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Tag: MotoGP
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‘Fight until the final corner’ is the mantra; engines on at the #SpanishGP!
Andrea Dovizioso….all set for the European leg of the season. Photo: Ducati Jerez, 04 May 2018: MotoGP™ is back on European soil for the Gran Premio Red Bull de España and the grid is very much ready to get down to business at Round Four, with only eight points separating the top five riders in the Championship.
As always, it was time to talk on Thursday, with Championship leader Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) joined in the Press Conference by reigning Champion Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team), Movistar Yamaha MotoGP’s Maverick Viñales, Team Suzuki Ecstar’s Andrea Iannone, Ducati Team’s Jorge Lorenzo, Reale Avintia Racing’s Tito Rabat and late addition Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) after the Frenchman announced earlier in the day that he will be racing for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing from 2019.
Talk centered on the rider market, flashed back to Austin and looked forward to Jerez, with many taking stock as the European leg of the season gets in gear.
Dovizioso was the first to speak, and he was focused on the title fight. “I’m a bit surprised, with the results in the last two races, to be leading the Championship! But not too much because we finished the season in a good way last year and we started this year in a good way. We were focused on trying to get the maximum in the last two races because we knew it wasn’t the best for our bike. The results were ok but not the speed if we want to fight for the Championship, because there are so many fast riders. But we got more points than last year so I’m happy about that.”
The goal this weekend? The same as always – the consistency that has become ‘DesmoDovi’’s calling card: “We have to fight for the podium if we really want to fight for the Championship.”
Last year that fight for the title was against Marc Marquez and he, after a dramatic race in Argentina but a dominant bounce back in Texas, says it’s something of a reset in Jerez.
Marc Marquez. Photo: Honda Racing “The feeling was really good in Argentina and Austin, but now we’re in Europe it’s completely different – everything is more narrow, tight, everything is slower – so we need to understand the base setup and understand our level, and that of our rivals,” says Marquez. “And we’ll see with the new track surface – I think everyone will be very close. But we did a test here a month ago and it was good.”
One key topic for Marquez was the track and his record at the Spanish GP, where he’s only ever won once – in 2014. “I only have one victory but on the other hand, I’ve finished on the podium every year and that’s important. But I like this track. Normally we arrive here in the first part of the season without the bike being quite perfect, but this year I feel better. The first target is the podium but if I have a small chance, I will try to win.”
On domination and the style of win at the Americas GP, Marquez added it’s natural to try and win like that. But if it comes to it? “Normally, you don’t have the chance for a race like that because everything is so tight. We’ll see here in Jerez, but if we can win like that I will try, Johann will try, Andrea will try…but if not, I’ll fight until the final corner.”
Vinales. Photo: Movistar Yamaha MotoGP Compatriot Maverick Viñales is another who arrives fresh from a good result, finishing second in Texas after some more difficult races. With the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP team having had a more difficult race at the venue in 2017, a lot of eyes are on the Iwata marque and their progress.
“I’m curious to see how the bike is working because for sure we’ve improved a lot when there’s low grip,” says Viñales, referring to the unknown quantity of how the new asphalt will have changed the track. But first, he was very sure about something – progress. “In the second part of Qatar and Argentina, I was feeling good. We needed to improve the first part. But race by race we’re making steps and we can improve our level much more. From Qatar and in the next races we’re going to go up and up, I think we understand the way to go. I feel good on the bike and the team is really motivated.”
Andrea Iannone. Photo: Twitter Andrea Iannone was another who returned to the podium last time out. Taking his first rostrum finish at Suzuki, the ‘Maniac’ is back – and says they’re still close. “For us, it’s a positive moment,” says the Italian. “We needed the result for sure, and it’s good for us and everyone because we spent a lot of time and did a lot of work to arrive at this level. I think it’s important to stay focused, but it’s important we’ve remained more or less close to the top riders.”
Podium form is something Jorge Lorenzo had last season at Jerez. The five-time World Champion took his first
rostrum in red at the 2017 Spanish GP, and it’s a venue at which the number 99 has had much success. “Jerez has always been magic for me in the past few years,” smiles the ‘Spartan’.
Jorge Lorenzo. Photo: Ducati “I’ve had victories and last year I got my first podium at Ducati. It’s been a tough start to the year, but those tracks aren’t so good for our bike, so hopefully now we’re arriving at a good track for me and, now, for Ducati, where we had good winter tests and were fast, we can change the situation and I can demonstrate my value.”
The start of the season has been a different story for Tito Rabat, however, and the Spaniard began with a smile. “In these three races I think I enjoyed it more than the last two years! We’ve had a very good start to the season. I didn’t really expect to almost take three top-10s in a row…this year I feel good with the bike and with the team, learning and learning…now at a home GP we’ll see. It’s where I took my first win in 2013, so I’ll try to push to get a good result but as always thinking race by race and about improving.”
