Rossi eyes Donington

Donington Park has held the British MotoGP round since 1987, but the event will switch back to Silverstone from 2010, when Donington is due to take over the F1 Grand Prix.

Rossi is the most successful rider ever at Donington, holding the record for both wins in all classes and most premier-class wins.

The reigning six time MotoGP world champion took his first ever 500cc win at Donington in 2000. The track also holds a special affinity for the Fiat Yamaha rider since he lived in London for several years and was adopted as an honorary Brit.

"Last year I had a good race at Donington to finish second, but this year I really want to win!" declared Rossi, 14 points ahead of team-mate Jorge Lorenzo heading into the final race before the MotoGP summer break.

"I've always said that Donington is one of my favourite tracks in the world - it's fast and flowing but also technical - and also the UK is a very special place for me because for a long time it was my home," he confirmed.

"This is the last year we are going to race there which I am really sad about, but that makes me even more determined to try to win there, for me and for the fans who have always treated me like one of their own."

The Italian has seven Donington wins in total, but has been without a victory since 2005, something he is determined to rectify this weekend as he arrives on top form following his fourth win of the season, by just 0.099sec over title rival Lorenzo, last Sunday in Germany.

"I haven't won there since 2005, which is too long and I would like to say 'goodbye' to the track in the best way," said Rossi. "Last year we couldn't take the fight to Stoner but this year our bike is extremely competitive and we're arriving leading in the championship so we're in a very strong position.

"We don't have much time to rest after Sachsenring but we have a good break after this race to look forward. Let's hope we can extend our lead even more before then," he added.

"So, our last trip to Donington!" stated team manager Davide Brivio. "Valentino loves the track but he's had some misfortune in the past few years so we will be looking to rectify that this weekend and leave it in the best possible way.

"We're in very good shape after our latest win and everyone is looking forward to another great battle. Let's hope we can show the British fans another brilliant MotoGP display! The championship remains very close but we're enjoying the competition and will keep trying the maximum to win."