Nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi is staring down the barrel of his 200th Grand Prix podium at this weekend’s Jerez MotoGP round after notching up his 199th in Argentina.

Rossi is a big fan of the Spanish circuit and the high corner speed should suit his YZR-M1, so the magic 200 podiums could be just a formality in Andalucia.

The Doctor’s record at Jerez is first class with six premier class wins at this circuit in 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2009, two second places in 2008 and 2014, and a third place in 2010.

“I’m very happy to come back to Europe. These first three races have been very positive, although some of these circuits are not my favourites nor of the Yamaha! Yet my YZR-M1 has behaved very well and we rode nice races,” said Rossi.

“To go to Jerez, after the victory in Argentina and holding first place in the championship, is certainly very positive. However the most important thing is that we're doing a great job with the guys of the team. We must continue to work well together. The championship is still very long! I feel good and returning to Europe is nice.

“I really like the Jerez GP. The track is beautiful and also the atmosphere is fantastic. It also has very fast turns and I like that a lot. I did good races at this circuit in the past and I'll try to have a good race also this year.”