MotoGP: Valentino Rossi takes victory at Australian GP after Marc Marquez crashes out
Last Updated: 19/10/14 3:02pm
Valentino Rossi claimed victory at the Australian Grand Prix after MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez crashed out whilst leading.
Rossi ended up winning by a ten-second margin over Yamaha team-mate Jorge Lorenzo, while Britain’s Bradley Smith took his first-ever podium finish in third.
Marquez, who had dominated all week and started from pole, looked set to land his 12th victory of the season having opened a four-second lead at the head of the field.
But the 21-year-old Spaniard – who sealed his second straight world title last week in Japan – crashed out with ten laps remaining, losing his front end and sliding off without sustaining injury.
That allowed Rossi – riding in his 250th race in the premier class - to come through and clinch his sixth race win at Phillip Island and his first since 2005.
The Italian had earlier got the better of a tussle for what appeared to be second place with Lorenzo, although Britain’s Cal Crutchlow subsequently passed the Spaniard on his Ducati.
However, the Briton was cruelly denied second place as he crashed out on the final lap, although that did allow compatriot Smith to get on the podium.
A delighted Rossi stated afterwards: "It is one of the best (wins). To come from third place, to win on the island after 10 years. I'm very happy."
