Stoner turns up pressure with Japan victory

Stoner started the race third on the grid but was leading the way by the end of the first lap, putting pole-sitter Andrea Dovizioso and second-placed Valentino Rossi in the shade.

Dovizioso and Rossi came in second and third respectively but could not live with Australian Stoner, who triumphed by 3.868secs.

Honda rider Dovizioso held firm behind Stoner, but Rossi was engaged in a thrilling battle for the final podium place with team-mate Jorge Lorenzo.

The overall leader eventually lost out to the reigning champion, his third finish outside the top three in a row.