Rossi has won only one out of five MotoGPs race this year

The Yamaha racer has been beset by technical problems but says he will return to form over the next 12 races.

The Italian said: "I think that for the end of the championship everything remains possible.

"We know it's becoming a huge challenge but nothing is finished yet. We have to take it race by race."

Rossi's third campaign with Yamaha has been undermined by technical flaws with the new version of his bike.

It was difficult (on Sunday) because I could have reduced the gap with the top drivers Valentino Rossi

He dropped out of the Shanghai Grand Prix because of vibration problems.

A new chassis was fitted for the Le Mans race only for Rossi to be forced into retirement with engine problems when he was leading.

The 27-year-old is confident the technical problems have been solved and is looking forward to racing in front of his Italian home fans in Mugello on 4 June.

"It was difficult (on Sunday) because I could have reduced the gap with the top riders," Rossi said.

"But from a technical point of view, I'm happy because the bike's set-up is OK.

"It's good news for the next race where I think a podium finish is really possible."

Yamaha team director Davide Brivio is also confident the Italian race will be a turning point for the team.

"Mugello is very important," Brivio said.