British MotoGP: Rossi in a class of his own

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Valentino Rossi crosses the line to the repturous applause of all of the teams - his ride was, as he was perhaps signifying with his air violin, a virtuouso performance.

A fantastic compression shot of the field heading into the first corner, all skating on a thin film of water and all attempting to apply 200+ horsepower ever so gently

In the early stages of the race Sete Gibernau got away from the field but a crash put paid to his chances yet again. Gibernau's luck turned in Qatar last year and shows no sign of returning despite his obvious endeavour and talent. Time for the witchdocto

Alex barros took a turn in the lead during his 250th GP - his stretch at the front of the GP field has now lasted 17 years and had luck gone his way, he might easily have added another victory.

John Hopkins too had a shot at the lead but misting problems with his helmet caused him great difficulty and the gang of four finally got past and Hopkins crashed.

Kenny Roberts Junior leads while Valentino has a foot slip off the footpeg under brakes.

Study this photo closely and wonder, as we do, how the leading four stayed upright given the conditions.

Barros, Rossi, Roberts, Hopkins in line astern with Colin Edwards hanging close by

Alex Hoffman returned his best result to date - it is unlikely to retain him his spot on the Kawasaki team for 2006

Marco melandri and Troy bayliss were at the front of the field in the early laps, until melandri crashed and Bayliss crashed trying to avoid running over the fallen Melandri. Bayliss may rejoin Ducati in 2006

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