TEAM FIAT YAMAHA

The factory Yamaha team looks set to shine again in 2011, with a strong rider line-up and apparently a revised engine.

99. Jorge Lorenzo (SPAIN)

The current world champion will take some beating - Jorge has gone from strength to strength this season. Not only does he have talent in spade loads and a brilliant bike to ride, he has consistency, and that’s what wins championships.

Valencia test position & time: 2nd @ 1m 32.179s
My prediction for 2011: 2nd

11. Ben Spies (USA)

The 2009 World Superbike Champion (in his rookie year no less) had a good first season in MotoGP with the Tech 3 Yamaha team, finishing a respectable 6th. Now Ben has the faster factory M1 to ride, and it is highly likely that he will be pushing Lorenzo all the way in 2011. His 3rd place in the Valencia test bodes very well indeed.

Valencia test position & time: 3rd @ 1m 32.322s
My prediction for 2011: 4th