First-lap crash ends Bautista’s Mugello race early, investigation by race direction rules out penalty

Team GO&FUN Honda Gresini rider Alvaro Bautista’s Italian Grand Prix lasted just three corners today, the Spanish rider coming into contact with Valentino Rossi as both riders crashed out. It was a real shame for the rider and for the team, who were competing in their home race today.

Alvaro Bautista (DNF) “There is not much I can say really. Unfortunately in turn three I made contact with Valentino and we both crashed out of a race that was very important for both of us. Valentino and I have watched the incident back together in race direction and it was just a racing incident that leaves us both with a bitter taste in the mouth, but neither of us is to blame. I was on the inside and it is very difficult to see a rider on the outside from there. He was taking a slightly different line and that’s why we came together. It’s a shame, because I felt good on the bike and it’s a positive result. These things happen, but we have to forget about it and try to think about the next race.”

Fausto Gresini “Alvaro’s race only lasted a few hundred metres today, so there is not much to say about it. Unfortunately it was a racing incident that we didn’t want and leaves a bitter taste for both Alvaro and Valentino. I am disappointed, because the Italian Grand Prix is a very important race for us and a lot of people are here to support us. It’s a real shame, but this is racing. Now we need to stay calm, think about the next race and put this behind us.”

Source: Gresini Racing
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