Good start for Aprilia Racing in Misano

MAVERICK VIÑALES STRAIGHT THROUGH TO Q2, ALEIX ESPARGARÓ CRASHES AND WILL HAVE TO BATTLE IN Q1

Solid performance for Maverick Viñales on the first day of practice at Misano World Circuit. After finishing FP1 ninth, the Spaniard further improved in the Practice session, finishing eighth, which puts him straight through to Q2.

Practice was more complicated for Aleix Espargaró, however, in spite of the good pace he demonstrated. A crash without consequences on turn one in the final moments of his time-attack kept him from improving and relegated him to twelfth place. The Spanish rider will therefore have to go through Q1 and battle for a spot in Q2.

MAVERICK VIÑALES
“It was a good Friday, even if getting through to Q2 was difficult. All the riders were rather fast. I’m struggling more than last year, so we need to figure out where we can improve to be faster. In acceleration we are strong, but I’m lacking a bit of precision.”

ALEIX ESPARGARÓ
“I’m competitive and with the medium rear tyre I had a good race pace. I’m pleased with the way we began – better than what I expected on this track. It’s a shame about the mistake at the end of the session that kept me from improving my time.”

PAOLO BONORA
“Our home race started off well for Maverick, who went straight through to Q2. It’s a pity about Aleix not managing to get into the top 10 due to traffic during his time attack and then a crash in the final moments. We’ll continue working to improve, but the good pace both riders demonstrated makes us optimistic for the sprint race.”