MotoGP – Wayne Gardner: “I'm not surprised by Rossi's debut on the Ducati”

Wayne Gardner, world champion of the 500cc class in 1987, commented on Valentino Rossi's debut with Ducati in the post-GP tests in Valencia on his blog. The Australian was not "overly surprised" by the debut of the Pesaro rider on the Borgo Panigale bike, a debut which saw Rossi finish the two days with the 15th fastest time. Here are his words.

“The fact that Hayden managed to finish sixth is an indication that when it comes down to it, Rossi will be back at the top of the standings. We really have to wait for the first tests of 2011 (scheduled for early February in Sepang) to make an accurate assessment of his chances for next season. In fact, by that date the bike will have been modified according to his instructions and the shoulder injury will no longer be a problem."

However, what surprised Gardner (in a positive way) was the debut of compatriot Casey Stoner on the Honda. Here are his words in this regard.

“Stoner's performance in Valencia (debut on Honda) is bad news for Pedrosa and Dovizioso, who will have already understood that their role will be reduced to that of simple support. I will be surprised if one of them comes close to Casey next year.”