The news from Pakistan following this week's elections for the national and provincial assemblies tentatively is positive for a country awash in dread of escalating terrorist violence and political stalemate.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Pakistan takes important step

Given this gruesome roll call, it is a wonder the Spaniard's mind isn't submerged by dread as he tears round the track but it is with a softer, more sensuous tone that Lorenzo explains his relationship with the motorbike that so often puts him in harm's way.

CNN: Motorbike champion Jorge Lorenzo dances with danger