TOKYO, 18 September 2004 — MotoGP championship leader Valentino Rossi was second quickest behind surprise pace-setter John Hopkins in the first qualifying session for the Japanese Grand Prix yesterday.
American Suzuki rider Hopkins grabbed provisional pole for the first time in his career with a blistering lap of one minute 47.230 seconds at the Motegi circuit, 0.045 ahead of world champion Rossi on a Yamaha.
“I was unable to get provisional pole, Hopkins rode really well, and he is up front,” said Rossi.
“I made one really good lap. Honda and Suzuki seem very competitive here but so are we.”
Spain’s Sete Gibernau, second in the title race 29 points behind Italian Rossi, could only manage 10th fastest in what was a disappointing session for Honda on their home circuit.
Japan’s Makoto Tamada confirmed his fine form by finishing third fastest, the best of the seven Honda riders in the first session, with Honda’s Max Biaggi and Ducati’s Loris Capirossi, both Italians, fourth and fifth fastest.
Californian Hopkins was joined among the quickest riders by compatriot and teammate Kenny Roberts, world champion in 2000, who was sixth fastest.
“I like this track, the hard braking really suits my style,” said 21-year-old Hopkins. “The bike has made a big step forward...I’m having more fun riding than I have ever had.”
The second qualifying session takes place today with the races tomorrow.
