Rossi impressed by Stoner's race

Stoner could have won the title today if he had managed to score over 15 points more than Rossi, but instead he had to settle for the last place on the podium on a day when his Bridgestones tyres weren't as performing as the Rossi's Michelins.

"Stoner today had a great race," Rossi told Italia1 television.

"Maybe he has impressed even more than he does when he runs away all by himself with a big advantage, because today we were running quicker than him and he managed to stay with us.

"Naturally he always rides at the maximum, but then when he runs into the distance he has a very big advantage. To stay with us today, without making any mistake, has made him even better in my eyes."

Rossi was thankful for his package and the work done by the team.

"I thank my bike," quipped Rossi. "The tyres today went well, even better than the Bridgestones. Together with all the boys we've done an incredible job on everything because we wanted to finish in front, so this is nice."