Zarco. Photo: Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Finally, it was time for some words from Zarco after the Frenchman’s move to Red Bull KTM Factory Racing was announced earlier in the day. The key word for the 2017 Rookie of the Year? Challenge.
“I’m happy we announced it this weekend,” smiled the two-time Moto2™ World Champion. “It’ll be a great challenge for the future. European constructor with a European rider, I think if we get a great result and we develop the bike well, we can have a fantastic future. The way they were developing the bike last year makes me think something is possible. I went there because I want the challenge. I’m on a great wave and I’m enjoying it so much, the performance is good too and I hope we can stay on this level in the next two years.”
The performance is good, the racing is close and it’s now time for the first European carnival of the season at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto. The riders taste the new asphalt in FP1 on Friday for the first time, with the lights going out for the race on Sunday.
Source: Motogp.com
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Johann Zarco joins Red Bull KTM Factory Racing for 2019 and 2020 MotoGP™ seasons
Making moves…..Johann Zarco. Photo: Twitter Jerez, 4 May 2018: Johann Zarco, currently with Monster Yamaha Tech 3, has been announced as Pol Espargaro’s teammate at Red Bull KTM Factory Racing for 2019 and 2020, confirming the strong rumors that had surrounded the Frenchman’s ride for 2019 and beyond.
Zarco, who was crowned Rookie of the Year in 2017, has been a consistent frontrunner since his graduation to the premier class after his two Moto2™ World Championships.
Johann Zarco. Photo: Twitter “There has always been a good contact with Johann and since the Red Bull Rookies Cup,” says Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsports Director. “We supported the Moto2 project through WP and our Moto3 Team Manager Aki Ajo is a good friend of him. We also have a nice connection with his manager Laurent Fellon. It was a group effort to get this done.
“We had to trust in our capability to build a winning bike and Johann would not come over if he did not see and feel that trust. We feel very responsible now to get that package strong enough so that he can continue on the level where he is. It is our big target.
“It is clear that we want to take another step in MotoGP. The first two years were about building up the project and to get everything running. You always want to get the best possible riders on board and it’s obvious with Johann beating the factory guys on satellite machinery and consistently qualifying on the front row means he is a strong fighter with a strong sprit. I’m convinced we can reach the next level with a rider like Johann with us.”
Zarco said on his twitter account: “My carreer will continue where everything begins, from RedBull Rookies Cup to the conquest of the MotoGP title. You understand it. I join @KTM Racing for the next two years. I’m very happy to ride this KTM, which we have the same ambitions: Ready to race! @Michelin Sport.”
#VR46WorldLap: a milestone for Rossi in Jerez
Rossi…another milestone. Photo: Movistar Yahama MotoGP In his 369th Grand Prix, Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) will be completing his 8730th overall lap on the 15th of the Spanish GP, here this weekend. What is so special about that, more than the incredible longevity? Upon completing Lap 15, the ‘Doctor’ will be reaching a remarkable milestone – racing the equivalent distance of a lap of the World, 40,075kms.
What kind of lap of the World? The circumference of the Earth; and it has taken Rossi 23 seasons to race it, in which he’s taken 115 wins, 228 podiums and nine World Championships across four categories. A World of success – quite literally!
Source: Motogp.com
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Go Pro will be the title sponsor of the British GP as MotoGP returns to Silverstone circuit
Paris, 2 May 2018: “GoPro is roped in as the title sponsor for the British GP in 2018, with the camera company taking top billing at the event to name it the GoPro British Grand Prix,” said Dorna Sports and added that it is delighted to make the announcement here today.Set for the 24th – 26th August in 2018, the race weekend will once again take place at the stunning Silverstone Circuit – its home since 2010.GoPro, already a partner of MotoGP™, are synonymous with action content and recording, from elite athletes to adventure travelers and beyond – including the GoPro on board lap recorded ahead of each MotoGP™ race weekend. Their range of cameras and software solutions consistently redefine the possible, with their constant push for innovation, quality and technological excellence making them a perfect title sponsor for the British GP.
“Our continued partnership with Dorna Sports and MotoGP has been integral in bolstering global awareness for GoPro,” says GoPro CMO Todd Ballard. “And we are thrilled by the opportunity to play host of the British Grand Prix at the historic Silverstone circuit.”
“GoPro are a perfect partner for MotoGP™,” adds Pau Serracanta, Managing Director – Dorna Sports. “They share our passion for speed, adrenaline and excellence, and we can’t be happier than to see them come on board as title sponsor for the British Grand Prix – extending our relationship and once again deepening the commitment shared by both parties. We look forward to the GoPro British Grand Prix and to another stunning weekend of racing.”
