British Grand Prix: 28th to second for Bradley Smith

Bradley Smith produced a fantastic display of overtaking in appalling conditions to claim his maiden Moto2 podium with a stunning comeback at Silverstone.

Starting from a lowly 28th on the grid after an electrical fault cost him most of Saturday’s qualifying session, the 20-year-old eventually finished second to the delight of a home crowd of over 70,000 fans.

The Tech 3 Racing Team rider gained 15 places on the opening lap and he needed only three laps to break into the top ten.

By the end of the fourth lap he was into the top six and on lap eight he passed compatriot Scott Redding to move into the top three.

A mistake by reigning World Supersport champion Kenan Sofuoglu on lap 11 promoted Smith to second, Despite his best efforts he was unable to threaten German Stefan Bradl, who romped to a fourth win in six races.

Smith, who finished third in last year’s British 125GP, said: “It hasn’t sunk in yet to be honest. The rain definitely helped me out and I doubt I’d have finished second if it was a dry race, so for once I’m not going to complain about the British weather. Starting from 28th I knew I had to make a good start and (Esteve) Rabat went in really hot into the first corner and sat a lot of people up and I was nearly off the track.

“But going into Turn 3 I went right around the outside of about five people and just kept making moves. In the pack the spray was really bad and I couldn’t see anything, so I just got my head down and went for it. I had a really good pace but I had nothing for Stefan. I tried to keep a fast pace and put some pressure on him but he was cool and never really made a mistake that gave me a chance.

“But to finish second after all the chaos and drama of qualifying, it is something that I never expected when I woke up. To finish on the podium in my home race two years in a row is an amazing feeling. I love Silverstone, so I can’t wait to come back here next year already. Looking at the championship I’m only 18-points behind second position, which is unbelievable considering we’ve had some bad luck at the start of the year.”