The Japanese Grand Prix proved to be one of the most demanding of the season for Andrea Dovizioso. On a track that requires hard braking and acceleration, the JiR Team Scot rider did his best on the brakes to make up time on his opponents. After a slow start, Andrea recovered several positions until he reached the trio fighting for sixth position: Loris Capirossi, Colin Edwards and Shinya Nakano. The fight ended with ninth position going to the rider from Forlì. The championship position remains unchanged, with Andrea in fifth place overall.
The weekend of the Grand Prix of Japan, began in the best way for Andrea Dovizioso who, with despite uncertain grip on the track ended the first day of free practice in fourth position. The morning session was held with the track wet, and JiR Team Scot were able to assess options for rain tyres for the race, should the weather on Sunday be wet. In the afternoon session with dry weather tyres, but on a damp track Andrea Dovizioso improved his performance.