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MotoGP, Petrucci: "Sad about qualifiers, optimistic for the race"

Danilo doesn't like the third row: "It was important to start out front to save tyres and strength. We'll work to find the 1% I am lacking"

MotoGP: Petrucci: "Sad about qualifiers, optimistic for the race"

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Danilo Petrucci had one goal clearly in mind: qualifying in the top positions in order not to lose time in the early laps of the race overtaking, which is always counterproductive for the tyres. Unfortunately, the mission failed in Buriram and the 9th spot on the grid is exactly what he was trying to avoid.

I cannot be pleased with these qualifiers - he admitted - I was aiming for the second row and I thought even the first row was possible. In the practice sessions I was always in the top 5 and in FP4 I demonstrated very good pace with used tyres. In qualifying, instead, I made two mistakes on as many flying laps.”

The Pramac rider takes the blame, but his Ducati is still not perfectly dialled in.

I am using a balance with a lot of load on the front and for me it is difficult to brake hard because the front wheel tends to lock up - he explained - Even on the tight turns I find it difficult to turn the bike.”

However, the disappointing result in qualifying is not getting Danilo down.

We’ll work to find that 1% that I am still lacking - he assured - I am rather optimistic for tomorrow, but at the same time I am sad about my starting position. The third row could prove to be a problem, because it is always important to have as few riders as possible ahead of you in order to save tyres and energy. It is really very hot, and tomorrow will certainly be one of the hardest races of the year.”

Translated by Jonathan Blosser
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