LORENZO RETURNS TO THE PODIUM AND BARBERA CONTINUES TO PROGRESS
Jorge Lorenzo got back on the podium in Qatar with a second
place finish in a race that took place in temperatures of
36 degrees, with the track temperatures hitting 48 degrees.
The FORTUNA HONDA rider, who was back in action after serving
a one-race suspension in Malaysia, dedicated his fourth podium
of the season to his chief mechanic whose father died this
weekend. For his part, Hector Barbera took another forward
step forward as he continues his adaptation to his 250 bike.
The Valencian rider suffered particularly during the race
as the hot air got through his visor on the straight and damaged
his eyes.
Jorge Lorenzo
2nd position. Championship: 8th, with 118 puntos.
“I am tired. It was a very hard race today and I could
not relax at any moment as I wanted to try and push Stoner.
He pulled two seconds on me at the start and in the end it
was too much to get back. The wind affected me quite a bit
and I had problems with the front end which meant riding was
more tiring than normal, but there’s no point making
excuses. I always want to win, but circumstances in races
don’t let me dominate as much as I can in qualifying.
It’s important after my suspension to get back on the
podium. I want to dedicate my second position to Guido, my
chief mechanic, who lost his father three days ago and is
having a hard time.”
Héctor Barberá
7th posición. Championship: 9th, 98 puntos.
“I am feeling better on the bike every time I ride
it. This Honda is more demanding if you want to push it hard
and I am very nervous at times; during the season I have found
it hard, but today I am happy. I got a bad start and got caught
in no man’s land and so I just tried to enjoy myself.
I tried to treat it like a qualifying session and every lap
I managed to reduce my time, got more confidence and began
to enjoy myself. I am satisfied because it was something new
for me this race and I did not want it to end. It’s
positive, but I’ve still got a long way to go before
I am ready to try and win races.”
Dani Amatriaín, Team Manager Fortuna Honda
de 250cc.
“We have got to be very happy. Jorge rode a great race.
Stoner was very strong, but it was important for Jorge to
gain more experience and finish races which will be important
for the future. Hector is at that stage as well and his good
result today confirmed his potential.”
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