Capirossi encouraged by race pace

The Ducati rider has had a difficult season and struggled to match new teammate Casey Stoner, but he was the fastest rider on the track in drying conditions at Donington Park.

Having qualified only 13th, Capirossi came through the field to fifth and was closing on Valentino Rossi and Chris Vermeuelen's battle for third when he fell at Redgate five laps from the end.

"I'm really sad about the crash because I was feeling really good and very confident," said Capirossi.

"I didn't get a perfect start but I pushed very hard and caught a lot of people until I got into fifth place.

"My rhythm was really good and I was feeling pretty confident, so when I saw Valentino and Chris ahead I thought I could also catch them because I was lapping a second a lap faster. Unfortunately I lost the front at turn one and my race ended there.

"The tyres were working brilliantly, even though we were using a softer type. It's a shame but I'm happy with my pace and because my feeling on the bike continues to improve.

"If we can keep moving forward like this at Assen I think we can do well."

Team boss Livio Suppo shared Capirossi's optimism.

I'm really sorry for Loris because he was also going so well," said Suppo.

"But he is okay after his fall and the fact that he obviously found a good feeling for the bike is a very positive point."