Rossi Admits Qatar Win Feels Like Gold

Valentino Rossi was obviously ecstatic with his first win of the season in Qatar, especially since the Italian claimed victory in what many could have called – prior to the start of the season – Casey Stoner's backyard. The Australian rider had won the last 3 races at Losail International Circuit until this year, and his pole position on Saturday was sign enough that he plans on extending his streak to 4 consecutive successes.

However, the Ducati rider failed to keep his bike on the Qatari track for more than 5 laps, which gave Rossi the first shot at making his first top-of-the-podium appearance at Losail since 2006. Although briefly challenged for the lead by Honda's Andrea Dovizioso midway through the race, Rossi had few problems holding on to 1st spot until the chequered flag.

“These 25 points are like gold for our championship, especially at this track. It's a great, great start, because I haven't won here since 2006. I think I deserve this victory. I worked very well with the team and we improved the bike step by step,” said Rossi after his first 25 points in the season.

An interesting view of Valentino Rossi was after he just crossed the finish line, as the Italian stalled his bike on the circuit in his slowing down lap. Apparently, that wasn't just one of his many “show-offs” for the fans, but related to a fuel issue.

“I think I spun the wheels too much during the race so I used more fuel, and I think I finished my fuel on the end lap. But it's like Mr Ferrari said, the perfect racecar is the car that breaks right after the line...” added the 7-time MotoGP champion (and 9-time FIM ace).

Next on the schedule is the Japanese Grand Prix, a territory where Yamaha has been particularly successful in recent years. The Japanese manufacturer squeezed 2 wins through Rossi (2008) and Lorenzo (2009) at Motegi, and will tackle the 2010 edition of the event from the top place in the standings.