Lorenzo predicts four challengers in 2013

MotoGP's number one Spaniard (at the moment) has some pre-season predictions

REIGNING MotoGP world champion Jorge Lorenzo believes that there are four competitors for next years title - Dani Pedrosa, Valentino Rossi, Marc Marquez and himself. 

Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport the two-time world champion said: 'I'm the man to beat because I won the last championship, but Pedrosa won a lot last season, including the finale, so he has to be a favourite and then there's Marquez.'

On the subject of his new team mate Valentino Rossi, Lorenzo had this to say: 'Valentino is also a contender and cannot have forgotten how to win. The four of us are the favourites, but there can always be surprises and so I don't like to make predictions.'

'I have great respect for all the MotoGP riders…Valentino has won a lot, has achieved great success, is 'complete' as a rider and has no weaknesses except perhaps age.'

Lorenzo and Rossi experienced a turbulent relationship during their previous stint as team mates - with Lorenzo admitting the challenge from Marquez and Pedrosa, the dynamics within Yamaha this season will be vital. Will Lorenzo hold on to his MotoGP crown? Or will Rossi upset the apple cart?