Italy's seven-time world champion Valentino Rossi celebrated his 85th career win but first for six races on Sunday as he won the Spanish MotoGP.
The flamboyant 28-year-old Yamaha rider spoilt the hopes of the 138,000 home fans as he beat home Spaniard Dani Pedrosa, riding a Honda, while the US' Colin Edwards was third, also on a Yamaha.
Rossi, who last won in Malaysia in September, dominated the race leading from start to finish as Pedrosa failed to take advantage of his pole position.
PHOTO: AP
Rossi was almost overcome with joy at breaking his drought.
"This victory is very moving because the last time I won was in September and the taste of victory is unforgettable," he said. "This is an important win because the next two races aren't great for our team."
Pedrosa for his part was not too disappointed.
"Yes of course there is a slight sense of disappointment for the fans," Pedrosa said.
"However to be on the podium for the second time this season is great and wonderful for the team. It wasn't an easy race, it will be a difficult championship and there is a lot of hard work ahead of us," he said.
Australia's Casey Stoner, who won the opener in Qatar, never got into the mix and finished fifth.
Earlier the home fans did have something to celebrate as Spain's reigning champion Jorge Lorenzo won his second successive 250cc race this season.
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