Positive Friday for Aprilia Racing with two RS-GP24 bikes through to Q2 in Montmeló

THIRD-PLACE TIME FOR ALEIX ESPARGARÓ AND SIXTH FOR MAVERICK VIÑALES IN THEIR HOME GP

It was a positive start for Aleix Espargaró, who once again confirmed his good sensations at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. In the practice session, the Granollers native had some outstanding time attacks, finishing the session in third place, just one tenth of a second behind the best time. Thanks to this performance, Aleix will go straight through to Q2. Espargaró, who still holds the track record set in May with an impressive time of 1:38.190, is determined to finish out his career in the best possible way.

Maverick Viñales also put in a solid performance on his home track, going straight through to Q2. The Spanish rider finished the practice session sixth, just three tenths of a second behind the best time, in spite of being conditioned by two yellow flags during his final time attack. With this result, Viñales remains consistent being one of only three riders on the MotoGP grid to have gone straight through to Q2 in every Friday practice session this season.

ALEIX ESPARGARÓ
“It was a positive Friday. I’m happy and satisfied with my performance, despite the track conditions being complicated because of poor grip due to the low temperatures. In recent races, I’ve struggled on Friday, becoming more competitive on Saturday, but I knew that I would need to give one hundred percent today. My team played a fundamental role, with crew chief Antonio Jiménez convincing me to make a front tyre change at the last minute which allowed me to do an outstanding flying lap.”

MAVERICK VIÑALES
“Unfortunately, in the final time attack, I encountered two yellow flags which kept me from improving my time. I think that we are more competitive than the race we did here in May. This season I have always managed to take full advantage of the bike on Friday, demonstrating consistency and a good level. Being in Q2 throughout the entire year is extremely positive.”

PAOLO BONORA
“A great start with both our riders directly in Q2. This is a special race for Aprilia Racing, the last for Aleix and Maverick, and we want to finish in the best possible way. The goal is to aim for a strong qualifying session and good results in both the sprint and the main race.”