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MotoGP, Iannone: "Pointless waiting for Father Christmas in August"

Andrea is under no illusions after a Friday as protagonist: "MotoGP has become like Formula 1, the bike counts more than the rider" 

MotoGP: Iannone: "Pointless waiting for Father Christmas in August"

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It is undoubtedly an encouraging Friday for Andrea Iannone in Valencia. In the morning, the Italian rider had the best time, whereas a crash in the afternoon sent his hopes up in smoke just as things were looking the best. In fact, the Suzuki rider was ready to ride his bike up there with the best.

“It’s a nice way to approach 2018 – number 29 began – I am very enthusiastic about the morning session, but also about the entire day. Despite the crash, we are on the right path – he added – In fact, I am able to ride easily, even if a few aspects need to be improved, like grip or front lift-up. In any case, in FP2 we worked on race strategy with used tyres, managing to stay close to the best.

The Suzuki rider’s face betrays a bit of regret because of the crash in the afternoon.

I had changed tyres – he recalled – Unfortunately, on turn ten I crashed on the direction change. It was a strange crash, but these things can happen. Maybe it was because the tyre was still cold.”

In the latest races, Marquez and Dovizioso have hogged the spotlight. Doubts remain as to whether there might be a different script at Valencia, given the performance of Lorenzo, Pedrosa and even Iannone.

It would be great – Andrea commented – We work every weekend to be competitive. In fact, we always aim for the best possible result – he continued – Even if the true values then come out during the weekend and we need to be realistic. It’s pointless to dream of Father Christmas when it’s still August (he smiles).”

His final comment has to do with how much the bike and rider counts in 2017.

“If the bike doesn’t work, there is not much you can do in MotoGP – Iannone analysed – Look at the Yamahas, for example. By now, we are like Formula 1 – he concluded – There isn’t much of a chance and anyone who says differently is not very sincere. The strong rider can make the difference on the last three laps.”

Translated by Jonathan Blosser
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