大象传媒

Matt Roberts presents live coverage from Qatar as the 2009 MotoGP season begins.

Casey Stoner began the defence of his title with a win at the Losail track last year, but it was his rival Valentino Rossi who enjoyed the last laugh, clinching his sixth world premier class title at the end of the season.

Qatar is one of the most unpredictable races on the MotoGP circuit due to its unique track, which is often strewn with sand blowing in from across the desert, and history was made last year when the event became the first in the sport's history to be held under floodlights.

Britain's James Toseland will be among those under the spotlight this season - his sixth place in Qatar last year promised much for the season ahead, but it proved to be his best result.

Race commentary from Charlie Cox and Steve Parrish.