MotoGP: Q1 progression helps Lorenzo to front row

Ducati rider Jorge Lorenzo sys being forced to progress from qualifying one to qualifying two for tomorrow’s Aragon Grand Prix helped him out in the long run, giving him valuable insight into track conditions and allowing him to finish runner-up to pole man Maverick Viñales on the grid for tomorrow’s race.

The Spaniard was caught out in this morning’s free practice three session, the first dry track time of the weekend, ending the session just outside the top ten that automatically qualify – but enjoying the experience after finishing the day in second.

“Today we did a really good job and I’m pleased with my progress from this morning until this afternoon. I had some great sensations both in FP4 and in qualifying and it was quite a surprise to be on the front row if you look at my times this morning. This time it was useful to take part in Q1 because I was able to do a lot more laps with the soft tyres and prepare better for Q2. I think I have a good pace, but it will be very important to choose the rear tyre and manage it well during the race. In any case I’m ready to do a good race tomorrow.”

However, the changeable conditions of the weekend so far didn’t play into the hands of teammate and joint championship leader Andrea Dovizioso, who finished the day a disappointing seventh after struggling to find the right balance of tyres.

“Unfortunately, because of the conditions we found yesterday, today we didn’t have much time to work on the bike and try the various types of tyres available. Before qualifying I didn’t have a great feeling, but I managed anyway to set a good time and we are all pretty close together.

“Even though I’m starting a bit behind in seventh place, I think I have a good chance for the race and tomorrow it will be the choice of rear tyre that will make all the difference. For us all three options are interesting and we haven’t decided which one to choose yet so this evening me and my team will have to study the data well.”