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MotoGP, Aleix Espargarò: I'll fight to start up front

The Aprilia rider aims for the front two rows: "we have to improve in qualifying"

MotoGP: Aleix Espargarò: I'll fight to start up front

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The debut appearance by the 2017 RS-GP was one to remember, but Aprilia is already focusing on the next challenge. The second race of the MotoGP season, taking place at the Argentinian track of Termas de Rìo Hondo, is a new test bench at which to confirm the significant progress that the Italian bike has already made.

The new RS-GP proved competitive in the Qatari race, effectively managing both traction and performance and allowing Aleix Espargaró to finish close to the leading group, in sixth place after staging a fantastic recovery. Now it needs to improve in qualifying, in order to start from further up the field. In the first race, Aleix did very well to play catch-up but a good grid position would increase his chances of being able to aim for important results.

For both of the Aprilia Racing Team Gresini riders, the Argentinian race will serve as an important test. While Aleix aims to consolidate his Losail performance, Sam Lowes, a rookie in the category, hopes for a positive weekend after a touch season opener.

“After the good race in Qatar, I can't wait to get back on track in Argentina - explains the Spaniard - I really like the track and it suits my riding style. I hope to find the best possible set-up for the race, but at the same time I'd also like to be able to fight for a good position in qualifying".

“I'm pleased we can get straight back on track, especially in Argentina - echoes Sam Lowes - I like the track and reached the podium last year. Qatar wasn't the start I wanted, the strange conditions didn't help my debut. This weekend, I hope to make a good start, as a team we should take Aleix's good results as a reference as we work to continue to improve”.

 

Translated by Heather Watson
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