Bridgestone: Stoner deserves the credit

Stoner has won 10 of the 17 races held so far this season, and wrapped up his first championship title with three rounds to spare.

But the Australian has been dogged by suggestions that the Ducati's straightline speed advantage and Bridgestone's superiority over Michelin this year were the main factors in his success.

Yamada said that while Bridgestone had clearly taken a step forward on the way to its first MotoGP title, if anything its tyres were flattered by Stoner's speed, rather than the other way around.

"The tyres, bike and rider must all work in unison to win races," said Yamada.

"In the past, our tyres have been competitive at some tracks, but we have lacked the consistency during the season.

"I think that the improved performance of our tyres at most circuits this season has played an important part, but it has been the overall package that has won the championship, above all the supreme riding skills of Casey Stoner.

"Casey has won ten races from 17 this year and we cannot say that is because of just bike or just tyres, but it is more simply because he is the rider to beat this season."

Stoner's results on Bridgestones have encouraged his main rivals to attempt to switch to the Japanese tyres. Dani Pedrosa requested a supply of Bridgestone for his Honda, but looks set to remain on Michelins, while Valentino Rossi is believed to be on the verge of sealing a deal to run Bridgestones in 2008.