Fiat Yamaha's Valentino Rossi has equalled Italian legend Giacomo Agostini's record of MOTOGP podium finishes, taking his 159th rostrum and 101st win at the Sachsenring.

The Doctor finished less than a tenth of a second ahead of team-mate Jorge Lorenzo who put an unexpected pass on the Italian towards the end of the 30-lap encounter.

“I think this was a great race for everyone because there were all four leading riders of the championship, fighting very closely and all in strong form," said Rossi.

"We knew that they would all be tough to beat today so I am very pleased about this win, I rode very well and my team worked brilliantly all weekend to find the right setting. I had a very good start today, a great battle with Stoner early on and then after half race distance I was a little faster and really able to push at the maximum, which was great fun.

"At the end it came down to another incredible battle with Lorenzo and I really had to be on top form, especially because he passed me when I wasn’t expecting it. Luckily I was able to take him back and then I rode a perfect final lap with no mistakes.

"Everything worked well today, my M1 and my Bridgestone tyres, so thanks and well done to everyone. This is my fourth win of the year and I really think that our Yamaha is a fantastic bike this season. I think races like this are great for the sport. Now we have a small advantage in the championship and we’re going straight to Donington, one of my favourite tracks where I really hope I can win after a few bad years without a victory.”