Besides Johann Zarco, Andrea Iannone also capitalised on the smash-up between Dovizioso, Pedrosa and Lorenzo to finish on the podium. In fact, The Maniac bested Danilo Petrucci in the final sprint, confirming his third place from two weeks ago in America. This was the first time in his career being on the podium twice in a row.
Therefore, the Jerez result could have a determining weight with the rider market thrown into the mix.
“It is not easy to choose – the Italian rider commented – My intensions are to continue with this team, although it is not such a given. I say that because have important options, unlike others think, given the fact that I don’t do much advertising. It is not easy. On my part and on Suzuki’s part, the intention to continue together is there, but that is not what I find pressing. The important thing is to grow and be competitive.”
Attention then shifts to the race
“It was nice throughout the race – Andrea stated – Unfortunately, I made a mistake before the start, namely relying on the hard tyre. In fact, I’m sorry I didn’t put the medium on the rear because I had the pace to stay with the leading group – he analysed – In spite of this, I am happy anyway with the result.”
As for the smash-up between the two Ducati riders and Pedrosa, The Maniac does not offer an opinion.
“I haven’t had a chance to see the incident – he pointed out – I’m very sorry for them, whereas those of us behind were lucky.”
In the race finale, he had to reckon with Petrucci’s Ducati.
“Danilo and I were both at the limit – he remembered – I am enthusiastic about being in form and having the right confidence with the Suzuki. The bike is improving – he advised – Unfortunately, I did not exploit its full potential. In fact, with the right tyre choice, we could have been closer to the leaders.”
Andrea then expounds, although a certain confidence is clear on his face, because the gap behind the best is narrowing
“Here in Jerez I lost a lot in acceleration, also struggling with a lot of spinning – he analysed – Unfortunately, I am still unable to perform as well as the Honda and Ducati, so I struggle more, maybe forcing in braking or going through corners.”
Once again, Marc outshone the competition and The Maniac makes no bones about complimenting him.
“Marc is particularly in form, but this weekend I was not too far behind him – he pointed out – Obviously, he is a difficult rider to beat, but not impossible. I think that with time, we’ll be able to make a play for it and battle for the win.”
Now his mind is on Le Mans
“I will head to the next race with the same sensations as always – he concluded – We need to keep going in this direction, aware of our tools and our work.”