We knew this was going to be a difficult race but maybe not so difficult!" Rossi said after chatter problems left him ninth on the grid. "I saw Toni come up on the inside and he hit me; this is racing and these things happen. I have known Toni for many years and he is a good rider. "He apologised to me after the race so I told him not to worry - only to remember to brake next time and if it is too late then to hit another bike instead of me!" he added.