Jordi Torres On Superb Form Takes 12th On Motegi Grid

A succession of dramatic crashes marked qualifying for the Grand Prix of Japan this afternoon as the Moto2 riders went in search of the limit at Motegi. For all those that went beyond it many managed to find it – 22 riders in all qualifying inside last year’s pole record. This year the honour went to Marc Márquez even though Thomas Luthi and Andrea Iannone made strong late challenges, suggesting a close battle in tomorrow’s race.

MAPFRE Aspar rider Jordi Torres is just seven races into his Moto2 World Championship adventure yet today he made his mark on the category with the eleventh fastest time. The Spaniard has taken to the Motegi circuit like a duck to water and today he secured his best grid position so far with a lap just eight tenths off pole position. Jordi is also the second fastest Spaniard behind Marquez and has the race pace to challenge for a similar result tomorrow, which would secure his first championship points.

11th Jordi Torres 1.52.949 (19 laps):
“We are very happy because this circuit has been good for us ever since yesterday morning. We have been able to work well, without pressure, and the team is getting a better understanding of what I need to be fast with every day that passes. I really have to thank them for all their hard work because that is what is behind this progress. We still need to work out how to pull a couple of tenths out of our sleeves at that crucial moment when you need them but our rhythm is good and will be our main weapon tomorrow. If I can get a good start and nothing untoward happens over the opening laps we can repeat this result tomorrow. All I am thinking about now is getting a strong start and hanging in there for the opening few laps. To see me name so far up the order is a nice confidence boost before the race.”

Source: Aspar Media