Late crash relegates Bautista to 7th on Motegi grid but confidence still high for dry race

Alvaro Bautista finally had chance to ride at Motegi this afternoon after the whole of free practice yesterday and this morning was cancelled due to bad weather. In a single qualifying session of 75 minutes the Spanish rider was able to get a good feeling for the track in wet conditions but unfortunately as the track dried he suffered a crash at the most inopportune time, missing out on a second row start as a result.

Alvaro Bautista (7th 1’55”135) “I had a really good feeling for the bike during the session this afternoon, so it was a shame about the crash, because for sure it has cost me a better starting position. We were on a good lap when I ran a little bit off line in one corner and onto a particularly damp patch. Anyway, these things happen and I am still confident that in dry conditions tomorrow we can have a good race.”

Fausto Gresini “Alvaro’s crash was a real shame because he was on a great lap and maybe even the front row was within reach today. He was fast throughout the session and a better grid position would have been important for tomorrow. Anyway, he feels confident on the bike and confident in his potential so that’s what is important now.”

Source: Gresini Racing