aiming for a record-breaking third win in the French MotoGP at the Le Mans circuit on Sunday, a year after engine trouble denied him victory.

The Italian, currently second in the world championship standings, needs a win to stay within touching distance of Australian sensation Casey Stoner, who leads by 15 points.

"I definitely have a score to settle at Le Mans after what happened last year," the charismatic 28-year-old said.

"I'm very determined and looking forward to this next race. Our Yamaha has always done well there and until the problem of last year it was really flying."

Rossi and his team will be bolstered by a strong performance at the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai earlier this month, in which the Italian bounced back from a late mistake only to be pipped after a fierce head-to-head with Stoner.

"China was encouraging for us because our bike worked perfectly in qualifying and then also in the race," said the Italian affectionately known as 'The Doctor'.

A rostrum finish for Rossi on Sunday would be the perfect tonic for last year's failure, as it would ensure his inclusion into the all-time MotoGP podium chart.

Stoner has had a fantastic start to the season, winning three out of four races, with his performances helping Ducati stay in pole position for the constructors' title. But there is still a long way to go.

"So far, this season is pretty much a dream come true. Now we've got to keep our heads down, make sure we don't get too confident," he said.

However, the 21-year-old Australian admitted the French circuit was not his one of his favourites, saying: "I just don't get it right in the race, maybe this year we can change that."

"Le Mans is definitely for the brave," he added.

Meanwhile reigning world champion Nicky Hayden is out to kick-start what has so far been a disappointing season.

The American is languishing in eighth equal place on just 30 points and he badly needs a win if he is to retain his title.

"We've still got some distance to go to get the bike working for me," he admitted.

French hopes were hit with the news that Oliver Jacque will not make a home appearance due to an arm injury.

- AFP