Smith hoping for better form on European return

Bradley Smith is hoping for a return to better for this weekend when MotoGP returns to Europe, after a difficult start to the season for the Monster Tech 3 Yamaha racer.

Struggling since before the season started to find form on the new Michelin tyres, he says that a return to a track that the team know well after three unusual fly-away races should help them get back on their feet.

“The start of the season has not gone as well as I have hoped for, but I am ready to rectify this at Jerez and get back to where I should be. It goes without saying that this year is different for a number of reasons, and I fell we’ve had a few teething problems with the tyres. Yet, I feel we are making good progress now and we could have ended well in Austin, had I not crashed.

“Nevertheless, that was then and this is now and my focus is on Jerez, a track I always look forward to. I won my first GP there in the 125 cc class and have finished all the races over the years. However, I need to get into the top eight and close the gap to my teammate in the standings.

“The Tech3 team is working really well and did a fantastic job in Austin, so I have the upmost confidence in them and I will give it everything I’ve got. I am keen for another close fight in the race, and going all out for that top independent position.”