TOP-FIVE RESULT FOR SALAČ ON OPENING DAY AT MOTEGI
Free Practice – #JapaneseGP Day one for the Japanese Grand Prix was only a half of what it normally is track-action wise, with only one free practice session for the riders of team Gresini Racing Moto2. Filip Salač showed excellent form in his – and the series’ – return to the Twin Ring Motegi venue after two years of absence, as the Czech rider remained in the top positions throughout the session and was fifth in the end. Tomorrow morning’s FP2 times will combine with the ones set today to decide who is going to Q2 from the main door.
Alessandro Zaccone had a much more challenging time as today marked his official debut at the track. The rider #61 needs more track time in order to learn all the secrets of the track – and improve his braking marks. He will have a chance to do so tomorrow morning in the second free practice session, with 40 more minutes to exploit in order to further improve his track knowledge and overall performance.
5th – FILIP SALAČ #12 (1’50.967)
Friday is over already; it was a quick one with only one session here at Motegi! I’m happy as we were strong from the beginning and consistently in the top positions. We didn’t make any adjustments to the bike, just changed the tyres. I must say that the set-up is good and I feel mentally strong also because I love this track – it really suits my riding style perfectly. Let’s wait and see how the weather will be like tomorrow: it was key for us to be in the top 14 today to eventually secure the direct seed to Q2 should it rain during FP2. Let’s see what happens and just enjoy!”
27th – ALESSANDRO ZACCONE #61 (1’53.213)
“The first session was a disaster as I still haven’t figured out the track! I need a lot more track time as I’m losing a lot in the braking areas. The track itself is beautiful and it’s a shame that rain is forecast for tomorrow: I need to put in a lot more laps on the dry. In any case, we’ll keep working!”
