Australian MotoGP rookie Casey Stoner battled leg cramps and energy-sapping heat to ride the LCR Honda into a brave fifth place in today's Qatar Grand Prix. Stoner rode an impressive race, leading for nine laps after a brilliant start from pole position, and the 20 year-old Australian was the best-placed rookie in the race won by Valentino Rossi. As his physical condition and rear grip faded over the final laps Stoner concentrated on his pre-race goal of a top five finish. Stoner was weakened by a flu virus in the lead-up to the Qatar GP and required further medical treatment the night before the race. Stoner's pre-race preparations were further complicated by 48 hours of flight delays but he recovered quickly to claim his first-ever MotoGP pole position and lead the race for nine laps.

After two races Stoner is in sixth position in the world championship with 21 points, level with Toni Elias.

"I really couldn't have asked for much more this weekend -- Casey qualifying on pole, the fastest in the morning warm-up and then leading the race for nine laps. To finish fifth considering Casey's physical condition was a great effort by him, especially in just his second race. The team, Honda and Michelin have worked very well this week, my thanks to all of them."

"The start was great and I felt really comfortable out in front and just concentrated on doing my own thing but as the fuel load got lighter I wasn't able to up the pace as I lost some rear grip. My physical condition was also a factor today and I wasn't feeling 100%, I thought I could have got a better result today. I missed a lot of pre-season training and then I had the flu and after ten laps my left leg began to cramp up. When Valentino came past for the lead I wasn't surprised, it was only a matter of time, and over the second half of the race I had a good battle with Loris and Gibernau."