It is also 'his way of warning that in 2008, he is only one step away and there is only one acceptable result: the one which will allow him to bear No. 1'.

Pedrosa, a former 125 and double 250cc world champion, first raced with the #26 during his debut 2001 grand prix season, kept it again for 2002, but then - having won three races that year - switch to the #3 for 2003.

The move to 250cc in 2004 saw Pedrosa back on the #26, which he then swapped for the #1 plate - as the reigning world champion - for 2005.

Pedrosa appeared with the #26 for his first two seasons in MotoGP, despite also taking two wins during his debut premier-class season.

Dani is currently recovering from a fractured hand, but aims to return to action at the official Jerez test from February 16-18.