Suppo realistic about title prospects

With Ducati's current power advantage making Stoner difficult to beat on faster circuits, the twisty Le Mans Bugatti track was regarded as a crucial venue for Rossi and Yamaha to regain ground.

But Rossi struggled for speed in the dry and then had tyre issues in the wet race. The Italian could only finish sixth, while Stoner took third place.

The forthcoming Mugello and Catalunya races are likely to play to Ducati's strengths, potentially putting Stoner in an even stronger position in the championship, but Suppo said the team were taking nothing for granted - especially given Rossi's past achievements.

"At this point a 21-point lead is something not to think about yet," he told Italia1 television.

"Valentino is super strong, he won five championships in a row and last year didn't win it because he was truly unlucky."

Although he played down Stoner's title prospects, Suppo praised the Australian's approach to his current position.

"Casey at the moment is demonstrating he can withstand the pressure," Suppo said.

"He's facing each race calmly. The season is still very long, so let's enjoy this. Casey's in amazing shape at the moment. The bike is doing very well, the tyres too, but he's certainly doing his bit."