Dovizioso fearful of factory improvement after fourth place

The first Honda and Michelin rider to cross the line at the Red Bull U.S Grand Prix, Andrea Dovizioso concluded a creditable first half of his rookie season with fourth place at Laguna Seca. The JiR Team Scot satellite team rider held off factory man and twice winner of the American round Nicky Hayden for another top five finish.

`It was a really difficult race, with a gap of 36 seconds between us and the leaders. When I realised that Hayden was running slower, I wanted to pass him, but Laguna is difficult to pass on and I spent four laps trying. Then I pushed to the maximum to pass Hayden and De Puniet, who are strong `brakers´ and who were difficult to pass,´ reviewed Dovizioso, who admitted feeling slightly apprehensive about what the second half of the season has in store for him.

`The problem is that we are a satellite team; the factory team have improved their package during the season and we couldn´t. So for that reason I am a little bit worried about the second part, when the gap will be bigger. We will have to work hard with Michelin, because they can help us,´ he explained, before reiterating his target for the end of the year.

`We are aiming for fifth or even fourth in the World Championship. I am happy to be there at the moment.´

Dovizioso has finished in the top five at the last five MotoGP races.