It was a satisfying Friday in Qatar for Fabio di Giannantonio. He came in 2nd in Free Practice 1 and 4th in pre-qualifying, laying down the foundation for continuing a weekend in the scuffle with the best, backed by a better physical condition and some valuable tips.
"I was really fast this morning while, in the afternoon, even though we were missing something, I still had a good lap. But I wasn't that happy after the session. I was expecting more, and the feeling on the bike wasn't great, that's why we decided that we'll go back to the configuration of free practice one. However, it's only Friday, I'm in the Q2, and we're close to the leaders."
Making a prediction about Saturday, the rider from Rome stated with conviction: "I expect a boxing match-style qualification because, looking at the data, every Ducati rider does well in a different part of the track. We'll all push, and I don't think anyone can really make a difference."
From pure performance, to feedback on the race pace, the VR46 rider explained: "In my opinion, after the change made in free practice two, I was the one worse off over the distance. But, going back to this morning's bike, I think we can recuperate."
There was a guest of honor in the yellow garage today: Valentino Rossi: "Seeing him is always a great pleasure and also has a certain effect. When he advises you on something, it's like he's been on the track with you, he understands right away and, with him, you can work on riding details, and that allows you to make a difference, since he points out aspects you didn't notice, and that's great. Vale is an incredible talent and he manages to make simple what's difficult, if only because of his very analytical way of explaining. Consequently, when you put his directions into practice, you're facilitated."
The 26-year-old rider isn't only reassured by the presence of the Doctor but also by his new found physical form. "I've been okay on the bike, and I've had zero problems so far. On the contrary, in the cold, I started feeling the fatigue and the pain in my shoulder, but I think I can be at my best in the race."
Finally, he gave his an opinion on the tires. "The soft seems to be favored but, for now, no one has accumulated enough laps to be sure that it can last the whole race on Sunday. Clearly, it gives more performance and grip, but we don't know for how long."