Engines fire up for the event on Friday 24th August, before we go racing on Sunday 26th.
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‘King’ Marquez extends COTA reign with another win; Dovi leads championship
Marc Marquez celebrates another win at COTA. Photo: Honda Racing Austin (Texas, US), 23 April 2018: It’s closer than ever as the flag falls at the end of the Americas GP, with Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) taking the win and Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) the Championship lead as Texas shook up the standings. There are now five riders within eight points at the top of the title fight – with Marquez a point off the top after his win, and Maverick Viñales (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) moving up to third after a second place finish at COTA.
Vinales. Photo – Movistar Yamaha MotoGP The Americas GP also made it back-to-back podium finishes for Suzuki, with Andrea Iannone (Team Suzuki Ecstar) putting in an impressive push from the front row to take third and his first rostrum finish of the season – and first rostrum with the Hamamatsu factory.
It was also Iannone who got the holeshot from second on the grid, but Marquez also got a stunner from Row 2 – slotting into second and on the chase behind the ‘Maniac’. Making his move soon after and taking the lead, the number 93 started to pull a gap, but Iannone wasn’t done, and gave it everything for a late dive up the inside of the reigning Champion. Running a bit wide on the exit, Marquez took him back, then putting his head down.
From there on, the spectacular ballet of man and machine once more ruled the rodeo in Texas – with the victory making it 10 consecutive premier class wins for Marquez on US soil.
Andrea Iannone. Photo: Suzuki Racing Reflecting on his win, Marquez said: “This weekend I really gave it my all. Today I was totally focused, as I wanted to remain perfect here at Austin. I don’t think that ever in my career have I had such a race, pushing so hard from the first lap. Today, I felt that this was the right way and was able to do it, in part because my bike’s setup helped me a lot, so thanks to everyone in my garage as they’ve worked really well and hard.
“Yesterday, I was a bit ill, and even today I didn’t feel I had perfect energy, but it turned out to be a good race anyway – a lonely one, but sometimes it goes like that. Last night, when I was going to sleep, I thought about the strategy, and today, I followed it. Even in the warm-up, I tried to simulate the first laps of the race, going out on new tyres and with a full tank. That was in the plan.
“I told the team that I wanted to try to lead the race from the beginning and pull a gap. So in the first three or four laps, I pushed a bit more than usual, and then I managed the advantage. Today I had special motivation.
“There was a lot of pressure, but I like the pressure, as it helps to keep focused. I felt a special feeling on the last lap, when I passed in front of Nicky’s flag. So, I’m happy with the result and for recovering ground in the Championship, but now we go back to Europe, where we must be consistent, because look who’s leading the standings: Dovi, the most consistent rider! The feeling with my bike is very good, and the same has been true in Qatar and Argentina, so we’ll try and continue this way.”
Tight battle for podium spots
Championship leader Dovizioso. Photo: Ducati Behind, however, it was getting pretty tight. Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) was pressuring teammate Viñales for third as Iannone held firm in second. But lap-by-lap, Viñales was able to ease away and stake his claim on P2, closing in on Iannone before a well-judged pass into Turn 1 saw the Spaniard able to get through and then pull away. Keeping it calm, he took his first podium of the season in second, and Iannone did the same in third.
Rossi came home fourth, with Dovizioso taking fifth after a particularly difficult weekend. Well-rewarded for a solid race, the 2017 runner-up is now the leader of the pack once again after his controlled performance, including a late race pass on Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3).
Rossi. Photo: Movistar Yamaha MotoGP Rossi said: “It was a good weekend because we were always in the top five, but in the race, I hoped and expected to be a bit stronger to fight for the podium. I know that Marquez and Maverick were a bit stronger. I hoped I’d be fast enough to fight for the podium with Iannone, but Andrea was faster than me, so I was not able to arrive and attack.”
Zarco was top Independent Team rider in P6, with former Championship leader Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol) sliding out at the final corner when attacking the Frenchman earlier in the race. Alex RIns (Team Suzuki Ecstar) also then suffered a tumble soon after – riders ok and Crutchlow able to rejoin.
Heroic ride by ‘Little Samurai’
Dani Pedrosa. Photo: Repsol Honda Meanwhile, Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda Team) followed up two stunning showings on Friday and Saturday to come home in a superhuman P7. Back on track and racing just over a week after surgery on his broken wrist sustained in the Argentina GP, the ‘Little Samurai’ rode a heroic push through the pain barrier around the punishing, technical challenge of the Circuit of the Americas in a performance worthy of the history books, taking home nine points ahead of the Championship’s return to one of his best venues: Jerez.
