Dovizioso not fazed by Rossi
Rookie Andrea Dovizioso has said he has put aside his idolisation of Italian compatriot Valentino Rossi and only wants to beat him.
The JiR Team Scot rider shocked many on his debut in the maiden MotoGP night race in Qatar by overtaking five-times world champion Rossi, who rides for the factory Yamaha team, for fourth position.
"Before this year it was a dream to fight with Valentino; but now I am in the same class and I want to beat him," Dovizioso said.
"It is very difficult because he has the most talent [of anyone], but I beat him in my first race and finished very near to him in Barcelona.
"It is very, very nice to fight with Valentino, but also with [reigning champion Casey] Stoner and [Dani] Pedrosa."
After 11 rounds Dovizioso is the highest-placed satellite rider in the world championship standings, holding fifth place with a best race finish of fourth - achieved on three occasions.
The former 125cc world champion and 250cc title contender has his sights set on securing a factory Honda ride for 2009.
Rossi currently leads the title chase by 25 points from reigning champion Stoner.