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Approaching the weekend, the Sachsenring seemed like it would be a sort of purgatory for Ducati, but on Friday evening it seems like a paradise. There are 6 bikes from Bologna in the top 10 spots, Iannone is 2nd and Dovizioso 5th.
“I am the first to be surprised and pleased - laughs the rider from Abruzzo – In no way did I expect these sensations on the bike here, so that means that in recent years we have managed to improve even on tracks that are difficult for us.”
A good start is half the battle …
“It went like it did at Assen. We were fast straight away - he continues - Even if in the morning I only took a few laps, we realised that we needed to improve. We made some changes to the electronics and took a step forward, but there is still work to be done. I would like the bike to turn better and find a bit more traction, but I am not worried because I know we can do it.”
Iannone does not think that some riders preferred not to risk.
“We are not far off the race fast lap from last year. I don’t think there is anyone who was not pushing - he says - I don’t know why the Yamahas are struggling, but I think they will be back to being competitive and we also have good chances.”
For Andrea things are going the right way, even if it is not a walk in the park lapping on the Sachsenring with the asphalt below 20°C.
“The asymmetrical tyre helps. The tyre is right and it’s the temperatures that are wrong - he jokes - I hope they rise because now when I approach turn 11 I start to soil my leathers. It’s hard to find the courage to go into it strong. Just at that point I am losing 3 tenths.”
He does not use the same colourful expressions as his teammate, but Andrea Dovizioso agrees with the analysis.
“When you see a lot of crashes in the same point, like what happened today and in recent years, inevitably you are conditioned by it - he explains - You hold out a bit of margin, especially in the race. The fear is there and then there are those who decide to risk more and those who decide to risk less. Higher temperatures would definitely help to manage that spot better.”
Dovi is pleased with the way the day went, although he is aware that the work has only just begun.
“After the crashes in the morning, a lot of riders lowered their aggressiveness - he continues - I have good speed, but I do not think that the times today are much of an indicator. My feelings, despite the positive start, are still not perfect: I would like to have more confidence in the front and I am struggling to turn the bike.”
