Three-time MotoGP world champion Jorge Lorenzo has hit out at his former team-mate Valentino Rossi, following the Italian’s performance in the Doha Grand Prix last weekend.
Lorenzo, reviewing the race in his ’99 Seconds’ YouTube video series, said Rossi “disappointed me as I suppose he has disappointed his fans”.
Nine-time champion Rossi recorded his worst qualifying result of his career in 21st before going on to finish 16th in the race, albeit only four places behind Petronas Yamaha SRT team-mate Franco Morbidelli.
Lorenzo didn’t hold back in his assessment, but is hopeful of a return to form for Rossi later in the year.
“Rossi has disappointed me, as I suppose he has disappointed his fans because a lot is always expected from Valentino,” Lorenzo said.
“To be 21st in practice, I think he said he had some practices that he did worse in his career, but it’s difficult to find a worse one.
“And then in the race, outside the points, I also think It’s difficult to find a race that Valentino finished, without a crash or an engine breakdown, outside of the points.
“It is the second time that he is far behind the other Yamaha. Let’s hope it’s a particular occasion. He never did well in Qatar and better circuits will surely come. I don’t know if it will be in Portimao, that will also be difficult for him. But surely, he will come back strong in Jerez.”
The opening two races mark the worst start to a premier class season for Rossi since his debut campaign back in 2000. He currently sits 14th in the standings with four points.
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