MOTOR SPORT: Pole star takes it to the Max

MAX Biaggi is determined to launch a counter-attack on the season- long MotoGP domination of fellow Italian Valentino Rossi in today's 10th round of the series in the Czech Republic.

Biaggi, set to leave the Marlboro Yamaha team at the end of this season to lead a first-time campaign into the premier world series by his homeland Ducati factory, powered to pole with a fastest-ever lap of the 3.35-mile Brno circuit.

Biaggi said after breaking the circuit ton barrier for the first time with a lap at 100.95mph: "I've got to prove a point during the second part of this season by underlining the fact I'm a winner, and I intend to start here."

However, Biaggi, third in the title race, goes into the final seven rounds of this year's championship 111 points behind defending champion Rossi.

Michael Rutter boosted his MCN British Superbike title hopes with the fastest time in pre-event practice for tomorrow's tenth round of the championship at Cadwell Park.

The Renegade Ducati rider edged out title leader Steve Hislop on a Monster Mob Ducati.

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