The pre-race event for this weekend’s San Marino GP was something very different, for a select few riders. Marc Marquez, Dani Pedrosa, Danilo Petrucci, Jack Miller, Andrea Iannone and Paolo Simoncelli were taken to a private reception in the Vatican, with Pope Francis himself. As well as this reception the riders were taken on a tour of the Vatican and some of the sights the city has to offer.

Thursday’s press conference will include Marquez, Lorenzo, Dovizioso, Iannone, Bagnaia and home hero, Rossi. It is likely the events of the British GP, the decision to cancel it and the impact it will have on the championship will be discussed, as well as new signings and this weekend’s action. Despite there being no points awarded for the British GP, Marquez remains the championship leader, 59 points adrift in 2^nd position is Rossi, who is followed by Lorenzo.

Last year's race winner, and current championship leader Marquez will look to extend his lead further, keeping Rossi and Lorenzo at bay. Petrucci finished 2nd in last year's Grand Prix, despite his best efforts, he is still searching for his maiden win, he will look to build on previous successes and aim to win this weekend. After a stunning performance last season, Dovizioso has not quite had the season that was expected. However, this weekend, in Italy, he will look to draw from his home fans, and build on his performance last year, seeking a win at the San Marino GP.

Friday looks to be overcast with chances of thunder and lightning, with highs of 26º. Saturday looks to be sunny with some cloud cover throughout the day with highs of 24º. Whilst Sunday looks to provide perfect race conditions, with highs of 26º, with little/no cloud cover.

The Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli promises to bring a weekend of action and thrills. Can home hero Rossi end Yamaha’s drought, will championship leader Marquez run away at the front or will one of the Bologna Bullets steal the thunder?