Tough qualifying in scorching conditions leaves Elias frustrated
After yesterday’s first opening day the LCR Honda racer Toni Elias made several set-up changes to the front geometry and rear suspension of his RCV but could not translate his hard work in a brilliant performance today at San Marino and Riviera di Rimini GP qualifying session finishing 17th (1’36.167).
The Spaniard, who was hoping for a further improvement on the asphalt where he already experienced positive results in the premier class, had to deal with rear grip issue in a hot closely contested 60-minute qualifying session which saw Stoner setting a fastest lap time of1’33.138.
Toni Elias: “I am very frustrated and I can not believe I will start from the last spot on the grid on the circuit where I achieved good results in the past 4 years. This morning we have found a little adjustment which helped me to drive out of the corners and in this afternoon session we have been trying to improve rear suspension and chassis set. Basically we have been trying to improve the weight transfer loading the rear tyre to chase the correct temperature but we could not achieve what we were expecting and I am not comfortable with our overall package. Tomorrow I must take a good start trying to follow the group because I do not want to race alone because it’s gonna be very tough.”
Source LCR Honda