Dovizioso not disappointed with sixth

With the track drying throughout qualifying, the final laps became even more important than usual, and although Dovizioso jumped to the top as the session neared its end, he was pushed back five places as other drivers improved afterwards.

But the JiR Scot Honda rider had no complaints about his starting position.

"I am really happy with the result today," said Dovizioso. "The second row is good for us and the start will be all-important.

"I was good in wet conditions with Michelin rubber that has excellent performance and allows me to be fast. I was able to exploit the good tyres from qualifying, despite not really changing our set-up from wet to dry."

Dovizioso has had a highly impressive rookie season and currently holds fifth in the championship, but is yet to finish on the podium. He said he was simply targeting a top five finish in tomorrow's race, though.

"I have a good race rhythm of around 2:03.3 that should allow me to aspire to finish in the top five positions," he said.

"We are still looking at a top five finish in the race, even if a podium this season is still a wish!"

The Italian will join the factory Repsol Honda team next season, replacing Nicky Hayden alongside Dani Pedrosa.