Jorge Lorenzo's nightmare run continues, with the triple MotoGP champion withdrawing from the Japanese Grand Prix and in serious doubt for next weekend's Australian round.
Mixed weather conditions at Motegi on Friday meant it was difficult for Valentino Rossi to assess Yamaha's level of competitiveness at the Japanese track.
MotoGP Legend Freddie Spencer is to assume part of the role of Mike Webb by becoming Chairman of the FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel. Webb is currently both Race Director and Chairman of the panel.
Jorge Lorenzo has suffered a fresh fitness blow after a scan on the eve of this weekend's Japanese MotoGP revealed what looks like a 'complete' fracture to his left wrist.
Valentino Rossi is 'quite optimistic' of a strong performance in Japan this weekend, when the cause of Yamaha's strong showing in Thailand should become clearer.
After being 'back where we should be' at Buriram, Maverick Vinales is eager to find out if it was the revised rear tyres or new set-up configuration that made the difference.
Andrea Dovizioso stands between Marc Marquez and a MotoGP title victory at Motegi this weekend. The Ducati rider is a distant 77-points behind Marquez, but will at least delay the Honda rider's world championship celebrations if he beats the Spaniard in Japan.
Ahead of this weekend's Japanese MotoGP, Franco Morbidelli, Takaaki Nakagami and Jorge Martin tried their hand at some Sumo wrestling in Tokyo… with predictably amusing results!