Source: Supplied.

Multi-time world champion Jorge Lorenzo says he was really at ease with his Ducati Desmosedici GP machine during Sunday’s 20-lap affair at Sepang’s penultimate round of the MotoGP World Championship, resulting in a rewarding runner-up finish.

Lorenzo, who came off a disappointing 15th place finish the week prior at Phillip Island, led for a portion of the race before settling in behind teammate and eventual victor Andrea Dovizioso, making it a Ducati 1-2 finish in Malaysia.

“It was a great race that showed the progress we made throughout the weekend,” said Lorenzo. “I was really at ease on the bike, and even though I’d have preferred a dry race, when I saw it was raining I changed my mentality and tried to keep focussed, in order to avoid a mistake like Misano.

“I pushed hard but in the last few laps I was in a bit of crisis with the tyres, especially the front, and had a few scary moments in some corners. It wasn’t the right time to do anything stupid and when I almost crashed at turn 15 and Andrea passed me I realised that I wasn’t going to be able to fight for the win.

“I know exactly how important a world title is for Ducati, Dovizioso has had a fantastic season and deserves to fight for the championship right down to the last race. In this weekend Andrea has always been faster and I’m pleased for the team for this first 1-2 win of the season, because it means we’re working really well.”

The Spaniard is positioned seventh in the series standings as just one round remains in the prestigious championship, slated for 12 November at Valencia in Spain.