Rossi returns to scene of 'Police' warning!

Round five of the 16-round 2003 championship sees the MotoGP circus head for the picturesque Mugello circuit set in the rolling hills between Bologna and Florence in Italy.

Last year nearly 100,000 passionate fans packed the hillsides surrounding the 5.245km track. They went home ecstatic when Italian Marco Melandri firstly won the 250cc race, then countryman Valentino Rossi took his first Mugello premier class win.

The 24-year-old Italian wore a specially painted patriotic helmet for the event and after crossing the line entertained the world wide audience when he was 'booked' for speeding, dangerous overtaking and riding without registration plates by 'Police' who may just have been members of the famous yellow army who follow Rossi's every move.

If he wins again on Sunday, another piece of post race entertainment is predicted from the local superstar.

"For me this is always a very big race weekend. The home Grand Prix is special and I think that Mugello is an amazing place," said Valentino. "It is very technical, fast and I Iove the way the track rises and falls. My favourite corner is Casa Nuova Savelli.

"Very many people come from Italy and I was very happy last year to make a good show. This year has been close and fun racing. We had a good battle in Le Mans with Alex (Barros) and Sete (Gibernau) for Mugello I would like to arrive in the front for Mugello!"

Rossi currently enjoys a 23 point advantage over rival Max Biaggi. Rossi's two wins and two runner up spots so far this year indicate that it hasn't all been plain sailing this season and the four-times world champion is facing stiff opposition from an ultra competitive field.

Rossi's Repsol Honda team mate, Nicky Hayden will be visiting Italy for the first time and will be hoping to better his creditable eighth place in the current rider standings.

The 21-year-old reigning AMA Superbike Champion has impressed many in the paddock with a mature approach to his maiden MotoGP season. The young American will have his customary four hours and 20 minutes track time available before lining up for the 23-lap race on Sunday.

"Preview for Mugello? Man, I've never even been to Italy before! I've heard some really good things about the place. The track sounds awesome and I've heard the crowd is massive and just so into its racing," stated Nicky. "Like every race this year I'm really looking forward to it. Learning a new track and just gettin' out there. I've got some family commin' over who will be stayin' around 'till Barcelona. That'll be fun as well."