Qatar – QP1 MotoGP – Grip problems for Capirossi and Bayliss

Loris Capirossi concluded today's timed tests with the 12th time, but hopes to improve tomorrow when, for the official qualifying tests, the track should guarantee more grip and traction. In the meantime, the Italian driver, still slightly limping due to the fracture in his right foot suffered in Motegi, is trying to make the most of all his experience to make it to the Doha track.

“When you have little grip you have to try to put pressure on the footrests to increase it, but I still have some problems, especially in the left corners – explained the Italian rider – The track wasn't bad this afternoon, even if it seemed faster yesterday, when the 'I saw it for the first time with the scooter. The sand is a problem, especially when you go off the line: there the grip is really minimal. However, the track is improving and so is the bike: if it continues like this, we'll be fine for tomorrow."

A mistake made during the qualifying lap cost Troy Bayliss some positions on the provisional grid for the Doha Grand Prix, who finished 15th. The Ducati Marlboro Team rider is nevertheless confident for the following two days.

“At least I don't have to worry about the rain coming for tomorrow's qualifying!” - said Troy, who debuted on the Losail circuit with a new Suomy helmet, with decidedly Australian colors - “This morning I felt like I was riding on the water, you have to be really careful here. But in the afternoon it was better, although not yet great. So far I'm quite satisfied, but during the qualifying lap I took a second and a half in the last split. It's hot, but it's bearable: you just need to drink a lot throughout the day."

Ducati Press