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The statistics are all in Lorenzo's favour at Mugello, where he's won 5 of the last six editions. Practically domination, something that won't be easy to uphold with the Ducati. The GP17 hasn't exactly shone during the first part of the season and a handful of podiums is not what they expected in Borgo Panigale.
Both Jorge and Dovi tested at Mugello a couple of weeks ago, then more recently at Barcelona. Then there is the 'home GP effect' to give the men in red an extra hand. In other words, it won't be easy but isn't a lost cause either.
"After sixth place at Le Mans and above all the positive test we had last week at Montmelò, I come to Mugello feeling optimistic and with a great desire to race - states Lorenzo - We found some good solutions with the front tyre and the aim is to be as competitive as we were at Jerez. Now I’ve accumulated more mileage, and as a result more experience on the bike and I feel ready for the Italian GP. Mugello is one of my favourite circuits and it’s also one of the tracks where I have won the most in the past. This year we also have the fact that it’s Ducati’s home track, and this makes me even more motivated. I can’t wait to see all the fans in the Ducati Grandstand!”
The red crowd will be at the Correntaio, cheering on their riders. While you already know about Lorenzo, Dovizioso has never reached the Mugello podium since coming to Ducati.
“The Mugello round is the home Grand Prix for both me and for Ducati, so it is always something special. We count on being competitive seeing as for us it is a track we know very well, and so we will be looking for a good result. The test that we did here a couple of weeks back went well and the feeling is good. I’m convinced that if we work well throughout the weekend, we can do a good race.”
The two factory riders will be joined by Michele Pirro, who has his first wild card entry of the season. The Italian, full-time test rider for the team, has often surprised when given such an opportunity.
“Finally I return to the track for a GP for the first time since Aragon last year. I’m very happy because it’s always a fascinating experience to race at Mugello in front of our fans. As always I’ll try and do my best together with the guys in the Test Team to put our bike as far forward as possible. We have a good base and I am ready to try and get a good result in the race.”
