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MotoGP, Pirro already on track at Valencia with the Ducati GP17

The Ducati test rider is on track from Wednesday to Friday with the prototype destined for Lorenzo

Pirro already on track at Valencia with the Ducati GP17

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Ducati is fast-tracking its work in order to be ready for the all important test that Jorge Lorenzo will carry out at Valencia at the end of the championship.

As has already been revealed, Yamaha will only 'release' the Majorcan for two days and so this will be Gigi Dall'Igna's only chance to understand the needs of the rider whom he previously led to title victory on two occasions in the 250 class with Aprilia.

While the other manufacturers will be able to test at Jerez, after the Valencia test before the test ban comes into play at the end of November, Ducati will not have this luxury. An enormous advantage for Yamaha (that will test at Sepang) with Maverick Vinales and for Suzuki, that will be on track with Iannone.

For this reason, Michele Pirro cannot stand in for Andrea Iannone at Motegi as, from Wednesday to Friday, he will be at Valencia, the track at which Lorenzo will complete his first brief test, riding the new GP17 for the first time. These first miles that the new Desmosedici will complete are that important. The bike will feature revolutionised aerodynamics, without its distinctive winglets but undoubtedly boasting other new elements introduced by the dynamic Venetian engineer.

Pirro may then fly to Australia, and Phillip Island, to flank Andrea Dovizioso. As Ducati has continued to state throughout the season, Casey Stoner is not expected to participate.

 

Translated by Heather Watson

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