[Homem de Gelo]

About the race, what a surprise. Jerez was nothing like Qatar, Stoner had a disastrous race, Pedrosa dominated the race after Lorenzo dominated qualifying and practice sessions.

I did expect the race to be a different one to Qatar, but not so different.

Anyhow, even though there have only been two races, I already see 3 major contenders. Stoner, Rossi and Pedrosa. It seems as if the new Honda suits Pedrosa very well and he can only get stronger once he becomes perfectly healed form the hand injury and gathers more mileage on the bike. Rossi was always a factor, only fools doubted him, but what he did Sunday was great. To take 20 points on a day Michelin were the better tyre shows how he still has it and can still ride around problems to collect very important results and points. Stoner is in a very delicate situation. He is under pressure form 3 oponents and it is already evident that the Hondas and Yamahas are all very competitive and quick. Last year he only had to worry with Rossi, and Pedrosa, once in a while. This year the field is much stronger in both regards to pilots and bikes. I expect and hope he rises to the challenge and continues to win, but it's clear a 2007 like domination is not in the cards.

Despite very impressive form, I don't think Lorenzo will be a title contender. He has lots to learn as a rookie and the field will not sit tight waiting for him to catch up. I do expect him to win soon and be a huge factor in the championship. It seems as if his qualifying is already tip top and that is very important.

I also have not mentioned Hayden as a title contender because I'm not sure if can beat Pedrosa during a full season on a 800cc bike. I wouldn't worry if the 990cc were still around, but they are not. I do think he can fight for wins, especially at his favoured tracks. Hopefully he'll be at the sharp edge of the field the entire season.