Late crash doesn’t affect Simon’s satisfaction with 4th position

Intense summer heat welcomed the Moto2 riders to Sachsenring today as the German Grand Prix got underway with track temperatures of 55ºC contributing to another crash-strewn session in the intermediate class. The first free practice was largely dominated by Spanish riders, including Mapfre Aspar man Julián Simón, although a late charge from Simone Corsi saw the Italian finish with the best time.

Simón led the way after fifteen minutes but his determination to do well at a circuit where he took 125cc victory last year led to a series of mistakes. He ran off track at the end of the straight with 20 minutes remaining and then crashed in turn four just a few laps from the end. Luckily he escaped unhurt and is hopeful of battling for pole position tomorrow. Mike Di Meglio, also a winner here in the minor category, made constant progress on board his Suter machine and on the final lap of 32 he set a best time of 1’26.966, which was good enough for twelfth overall.

4th Julián Simón 1.26.758 (24 laps): “It was a very positive first day for us because the bike performed well for the whole session I tend to be comfortable at this track and I was able to push hard from the start. I maybe put the soft tyres on a little late to go for a good time. As far as the crash is concerned I was pushing hard and lost the front – even though I tried to save it the rear came around and threw me off. I hurt my neck a little but I think I’ll be fine to ride tomorrow. The objective tomorrow is to have two good sessions and qualify on the front row because the start is going to be madness on Sunday.”

Source: Team Aspar