Rossi wants fewer races, more track time

The eight time world champion commented in response to the possible changes that have been discussed in the Grand Prix Commission over recent weeks with a further meeting taking place today at Jerez.

Already in 2009 Friday morning's free practice has been axed while other sessions have been trimmed, with a total loss of one and a half hours of track time, and this weekend the total removal of Friday track time could be approved for 2010.

The calendar for this season had 18 races on it but has ironically dropped to 17 after the Hungarian track at Balaton failed to secure funding. In 1997 the calendar was 14 races and finished in September while this year the last race is on 8 November.

"From our (riders') point of view it is better to do less races, but with the same (practice) time (as before) to prepare for the race," said Rossi.

"However, it is more important for the television that we do more racing.

"Maybe this is a little bit worse because you have less time to prepare for the race. Many times you then arrive at the start and you are maybe without the perfect set-up, but with the single tyre rule now you have less work there, so that will make things less tricky to get to the start on Sunday."

With Friday track time looking to be completely cut in 2010, Rossi said he would be happy to do promotional activities instead, but would dearly miss the track time.

"Maybe we do autograph for the fans - this is important for the crowd who come for the weekend, but for me it is not a good idea to lose Friday because with just two hours on Saturday it will be nearly impossible to make a good setting for the race," he said.

"Also if we don't test on Friday when we arrive on Saturday (the track) will be dirty for the race with less grip, and this could be dangerous."