Laverty crashes

World 250 championship rookie Eugene Laverty finished pre-season testing for his first GP campaign with a crash at the Losail International Circuit in Qatar.

The 20-year-old crashed his production LCR Honda 250 machine in the morning session as he finished the final winter test 22nd fastest overall with a best time of 2.04.697.

Laverty completed 94 laps at the test and the crash added to a tough outing as he was plagued by a virus that left him with stomach pains.

Laverty, who finished third in last year’s British Supersport championship, said: “I haven’t been at 100% because of some stomach pain. I feel more comfortable on the bike but this morning I suffered a small crash but I feel OK.

“We must improve the front set-up because I need more stability. I have had very little testing time but feel confident for the future.”

Reigning world 125 champion Alvaro Bautista clocked the best time on the opening, while fellow Spaniard Hector Barbera was fastest today.