Alex Rins on the Jerez podium with 2nd place finish, DNF for Joan Mir

Some 75,000 Spanish fans filled the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto to witness the 300th race of the modern-day MotoGP era. Alex Rins and Joan Mir had work to do from their 9th and 12th place grid spots, but both enjoyed good starts.

Alex Rins began fighting for the Top 6 by the end of the first lap, slotting in between the two factory Ducatis, and just three laps into the race he had already set a fastest lap. After a short battle with Dovizioso he began to close in on the Yamaha battle in front of him. Making swift work of passing both Viñales and Morbidelli, the young Spaniard suddenly found himself in second place following the retirement of Quartararo. Alex kept up a very strong and consistent pace, pulling away from those behind him and holding 2nd place until the finish line. This excellent result sees him move into 2nd in the championship, just 1 point from the title lead.

Joan Mir had a good start, he put himself behind Rossi and progressed up the field during the race, holding 10th place for much of the 25-lap race. Whilst in 9th place, and very close to the group in front of him, Joan went down at Turn 13. A disappointing end, especially as he reported feeling very confident with the bike. He is thankfully uninjured.

Monday will see Team SUZUKI ECSTAR take part in the one-day test at Jerez circuit, where the Factory Riders will be joined by test rider Sylvain Guintoli.

Alex Rins
“It’s incredible to get a win and then a 2nd place. I feel very happy; this race was really difficult and starting on the third row made it harder. I gave 100% and I knew that my race pace could be close to Marc’s, so I planned to try and get a good start and go towards the front. The Spanish fans were amazing today, I could see Peluqui corner full of fans and it gives me a real boost every lap. I want to keep up this consistency and I hope for another good finish in Le Mans.”

Joan Mir
“I’m disappointed that I didn’t finish the race, because I had good potential this weekend, but racing is like this. I was happy with my feeling, and when I was catching the group in front I felt good. I really like Le Mans and I hope I can do a great race there and get the result that I know I’m capable of.”