Factory Ducati MotoGP rider Andrea Dovizioso said that starting from the third row is far from ideal, with the Italian needing to prevent Marc Marquez from gaining two more points than him, if he is to prevent the Spaniard from winning the World Championship in Buriram.

The Italian has been quiet all weekend, looking unlikely to replicate his stunning victory at the same venue 12 months ago. The World Championship standings mean that Dovizioso more than likely has to beat Marquez to delay the inevitable, something he acknowledges won’t be easy from seventh on the grid.

“The third row is not the best. But as usual I’ll have my chance to attack,” said Dovizioso.

“Actually, you never know what can happen because the race pace could be slower than in free practice. I’m relaxed and I want to get on the podium.

“There are a lot of riders with good pace. It could be a group race even if Marc is a bit faster, but not like Aragon, so it won’t be impossible to attack him.

“Vinales is in really good shape, like all the Yamaha’s and then Miller and I are close. Anything could happen, it could be a fast race if Marc, Vinales or Quartararo try to break away. If, on the other hand, nobody does, it could be slower. You can overtake here.”

The second half of the season has seen a range of different bikes look the biggest challenger to Marquez depending on the venue. Ducati haven’t appeared as strong in recent races, but Dovizioso insists it’s nothing to worry about.

“You can always improve. I’m one tenth from the best Ducati and I don’t see it as a drama.

“I lost something, but I could have gotten fourth of fifth. The most important thing, however, is to get a pace for the race.”