Sete Gibernau (Team Movistar Honda RC211V) is desperate to make something of what has been a poor season for the Spanish star. He has yet to win in 2005 and will be hoping this new track can give him a chance to shine. Meanwhile, his team mate Melandri had success in this season that was not expected by many of us. His great performance in new team and on new machine resulted in third position in championship, where Melandri has same number of points as second-placed Nicky Hayden. Turkey also may be place for Melandri to take his maiden MotoGP victory. Read thoughts of Telefonica Movistar Honda riders.

Sete Gibernau:
Istanbul Park is a completely new track for all of us. I have seen the circuit and the layout of the track on TV but we can only have a clear idea on the first day of testing. We have no data, and this is a good chance to use that positively.

Marco Melandri:
I’m very happy to race in Turkey, a completely new track. It was the same in China – Shanghai was a new track for all the riders, I liked it and had a good race. The Grand Prix of Turkey is a very important race. I have the same points as Nicky Hayden and at the beginning of the season second place in the World Championship was just a dream – now it is my target. It would be the best way to thank Fausto Gresini, Honda and HRC who’ve all believed in me this season.

Istanbul circuit details