There was a Borgo Panigale battle around three seconds behind three-time World Champion Pedrosa, with Tito Rabat (Reale Avintia Racing) impressively beating Jack Miller (Alma Pramac Racing) to the line for eighth. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) completed the top ten, putting in an impressive push to keep Jorge Lorenzo (Ducati Team) behind him after a tough race for the five-time World Champion.
Danilo Petrucci (Alma Pramac Racing) took P12, ahead of some impressive points for Pol Espargaro and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing in P13. Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) was top rookie in P14, ahead of Alvaro Bautista (Angel Nieto Team).
So there we have it. The rodeo is ridden and the points are given, and what a Championship we have on our hands as we head for Jerez: five riders within eight points, with ‘DesmoDovi’ the man in the lead on the road to Europe. Marquez trails him by one point, Viñales by five and Crutchlow by eight – with Zarco equal on points with the Brit, back in P5 due to Crutchlow having a race win.
Now, it’s carnival time. Packed grandstands, Spanish sun, the awesome Circuito de Jerez and one of the best atmospheres of the year – with the Championship so close, there’s almost nothing in it!
Francesco Bagnaia (SKY Racing Team VR46) took the honours in Moto 2 ahead of Alex Marquez (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) and Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Ajo).
Jorge Martin (Del Conca Gresini Moto3) topped the Moto 3 field and he was followed home by Enea Bastianini (Leopard Racing) and Marco Bezzecchi (Redox Pruestel GP) in that order.
Source: motogp.com, Honda Racing Corporation
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Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas – A Sunday Guide for you
MotoGP
Maverick Viñales starts from pole position for the sixth time in the premier class, becoming the first non-Honda rider to start from pole in the USA since Jorge Lorenzo in Laguna Seca back in 2012. He crashed out of the race on the second lap last year at Austin.In second place on the grid is Andrea Iannone, who starts from the front row for the first time since he was third on the grid at Valencia in 2017. This is also the best qualifying result for Suzuki in the USA since Chris Vermeulen was on pole in Laguna Seca back in 2007.
In third place is Johann Zarco, who starts from the front row for the seventh successive time since Japan last year. He is the highest-placed Independent Team rider on the grid.
After being given a penalty of three grid positions, Marc Márquez won’t start from pole position for the sixth successive year at the Grand Prix of the Americas. He is still aiming to take his sixth successive win at this track, however, which would be his 10th successive win in the MotoGP™ class in the USA. Marquez has not stood on the top step of the podium since Australia last year.
Valentino Rossi starts from the middle of the second row, his best qualifying result since he was fourth in Sepang last year, which was also the last time there were three Yamahas within the top five. He will be aiming to take his first win in the USA since Indianapolis in 2008.
As it was last year, the top Ducati rider on the grid at Austin is Jorge Lorenzo in sixth place.
Heading the third row is Cal Crutchlow who will be aiming to become the first British rider to win back-to-back races in the premier class since Barry Sheene back in 1977 (Belgium/Sweden) and the first Independent Team rider to do so since Marco Melandri in 2005.
In eighth place on the grid is Andrea Dovizioso, who has been the first Ducati rider across the line four times since the Circuit of the Americas joined the calendar five years ago, including two podium finishes in 2014 and 2015.
Injured Dani Pedrosa, who has been on the podium on three of his four visits in Austin, starts from ninth on the grid.
Álex Rins starts from 11th on the grid. He has won the Moto3™ race in 2013 and the Moto2™ race two years ago at Austin but he missed the MotoGP™ race last year due to a left wrist injury sustained in FP3.
Takaaki Nakagami will complete the fourth row as the top rookie on the grid, which is his best qualifying result in the MotoGP™ class.
The last twelve MotoGP™ races have been won by either Ducati or Honda riders. The last non-Honda or Ducati rider to win a MotoGP™ race was Valentino Rossi in Assen last year.
Moto2
Álex Márquez is on pole position for the fifth time in the Moto2™ class, equalling Mattia Pasini, Takaaki Nakagami and Andrea Iannone. He will be aiming to win his first race since Japan last year and his fourth in the class.Sam Lowes qualified in second place on the grid, his third front row start in the Moto2™ class at Austin. On the two previous occasions, he went on to finish on the podium – he was second in 2016 and won in 2015, which was his first Grand Prix victory.
Championship leader Mattia Pasini starts from third on the grid, his first front row start since he was also in third in Valencia last year. He will be aiming to win back-to-back races for the first time since 2007 in 125cc.
Heading the second row of the grid is Francesco Bagnaia, who finished 16th last year at Austin as a rookie.
Joan Mir starts from fifth as the top rookie on the grid; also his best qualifying result on what is his third race in the Moto2™ class.
