Lorenzo and Spies go for the MotoGP victory at Motegi

The MotoGP World Championship heads to Japan this weekend for the 15th round of the World Championship at the Twin Ring Motegi circuit. The race was postponed for the second consecutive year, this time due to the earthquake and tsunami that unfortunately hit the Japanese nation hard.

The reigning MotoGP World Champion, Jorge Lorenzo, has four races ahead to close the gap with championship leader Casey Stoner, specifically the 44-point advantage the Australian holds.

For the Mallorcan, a podium at Motegi is nothing new: he won there in 2009, and last season he missed out after an intense battle with his former teammate Valentino Rossi, finally finishing in fourth place.

For his part, Ben Spies arrives at Motegi for the second time as a MotoGP rider. Last season the Texan delivered a masterclass in overtaking, passing many riders after losing positions at the start of the race.

Additionally, as a special moment for Yamaha’s 50th anniversary, Jorge Lorenzo and Ben Spies will run their M1s in the classic red and white design.

Statements from Jorge Lorenzo:

Japan is Yamaha’s home race and for us it is a pleasure to race here. Motegi is a circuit where I have won before, and last year I had a great battle for the podium.

I would like to win here again; that is my goal for this weekend. After all the confusion with Fukushima, we are here, healthy and ready to put on a great show for Yamaha in this special year for them.

We are going to start from Friday and try to do everything really well.

Source | Yamaha Factory Racing