Hmmm, if I were Bradley I'd be feeling out other options, just in case. Puig has a great reputation for helping young riders, but even he can't resolve everyone's future.

And what of the wild rumour that Pedrosa hasn't yet re-signed for Repsol Honda in 2008 because he is unhappy with the new RC212V, and might make a last-minute move to Ducati?

Puig demolishes that one totally ("There are a lot of idiots in this paddock," are his actual words). "Our priority has always been to concentrate on getting the bike and the package right," he said. "Signing the contract has taken second place."

Expect Pedrosa to confirm his link with Honda shortly.


Sunday am - Four Factors that Could Determine Estoril

Some points to consider as you settle down to watch today's race:

Although Valentino Rossi says that his new pneumatic-valve engine is faster, his Fiat Yamaha is still 4.15mph (6.6kph) slower than Casey Stoner's Marlboro Ducati on Estoril's long front straight. Stoner has hit 194.75mph (313.6kph), to Rossi's 190.58mph (306.9kph).

Exit speed from the final right-hand turn onto the straight will be one of the key factors today. The crew chief that gets the sweet setup there will give his rider a big advantage in the drag-race to the finish line.

Laps times in this morning's 20-minute warm-up session may be more significant than usual, as the entire race programme is running an hour later today. Air and track temperatures in the warm-up may therefore be closer to those for the race than is normal at a grand prix.

Tyre endurance is likely to be a significant factor in the race, with daytime temperatures at Estoril forecast to be 24C. So although Nicky Hayden and Valentino Rossi sandwich Stoner on the front row, will their Michelins match his Bridgestones in the closing laps?