The MotoGP paddock heads to Barcelona this week for the Grand Prix of Catalunya at the Montmeló circuit in Spain.

Round five of the 2011 Championship, the second on Spanish soil this season, sees 2010 World Champion Jorge Lorenzo ready and prepared to defend his Championship lead in front of his home Catalan crowd.

Lorenzo is excited to return to Catalunya, his last visit to the circuit proved a victorious one in 2010 with a decisive victory taken from pole.

“We are now going straight to Montmeló and we don’t even need to take a plane. It is amazing!” commented Lorenzo.

“I am so happy to be here, the closest track to my home. I remember last year’s victory and also those in my 250cc days.”

After injuring his finger at Le Mans, Lorenzo knows it will be a tough race and isn’t underestimating his competition.

“This is a fast track with high speed and slow corners. It is the second race in Spain and I would like to be as fit as in Jerez,” Lorenzo added.

“Our aim in this GP will be the podium,”

The Mallorcan born rider saw his points tally extended to 78 two weeks ago during an incident packed round four in France, he now leads closest rival Casey Stoner by 12 points coming into Catalunya.