Outstanding Aprilia in the Le Mans sprint race

VIÑALES THIRD AND ESPARGARÓ FIFTH, DESPITE A DOUBLE LONG LAP PENALTY

In line with the performance demonstrated on Friday, Maverick Viñales began the day leading the FP2 session. In Q2, a series of yellow flags denied him the chance to improve on his third-place time. During the Sprint Race, his pace was compromised by a rear grip problem that arose straight away in the opening laps. In any case, the Spanish rider managed to finish third, taking his fourth podium of the season – his third in the Sprint Race.

During Q2, Aleix Espargaró managed to clinch the sixth spot on the grid, in spide of a crash without consequences in the final portion of the session. In the opening laps of the Sprint Race, he was able to move into the top positions, thanks in part to his outstanding race pace. Nevertheless, the Spaniard received a double long lap penalty for an early start. Despite the penalty, he managed to limit the damage, finishing the Sprint Race fifth. 

MAVERICK VIÑALES
“From the race start I struggled with the rear tyre overheating. We need to figure out why, but we can still be pleased with the result. Being on the podium, despite the less than optimum conditions with the bike, is an extremely positive result. We’ll try to be out front straight away again in the race.”

ALEIX ESPARGARÓ
“It’s a shame that I made a mistake at the start but I still am not entirely comfortable with this clutch. In spite of the penalty, I still managed to finish fifth and that is extremely important. It will undoubtedly not be as hot in the race and that will help us manage the tyres. The bike is working well and I have the pace to stay with the best.”

ROMANO ALBESIANO
“We demonstrated that we perform well on this track. Maverick had greater potential than what he did in the race but unfortunately there were some problems with grip. The penalty against Aleix was disappointing but the important thing is to be back at the top in terms of performance and that is extremely positive for the team. We are confident for the race tomorrow.”