Taking the final place on the second row is Luca Marini in his best qualifying result since he was fifth in Silverstone last year. He will be aiming for a first podium finish of his Grand Prix career.
In 15th place on the grid, Romano Fenati is scheduled to make his 100th Grand Prix start at Austin. He won last two Moto3™ races at this track.
Moto3
Jorge Martín qualified on pole position for the first time this season and the 10th time in his Grand Prix career. After Losail this year, he will be aiming to win his third race and equal Arón Canet and Niccolò Antonelli’s number of victories.Championship Leader Arón Canet, who started from pole position last year at Austin, is on the front row for the first time since he was third on the grid in Japan last year. He fought for the lead in 2017 before crashing out. Canet is the only rider across the three classes to have stood on the podium at opening two races of the season.
The highest placed KTM rider on the grid is John McPhee in third place, which is his first front row start since he was also third fastest back in Malaysia last year. For the fourth successive time, there will be at least one KTM rider on the front row.
Heading the second row is Tatsuki Suzuki, equalling his best qualifying result from Valencia last year.
In fifth place on the grid is Fabio Di Giannantonio, his best qualifying result since he was fourth in Misano last year. Alongside teammate Jorge Martín, he is the only rider on the grid who has been on the podium at Austin. He’s aiming to win his first race in what is his 40th Grand Prix.
Taking the final place on the second row is Enea Bastianini, who has finished fourth at COTA twice – in 2015 and last year.
Gabriel Rodrigo starts from 12th place on the grid, the first time he has failed to qualify on the front row since he was fifth in Malaysia last year.
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Sparks fly as Viñales takes pole after Marquez gets 3-place penalty!
Maverick Vinales celebrating pole position. Photo: Movistar Yamaha GP Austin (Texas, US), 22 April 2018: Things got pretty hot in Texas in qualifying for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas, with drama first striking as reigning Champion Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) took a tumble at Turn 13 and was heading back to the garage on the back of a scooter as his rivals started to threaten his provisional pole. But the number 93 was able to get back out, and set a sixth pole position at the Circuit of the Americas – closely followed by the man who seems set to try and challenge him on Sunday, Maverick Viñales (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP). It wasn’t done there, however…
Viñales, after an impressive show of race pace earlier in the day in FP4, came across a slower-moving Marquez on his first flyer on his second run and was forced to abandon the lap. Nevertheless, the Spaniard set the second quickest lap on a final push – and he’ll be starting from pole.
After the incident between the two men was investigated by the FIM MotoGP™ Stewards, Marquez was given a three-place grid penalty and will therefore actually start from fourth.
Front row for Andrea Iannone
Andrea Iannone. Photo: Team Suzuki Ecstar Andrea Iannone (Team Suzuki Ecstar) – another man who has been key competition for Marquez in practice – set the third fastest lap and will be starting from the front row and now second place, with Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) bumped back onto the front row to make it seven races in the row the Frenchman has lined up there.
The ‘Maniac’, however, was a protagonist of sorts in the drama of the day – it was him Marquez was focused on when the reigning Champion then impeded Viñales, having been looking the wrong way.
Why? “I know a fast rider behind me can improve his laptime, and Iannone yesterday was first,” explained Marquez. “I was looking more for Iannone, and then I didn’t expect Maverick!”
And he was right to look, with Iannone confirming that was the idea: “Every rider tries to do the best for himself. I went out from the pits, I saw Marc, and I know he’s fast so I tried to follow him…and he didn’t want to overtake me…”
Marc Marquez. Photo: Repsol Honda As stated, however, the Italian was indeed first on Friday, and led the timesheets into Saturday afternoon. The impressive qualifying – and he did eventually end up just behind Marquez in the session – just adds on the positives, and sets Iannone up for a solid Sunday.
On pace, too, it’s looking rosy for Sunday – but there Iannone errs on the side of caution, saying only that he’ll be pushing.
“At the moment it’s only on paper. For sure I want to be on the podium tomorrow and we need a good result, we’ve worked a lot since last year and step by step we’ve closed the gap. We’ll see tomorrow, but I’ll start with all my energy and push at 150%,” said Iannone.
Valentino Rossi on pace
Valentino Rossi. Photo: Movistar Yamaha MotoGP He had Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) for very close company on the timesheets; the Italian just 0.019 back and now starting fifth, next to Marquez now heading up Row 2. And it was just as tight for sixth and the final spot on the second row, as Jorge Lorenzo (Ducati Team) was only another 0.065 in arrears behind the ‘Doctor’. Three men certain to attack right from lights out, with 20 World Championships between them.
“I’m quite satisfied about these two days because I’m always quite fast and I feel good with the bike,” said the number 46. “We worked in a good way. I thought that I had the potential for the front row but maybe I wasn’t fast enough. But anyway, we start from the top five which is ok for the race tomorrow.”
