Rossi confident he will fight for win

The Italian had hoped to fight for victory in the Czech Grand Prix but he could not find the form in his bike to take the challenge to eventual victor, team-mate Jorge Lorenzo.

Work at Brno in the post-race test, however, has left him optimistic that things will be better at this weekend's Indianapolis Grand Prix.

"Indianapolis is a special place, an amazing track and as always it's fun to race in America," said Rossi. "I have great memories from 2009 when I won in the hurricane, even if it's not something I want to repeat.

"This year we arrive in a different situation to last year, fifth in the championship and not at 100% in physical condition, but I am feeling stronger all the time. Brno was disappointing but the test helped us to understand what went wrong and so we are hopeful that we can be back on good form in Indy."

Lorenzo, who is in a dominant position in the world championship, is eager to add another victory to his tally - but well aware that the title situation means he does not need to push too hard.

"This weekend will be the second race in this country in 2010 and I am looking forward to it because I would like to repeat the same result as I got in Laguna," he explained. "I just have good memories from America, last month in Laguna and last year in Indy.

"Last year was amazing, but this time I don't need to take too many risks. We can avoid it! Indy is a track that I like a lot and it has amazing history. The team and I are planning to continue our great season there this weekend."