MotoGP | GP Qatar Day 1: Petrucci, “KTM nervous, but we can improve”

MotoGP 2021 GP Qatar KTM Tech3 Factory Racing – Danilo Petrucci is not entirely satisfied with the first day of free practice for the Qatar Grand Prix, the first stage of the 2021 MotoGP.

The Losail track proved to be very difficult for the KTMs which are quite far from the top, but "Petrux" at least has the consolation of being "in line" with the other riders from the Mattighofen company, despite having ridden for only 4 days the RC16. Here's what the former Ducati rider from Terni had to say.

Statements Danilo Petrucci GP Qatar MotoGP Day 1

“Unfortunately we are far from those in front, but I'm in line with the other KTM riders, we could say common misfortune half joy, but I like to find the solution, this is my focus. We're still looking for the basic set-up, I've been riding the KTM for a few days and I need to adapt it to my size. I lose a lot in the penultimate and final corner, where there is a big acceleration and then a nice braking with another acceleration immediately after. I lack stability, the bike is nervous, I have to be able to calm it down."

Statements Danilo Petrucci setup KTM GP Qatar MotoGP Day 1

“This track is not favorable for the KTMs, but I don't want to use this as an excuse, I would like to find the solution to be faster. I haven't spoken to the other KTM riders (Binder, Oliveira and Lecuona, ed.) but there are points on the track where I'm faster than them, while as mentioned I lose in the final part.”

Statements Danilo Petrucci goals Qatar GP MotoGP Day 1

“We are working hard, I don't know if we will be able to obtain good results this or next Sunday, but then more favorable tracks such as Portimao and Jerez will arrive where we can do well. Not testing this winter certainly had an impact, I would have liked to ride in Jerez or Sepang.”