Rossi’s victory in a wet British Grand Prix last Sunday reopened a 12-point championship advantage after Lorenzo had drawn level – and in front on countback – with victory in the Czech Republic a fortnight earlier.

Lorenzo believes having twice come from behind to catch Rossi during the year proves he can still overhaul his team-mate over the remaining six rounds.

“We’ve recovered 29 points [during the season],” Lorenzo said.

“Normally our speed is very good, probably better than Vale generally.

“There are still six races to go and we are going to try to recover the points like we’ve done two times this year already.

“There is only one rival, one rider who I must keep focus on: Valentino.

“I believe in dry conditions I have a little bit more speed and I will work to keep it like that in the next races.

“And because of this I have more possibilities to finish in front of him in the next races and recover more points in the future.”

Rossi agreed that a 12-point cushion over Lorenzo was little comfort.

“It’s not important, zero. Jorge is strong,” he said.

“It’s an important 12 points, but not a lot of psychological advantage, unfortunately.

“It’s important to remain on top, because I was first from the first race.

“Jorge got within one point after Barcelona, but then he went down.

“He arrived equal after Brno, but he’s never been one point in front.

“To reopen the gap is fantastic because on paper [Silverstone] was a track where Jorge could have beaten me.”