“Now we have to fix some very small details,” concludes the ‘Doctor’, “and we also have to hope that we have some sun and a dry race.”
Cal Crutclow slots in seventh
Championship leader Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol) took seventh as he aims to keep his points lead on Sunday, and he’s just ahead of the man chasing him in the standings, Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) – who’s won off the third row before.
Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda Team) completes that star-studded third row. The three-time World Champion is racing only a week and a bit after surgery on a broken wrist sustained in the Argentina GP, and not only gained direct entry to Q2, but took a third row start in another superhuman effort.
Q1 graduate Danilo Petrucci (Alma Pramac Racing), Argentina GP podium finisher Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) and Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) completed the top twelve – with Espargaro having put in a stunner to come through Q1 and get KTM’s first visit to Q2 this season. Thereafter, however, the KTM rider was also given a three-place grid penalty, meaning Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) will start P12.
It’s set up to be a stunner, with Viñales alongside Marquez and Rossi and Zarco gunning from Row 2. Think you can call it in the MotoGP™ League? Iannone already said it on Friday: “Anything is possible!”
Meanwhile, Alex Marquez (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) took pole position in Moto 2 with Sam Lowes (Swiss Innovative Investors) and Mattia Passini (Italtrans Racing) completing the front row.
In Moto 3, Jorge Martin (Del Conca Gresini Moto3) grabbed the pole position ahead of Aaron Canet (Estrella Galica) and John McPhee (CIP – Green Power).
MotoGP™ Qualifying Results
1 – Marc Márquez (SPA) HONDA 2’03.658
2 – Maverick Viñales (SPA) YAMAHA + 0.406
3 – Andrea Iannone (ITA) SUZUKI + 0.551
First Independent Team Rider
4 – Johann Zarco (FRA) YAMAHA + 0.552 -
Marquez has company: the King of COTA overthrown on Friday by Iannone
Andrea Iannone on a charge. Photo: Team Suzuki Ecstar Austin (Texas, US), 21 April 2018: Andrea Iannone (Team Suzuki Ecstar) left his best till last at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas as the ‘Maniac’ slammed in a 2:04.599 to depose the ‘King of COTA’ Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) from the top on Friday.
Marquez. Photo: Repsol Honda The gap between the two was just 0.056, and Marquez also suffered a crash on Friday – rider ok. Behind the number 93, the Movistar Yamaha duo of Maverick Viñales and Valentino Rossi completed the top four, within another couple of tenths as it tightened up at the top.
With weather looking set to change on Saturday in Austin, the end of FP2 saw a mad dash to get into the top ten and secure provisional entry to Q2 qualifying. In that rush, Iannone was the last to strike big – and win – but there was another big headline, too: Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) ending the day in P13 overall; heading for Q1 if the rain comes.
Behind the four men at the top, the timesheets remained tight and it was Championship leader Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol) locking out the top five as he aims to hold onto that advantage heading back from the US.
Rossi. Photo: Movistar Yamaha MotoGP One of the men fighting him for the win last time out, Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar), was on his tail in P6 as the Spaniard got Texas off to a positive start – keeping compatriot Jorge Lorenzo (Ducati Team) just behind him by a mere three hundredths.
Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) was eighth, moving up late on in the day and securing a safe move through to Q2 if the skies changes on Saturday, with an impressive performance from Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) seeing the Spaniard take ninth, just under a tenth off the 2017 Championship runner-up.
Vinales. Photo: Movistar Yamaha MotoGP Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda Team), meanwhile, completed the top ten. The three-time World Champion found FP1 tough going as he rides just over a week after surgery on a broken wrist, but was back at it in FP2. Pedrosa also put in a representative amount of laps as he tested his fitness, as well as being able to take a stunning provisional place in Q2.
So, will the skies change over COTA? Will the King take back his throne on Saturday? Or will the competition get even closer as we count down to Round 3…
Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Ajo) topped the time sheets in both Free Practice sessions in Moto 2 as did Jorge Martin (Del Conca Gresini Moto3) in Moto 3.
Source: motogp.com
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We did a good job and deserve to be where we are at this moment, says Cal Crutchlow
Cal Crutchlow celebrating victory in Argentina. Photo: calcrutchlow.com Austin (Texas, US), 20 April 2018: Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol), winner of the race in Argentina, asserted that he and his team deserved to be where they are at the moment, heading the MotoGP championship, though the positions can change after this weekend’s Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas.
