Factory Yamaha's Valentino Rossi believes he can fight for podiums over the course of the 2013 MotoGP season as Yamaha have given him a bike which can achieve it but maybe not this weekend in the desert.
The Doctor believes that top three spots can be got but it could be tough at Losail as he admits the circuit isn't easy for him.
"I’m very happy with the work done in Jerez and over the winter. I was fast and everything worked fine and we have a competitive bike to fight for the podium," said Rossi.
"I believe that in Qatar will not be so easy; it is a track that is a little difficult for me, but I think I can defend myself and get a good result. I would like to get on the podium: that's my goal.
"After the testing I know I can be competitive in some tracks but also that I will have some problems in other tracks. The most important thing is that now I have a good feeling when I ride my M1 and this will help me at all tracks, including Qatar.
"Every year you get a little bit nervous at the beginning of the season. It’s normal to feel like that; it’s crucial to get some good points and not to make mistakes. I can’t wait to start this 2013 season."