First Moto2 pole position for Julian Simon at Japanese GP

Mapfre Aspar Julián Simón will start the Grand Prix of Japan after picking up his second pole position of the season today, backing up his pace from free practice. The threat of rain this morning subsided in the afternoon and the conditions were perfect for the grid shootout, which saw a host of challengers for pole position but none could keep pace with Simón, who secured top spot with three flying laps at the end of the hour.

Simón has unfinished business here at Motegi, having just missed out on 125cc victory last year, and he is keen to open his account in the Moto2 class, especially after three consecutive second places. His second pole of the season, following that of Indianapolis last month, make him a favourite for Moto2 success at Motegi.

1st Julián Simón 1.53.008 (18 laps): “I like Motegi and we have been able to show here more than ever what good form we are in. We still have to be cautious because the race is tomorrow. Hopefully we can round the weekend off with a win, which would be a massive boost for myself and the team. Whether or not it happens I am feeling good and ready to keep working hard. The bike is getting better and better and we are adapting to it too so it all helps to make us faster. Our pace is good and my feeling couldn’t be better so tomorrow I’ll be giving it everything. I think our biggest rival tomorrow will be Toni although you can’t rule out Iannone, who I am sure will get a good start and be up there in the lead group. They say it might rain but I’m not worried because I tend to go well in the wet. Either way, we have to keep our feet on the ground and wait to see what happens tomorrow.”

Source: Mapfre Aspar Team