Lorenzo not too surprised by strong start

"The new riders, from 250cc, we are all good riders so it's okay that myself and Alex de Angelis have good results," he said. "The season is very long, but for the first race it was a very good result.

"For me, Jerez is a special circuit. I've always been fast here because it's a circuit with long, fast corners and for my riding style this is quite good.

"I am prepared and motivated, but the result of the race doesn't just depend on ourselves."

But Lorenzo doesn't expect to see the frantic action witnessed at the start of the Qatar race throughout the season.

"I think it's normal for the first race. Riders are very motivated and want a good result, but after a few races I think it will be more calm and riders will be more quiet."

Andrea Dovizioso, who finished runner-up to Lorenzo in last year's 250cc championship, was also pleased with his first MotoGP race after finishing in fourth, even beating seven-time champion Valentino Rossi.

"The first race was very good. The first five laps were very fast, unbelievable fighting. For me the last three laps with Valentino the fighting was very nice.

"Fourth position for the first race for us is very good. Now we want to improve and keep fighting for the podium."

He added: "All the people come here to see the race and the track is very nice for overtaking and fighting. I think the race here will be stronger and nicer than Qatar."