Yamaha World Superbike rider Marco Melandri was on hand yesterday to inaugurate the third edition of Motodays in Rome , together with President of Roma Fiera Mauro Mannocchi and CEO of Infront Motor Sports, Paolo Flammini. The Italian took part in the traditional walk-through, signing hundreds of autographs for fans at the fair on the opening day.

"In Australia I finished on the podium on my debut in the category but I was a bit disappointed because I wasn't in the best of condition," declared the former 250 GP world champion. "I was hoping to win and now at Donington I'll be looking to do another great race and make up for the result I didn't get at Phillip Island. Hopefully it won't be too cold, because I'm getting on a bit in the years now and I'm beginning to feel it! As for my rivals, the man to watch is Checa who's leading the table ".

Motodays continues through until Sunday, with the presence of three more Superbike riders, Michel Fabrizio (Suzuki Alstare), James Toseland (BMW Motorrad Italia) and three-times champion Troy Bayliss the star attractions.