Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) took the runner-up spot in the 2016 MotoGP™ World Championship by virtue of his second place in the Malaysian GP, but the Italian veteran had been hopeful for a victory after dueling for the lead – and keeping it until only a handful of laps to go. Then, with a front tyre suffering on the right hand side, the Italian made a mistake into Turn 1 and chasing Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) needed no second invitation to sweep past – and disappear. Settling for P2 and concentrating on making in to the line, Rossi nevertheless took yet another podium – and secured his place in the title fight above teammate Lorenzo.
Valentino Rossi (P2): “I think that was a good race, especially at the beginning. I felt good from the first lap. I was worried at the beginning before the start because there was a lot of water but after there was a normal amount and it was ok. I had a hard fight with Iannone and he always fought back – he was fast and it was a good battle, then when I finally overtook him I was optimistic for the win. But then, I made a mistake and I didn’t have the pace of Andrea. I had problems with the front tyre on the right and I didn’t want to crash. Second in the title is a good result, I’m quite happy – and when you have a chance to close these things you have to try.”