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MotoGP, Zarco: "Being close to the pole boosts my confidence"

The Frenchman: "Lorenzo? When I overtook him in Motegi I knew what I was doing. In the race duelling with other riders is normal" 

MotoGP: Zarco: "Being close to the pole boosts my confidence"

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Once again on the front row at Phillip Island is Johann Zarco. This time, the Frenchman was unable to take home pole position, but his third place time is certainly an indicator not to be underestimated in view of the race tomorrow, scheduled for 6 in the morning GMT.

“I am very satisfied with my performance and the tyres – the Tech3 rider began – I think that I have a good pace and the improvement during FP4 was significant. I feel good on the bike, although I am not at 100% – he added – Being close to the pole definitely boosts my confidence and gives me more focus.”

He then turns his attention to tyre choice.

“Right now I still think that the soft is the best solution to be fast – he analysed – On the front I feel confidence, although I don’t know what will happen tomorrow from 4 PM on when the temperatures drop. In any case, my goal is to battle for the podium.”

In this 2017 season, the Tech3 Frenchman is without a doubt one of the most pleasant surprises in the top class.

“This is my rookie year in MotoGP. There are a lot of changes, including the tyres. The Michelins have definitely helped me to gain confidence and when you have good sensations on the bike, you consequently feel stronger.”

Zarco was also questioned on the proposal to change the time for the 2018 race, making it earlier than four in the afternoon.

“This is the first time I’ve raced in Australia at this time. I wouldn’t know how to answer. If I’m on the podium tomorrow, 4 PM will be just fine with me (he smiles).

His last comment is on his much-debated pass on Lorenzo last week.

“When I overtook him, I knew what I was doing – he recalled – Sometimes it happens that you touch, like with Rossi in Austin. In Japan it was raining during the race, but I think it is normal to duel. Vale and Jorge are certainly two riders with a lot more experience than I have, so I will try to improve.”

Translated by Jonathan Blosser
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