Speaking at Thursday’s pre-event Press Conference, here, Crutchlow, backing up his words in parc ferme after his hard-fought win in Argentina, said: “I don’t know whether I’ve silenced any critics or not, but it’s true, don’t doubt me. I think we entered the season to do a good job, the team’s worked really well…sure, on Sunday or next race, maybe I’ll finish tenth and we won’t be leading, but I think at the moment we deserve it because we’ve done a good job. To be leading the rider and team standings is an honor for Lucio as well.”
The Brit then mentioned how good it is for riders – like himself – to be able to compete with the factory teams. “It’s nice for us three guys to be sat here, knowing we’re competitive with the factory teams. In Qatar, we were competitive too. It’s great for the Championship.”
Second in the Championship Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) said: “We were very lucky in Argentina, we took a lot of points without good speed. Jack (Miller) showed there was a possibility to be faster during the race, so it means we didn’t work in a perfect way, but it was tricky conditions and a lot of riders struggling. We’re not happy about that weekend, but we’re in a good position in the championship.”
The number 04 will be aiming to at least replicate his two podiums he has previously earned at the Circuit of the Americas, but the Ducati rider also acknowledged the increased level of competition this year.
“We have to fight for the podium or the top five, and then wherever we can, fight for the victory. I think, this year will be different to last because there are a lot of very fast riders, you have to take it race by race.”
Johann Zarco. Photo: Movistar Yamaha Tech 3 After his second place in Argentina, Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) was understandably in good spirits and the double Moto2™ World Champion is one of the ‘very fast riders’ Dovizioso was referring to. The Tech 3 rider comes into this weekend with the belief that he can take his first premier class victory.
“It’s pretty nice to get a podium already in the second race, and being close to the victory. On the last lap I was very close to Cal and thinking what I could do to win the race but it was difficult so finishing second was the best solution, and it makes me happy to be third in the Championship.
“I don’t want to say we’re just fighting for the podium. When you go racing you want to fight for victory. I need that mentality before the weekend. Why Marc is so fast here I don’t know, and I want to understand it throughout the weekend.”
Maverick Vinales. Photo: Movistar Yamaha MotoGP Maverick Viñales (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP), after a difficult opening couple of rounds, is hoping he can replicate the speed he has had here previously.
“It was important to stay on the bike and get points, then in the second half of the race I felt very strong. We need a better qualifying…but here in Austin I’ve been fast in the past so I’m excited to start and see if we can improve on Argentina.”
The former Moto3™ World Champion then suggested that if they worked on a few areas, he and his M1 machine will be as competitive as they were at the start of 2017. “I started to feel good on the last laps in Qatar, so we have to keep working, I think if we improve just a few things we can be as strong as last year.”
It’s a different story at the Team Suzuki Ecstar as the Hamamatsu factory has made big progress – and Alex Rins has taken his maiden MotoGP™ podium. There’s no doubt about how strong Rins looks this season, and the Spaniard spoke about his excellent weekend at Termas de Rio Hondo.
“We are doing a good job, but from pre-season the bike has started to feel good. In Argentina we had a perfect weekend, more or less like Qatar but in Qatar I lost the front and crashed.”
There were no such crashes in Argentina, and his podium confirmed his speed and competitiveness on the Suzuki in 2018. “We have a very competitive bike and we improved a lot from last year, also, I have more experience.”
Moreover, the number 42 comes to COTA with the fond memories of his first Grand Prix win. A track then, he enjoys. “I’m excited to start because this is one of my favourite tracks. I have good memories here and we need to keep the same level, work hard from the beginning trying to be in the top ten for qualifying…and enjoy the race.”
After his eventful weekend in South America, Jack Miller (Alma Pramac Ducati) began speaking about his race at Termas, and what he’s learnt from the race as a whole. The Australian was in the hunt for victory throughout, and despite ending up fourth, ‘Jackass’ showed he and his GP17 – along with the other Independent Teams – are very competitive this year, making for an exciting Championship.
“I’m frustrated but semi-satisfied as well. Knowing my past record in previous years I wouldn’t have made it past the first lap with that much pressure! It was a positive weekend for us. I had the feeling back I had in Thailand and Malaysia.
“There are so many guys on competitive bikes in the field, you can’t doubt anyone. Independent teams winning and nearly dominating the podium last week…it’s pretty impressive and it’s just going to get better and better as the year goes on.”
The level of competition in MotoGP™ has certainly reached new heights this year, so can one of the Independent Teams – once again – take victory this weekend and end Marc Marquez’s (Repsol Honda Team) dominance at COTA?
Source: motogp.com
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Rivals Rossi and Marquez prefer to look ahead; Pedrosa declared fit to race in Austin
Valentino Rossi. Photo: Movistar Yamaha MotoGP Austin (Texas, US), 20 April 2018: Here for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas, arch rivals Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) and Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) opted to look forward than back at the incident involving the two of them during the Argentina GP.
