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Moto2, Pasini: "We want a podium before the season's out"

The Italtrans rider: "At the Sachsenring experience proved fundamental, qualifying is my Achilles' heel"

Pasini: "We want a podium before the season's out"

It became something of a lottery draw, when the rain ended up conditioning the Moto2 race at the Sachsenring. Each time a rider took the race lead, after just a few corners he'd hit the ground. But Johann Zarco didn't make any mistakes, ultimately winning the race. Mattia Pasini also did well, finishing fourth, his best result thus far in the Moto2 class, and one that he himself puts down to his level of experience.

How big a part did experience play in Germany?

“I think it was fundamental, given that the track was very slippery. Also, there were two or three points where it was easy to crash. Those who took a risk, made a mistake and crashed. I chose to be patient and in the end I was able to bring home this fourth place finish, which boosts our confidence”.

Did you think it would be something of a different race?

“let's say that I was feeling quite competitive and in the wet I had the right feeling. In qualifying I wasn't as strong as I'd hoped, but avoided taking any risks during the race”.

2016 marks your return to Moto 2. How much has it changed?

“A great deal, believe me. Before, it didn't take much to be quick, but now a good result is something that takes a lot of work. I think it's impossible to get on a Moto 2 and win the first race you complete. It takes a year of work to know the bike and have the right feeling with the team. Then you can start to set important goals”.

What's been the biggest hurdle up until now?

“Qualifying, I'm still struggling unfortunately. I think we're doing well in terms of pace, I'd say top ten, but we still have a lot to do in terms of the flying lap. As a result, we're playing catch-up after starting further back on the grid."

 After Assen you took a step forward.

“That's true, we changed our approached in terms of our work method and this immediately brought results. This result means I'm more relaxed going into the second part of the season and can rest a little easier over the holidays. We've understood which path to take and I'm pleased, because I'm with the right team at the right time”.

After fourth comes a podium. Is that the goal?

Sure, I want to get there by the end of the season, but mainly want to be more consistent. As I've said in the past, my aim is top five and we must try to achieve that at every race. We have chance to do so and can succeed”.

Now there's a month's break.

“We have some holiday time but we don't stay away from the bikes, also because it's essential to keep up the training. On Saturday we'll meet up to ride and spend the day together”.

The next race is in Austria. A new track for everyone.

“It's a new experience, but I had chance to see it during the Formula 1. It appears to be a very fast track, the kind I like, so we hope to be competitive”.

Translated by Heather Watson

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