Rossi: Marquez and Lorenzo "a bit faster" in race trim
Japanese Grand Prix poleman Valentino Rossi reckons main rivals Marc Marquez and Jorge Lorenzo have a slight advantage over him on race pace.
Polesitter Valentino Rossi, Yamaha Factory Racing
Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images
Rossi was no higher than fourth in all four practice sessions that preceded the qualifying shootout, but saw off Marquez and Lorenzo for pole in the final seconds of Q2.
However, the Italian is somewhat cautious about his chances in the race, as he suggests the two Spaniards are marginally better over a race distance.
Talking about his main competition in the race, Rossi said: "Looking at the paper, also [Andrea] Dovizioso and [Cal] Crutchlow are quite strong, but it looks like me, Marquez and Lorenzo are the stronger.
"We are quite close but looks like Jorge, Marc are a little bit faster than me. But I'm close.
"We need to work well this night, try to fix the details and hope for tomorrow for a good weather, with more temperature."
"Worried" about physical condition
Having felt unwell throughout the weekend, Rossi admits he is concerned about his ability to keep pace in the 24-lap showdown.
"I am not at 100 percent. When I push a lot of laps, I don't feel at the maximum - I am quite sick, it's difficult to breathe.
"I'm worried for the race - the race here is always very long, very demanding because you have to brake hard, but I hope for tomorrow I can make another step and try to fight for the victory."
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