The Australian currently holds the track record for fastest lap time and won both the United States Moto GP and the World Championship in 2007, so it is no surprise that Ducati's Casey Stoner had the fastest laps during Friday's first practice session at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Current leader in the World Championship Jorge Lorenzo and Honda Repsol's Andrea Dovizioso rounded out the top three. Lorenzo's teammate on Fiat Yamaha, reigning champion Valentino Rossi was sixth fastest.

Rossi broke his leg at his home grand prix in Italy six weeks ago and was not supposed to return to the racing circuit so soon, but surprised even himself last weekend with a 4th place at Sachsenring in Germany.

View the Weekly's photo blog for more photos from the first practice session.