Rossi spent the closing stages of the Losail race locked in a thrilling duel with Moto2 champion Marquez, who was making his first MotoGP appearance and set the fastest lap of the race.
Marquez's raw speed and fighting style has prompted comparisons with Rossi during his debut 2000 season. The seven time MotoGP champion spotted one difference between them.
"Marc did the fastest lap in his first race, like I did. But I crashed, so he is better than me!" Rossi smiled.
Acknowledging that the 20-year-old will only get better, Rossi added: "I have to beat Marc as much as possible in the first half of the season, because maybe in the second half it will be more difficult!"
Also difficult could be the second round of the championship at Austin, Texas next weekend. A circuit where the Honda riders - and especially Marquez - dominated a private winter test.
http://www.crash.net/motogp/news/189646 ... an_me.html