Italian superstar Rossi, 26, claimed four consecutive MotoGP titles from 2002-2005. In 2006 he came second in the championship, while last year he came a surprisingly out-of-touch third.

The flamboyant racer has won titles in every category, with three different manufacturers, and has a record 135 podium finishes.

He is joined at Yamaha this season by 2006 and 2007 250cc world champion Lorenzo. The Spaniard, 20, has dressed up as a gladiator and a boxer for victory lap stunts.