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It is no mystery that Bagnaia is banking a lot on Buriram. He cannot do without it, with three GPs still to run and 20 points to make up to Martin, he is obliged to leave Thailand closer in the standings to his rival. The first day of practice was positive (Pecco was 3rd in FP1 and 4th in pre-qualifying), but he also had a few more hiccups than expected.
"This morning went very well, and also in the afternoon I got off to the right start, but then I unfortunately had a small problem on one of the two bikes that caused us to be behind schedule - explained the world champion - The second bike had a set-up that I was not comfortable with and I tried to adapt it with the time left. Just before the time attack, I tried on the fly a setting that worked better, a small change that helped me."
Were you satisfied with the one lap?
"I went pretty well, I was able to make a good step forward despite not finishing a perfect lap. The balance is positive, although it was a bit of a troubled Friday."
Compared to Martin at what level do you see yourself?
"I don't know, I see myself strong compared to everyone, not just Martin. Jorge had a slightly quieter afternoon than I did and he was able to do a good job on both the medium and hard tire. He's definitely ready for the race."
Can you say Buriram is a friendly track?
"I got confirmation, this track suits my riding style better than Phillip Island. Last year Jorge won here and he is fast, but I am definitely closer to him."
Is there any way to have fun in such a tight championship finish or is there just pressure?
"For me it's been like that since the beginning of the season, during the weekend I'm only interested in working for the race. Right now I don't feel anything different."
Where do you still need to improve?
"I can brake very hard, I just lose a little too much in Turn 4 and don't do the third sector well."