Nine times World Champion Rossi said: “The only thing to do now is to look to the future and think about this weekend. I think it’s important to get back on track, ride the motorcycle, to try to get the maximum and work with the team. I’m very happy to be here. Also because this track is very difficult, so you have a lot of work, it’s very long with a lot of corners – so we have to think about that. Do our work, and try the maximum.”
Then, when pressed on his comments at Termas de Rio Hondo, the ‘Doctor’ reaffirmed his opinion. “I watched the race. I think exactly what I said after the race in Argentina. But it’s better to look forward.” The door to talking through the issues with Marc Marquez, however, was left ajar. “Maybe it’s not yet time to talk, but maybe in the future.”
I learn from my mistakes: Marquez
It was a turbulent weekend in Argentina for reigning World Champion Marquez, and ahead of the Americas GP, the number 93, who was penalized thrice during the Argentina GP, said that it was a technical fault that saw him stall on the grid and that he focused on learning from the bad and taking the good from it.
Marc Marquez. Photo: Repsol Honda “The race weekend in Argentina and especially Sunday was very tricky for the conditions and a lot of things happened during the race weekend,” said the Repsol Honda rider. “But I’m a rider and a person who likes to improve and especially learn from everything. And I think from that race day everybody can learn a lot.”
It was a recurring theme for the number 93, who received three penalties during the race and was therefore eventually classified 18th. He also said he’s watched the race for precisely that reason – because it’s good to analyse the bad as well as the good.
“In Argentina, I did and said everything I believed in at the time, and I continue believing that. I’m a rider and a person who likes to improve and learn from, in this case, mistakes. A lot of things happened. I made mistakes, I was penalised and I went to apologise.
“We’re riders, we’re people and we all make mistakes. It’s a competition at the limit, and the track conditions were at the limit. So you learn from the bad and the good, and make sure it doesn’t happen again.”
Finally, when asked about the current climate and discussions centered on Argentina, Marquez says it’s best to concentrate on what’s happening on track. “I’m concentrating on myself, being at 100% on track – everything else, I try to keep some distance from.”
Pedrosa declared fit
Dani Pedrosa. Photo: Repsol Honda Meanwhile, Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda Team) has been passed fit to head out on his RC213V at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas, just one week after having surgery on a broken radius he sustained in his Argentina GP crash.
The initial fears were that Pedrosa would have to sit out this weekend, a track that he’s done well at in the past. However, as was confirmed earlier this week, the three-time World Champion will attempt to ride – and thanked fans for their messages of encouragement.
Source: motogp.com
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Still recovering Pedrosa to join Marquez in Austin for next round of MotoGp
A Honda illustration Austin, 18 April 2018: After undergoing successful surgery to his right wrist one week ago, Dani Pedrosa has begun his rehab period and, although he’s obviously not yet at 100% fit, he will join Marc Marquez in the United States to try and take part in the third round of the MotoGP World Championship in Austin.
Marquez and Pedrosa have strong records at the technical, 5.513-km Texas circuit. Marquez took his first MotoGP pole and victory at the venue in 2013 and has continued to post flawless qualifying performances and victories there ever since, bringing his tally of consecutive successes in the USA to 11 across all classes. Pedrosa has climbed the Circuit of the Americas podium three times out of the four occasions on which he has raced there.
The Repsol Honda Team, in turn, have a streak of 14 GP wins in a row on American soil, starting with Pedrosa’s Indianapolis victory in 2010.
At the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas, Marquez has five wins and five Pole positions (MotoGP: 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017) and Pedrosa has three podiums (MotoGP: 2nd in 2013 and 2014; third in 2017)
Marquez said: “After a good start to the season in Qatar, we got no points in Argentina, but I was feeling good on the bike in both races, which is positive. The season is long and the most important thing is that our level is there.
“Now we go to Austin, a good circuit with a good atmosphere and great memories: it was the place of my first pole and my first MotoGP victory and we’ve been able to be strong there since then, so it’s a good place to try and get a good result.
“That said, every season is different: the bikes, the tyres, the conditions. This year some work was done to reduce the bumps, so we’ll see how the track is. As we’ve done so far, over the weekend we’ll focus our work on the race setup, and then on Sunday we’ll see where we’re able to finish.”
Pedrosa said: “Since the operation, I started feeling a bit better every day. I’ve been doing exercises to gain mobility and reduce the inflammation. Little by little I’m recovering muscle tone, and this allows me to see some progress.
“From here, it’s difficult to know our real possibilities. We’re going to a difficult track and until I’m back on my bike I won’t be able to really know my situation. But what’s clear to me at this moment is that it’s well worth it to travel and try. An important part of my strength to go to Austin comes from your messages of support, so thank you very much to all of you.”
Honda Press Release
