Dovizioso wants more than number four

Carrying the number four as his racing number will not change overnight for Andrea Dovizioso, but the talented Italian rider has seen enough of the number already this season and wants to end his recent series of fourth place finishes - as he embarks on MotoGP’s American adventure this weekend.

Factory Honda star Dovizioso was fourth at Laguna Seca last year on his US debut and has finished in that position on seven occasions since joining the premier class at the beginning of 2008.

Currently fourth in the World Championship and with three successive fourth place finishes to his name before Assen, at Le Mans, Mugello and Catalunya, Dovizioso was hunting down a first podium of the year in The Netherlands before he crashed out (when running in fourth place) and suffered the second DNF of his 800cc career.

With just one rostrum appearance achieved thus far in MotoGP, Dovizioso knows that now is the time to step things up a notch. Previewing the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix he stated:

“I really look forward to the race in Laguna Seca. The track itself and the whole atmosphere makes coming to Laguna a fascinating experience. Last year was the first time that I had raced in the United States and I was impressed by this track. Some parts are quite dangerous and very different from the European standard of racetracks we are used to, but the whole atmosphere is incredible and I like it a lot. I’m confident that we can have a good race here.”

He added, “Last year I had a good battle and finished fourth, which I was pleased with. I feel as though I’ve come fourth enough times this year though, however, so I hope to make the step up. At each race we’re getting closer to the leading riders but we’re still not close enough yet. So we have to work hard to get the speed and consistency we need.”