Jorge Lorenzo will start from pole position in the Catalunya MotoGP race after Australia's Casey Stoner qualified third-fastest.

The Spanish Yamaha rider, who is vying with Stoner and Italian star Valentino Rossi for the series lead, timed 1min 41.974sec in qualifying.

Lorenzo, who is second in the overall standings behind Stoner, edged out Yamaha team-mate Rossi to record his third pole of the season. Stoner, who won the world title in 2007, was third-fastest, setting up what could be a spectacular race on Sunday.

Despite failing to secure first place on the grid, Rossi said he was happy with his afternoon's work in sweltering conditions.

"I'm so happy because we have worked well on the bike and from yesterday I feel good when I'm riding. It's better than at other recent races," said the world champion.

Rossi added he was confident of winning at a track where his last victory came in 2006.

AFP